Zucchini Tots

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Preheat the oven to 400°F. Coat a large baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Step 2.

   Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible.

3. Step 3.

   In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, beaten egg, grated pecorino, panko, crushed garlic, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.

4. Step 4.

   Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. With your hands or a small spatula, shape each mound into a small log about 2 inches long.

5. Step 5.

   Bake the tots for 10 minutes, then remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully flip each tot with a spatula. Return to the oven and continue baking until golden brown and crisp, about 10 to 12 minutes more (20 to 22 minutes total).

6. Step 6.

   Let the tots cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before serving. For make-ahead: refrigerate cooled tots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, place on a foil-lined toaster oven tray and toast on a dark setting until hot and crisp.