These Greek Zucchini Tots are the ultimate answer to what to do with an abundance of zucchini. Bursting with Mediterranean flavors thanks to the crumbled feta, fresh herbs, and a golden, crunchy shell, they’re a modern nod to traditional Courgette Rissoles from the Greek island of Alonnisos.
Baked instead of fried, they’re not only easier to prepare but also healthier, without compromising on that irresistible crispy texture. Paired with a refreshing minted yoghurt dip, they make for a versatile dish that fits breakfast, lunch, or your next party platter.
Full Recipe:
Zucchini Prep:
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1 lb / 500 g zucchinis
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1/4 tsp salt
Batter:
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3/4 cup scallions/shallots, finely sliced (white and pale green parts only)
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 eggs, lightly beaten
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150 g / 5 oz feta cheese, crumbled
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1/2 cup parmesan cheese (or shredded cheddar)
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1 tbsp dried oregano
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1/2 cup plain flour
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Oil spray
Minted Yoghurt (Optional):
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1 cup plain Greek yoghurt
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1/2 tbsp lemon juice
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1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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2 tsp fresh mint, finely chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.
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Grate the zucchini, place into a large colander, sprinkle with salt, toss, and let sweat for 30 minutes.
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Squeeze out excess liquid from the zucchini in batches and transfer to a bowl.
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Add all batter ingredients (except oil spray) and mix thoroughly.
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Spray two baking trays with oil. Shape heaped tablespoons of the mixture into mini tater-tot-like cylinders and place on trays.
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Spray tops lightly with oil.
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Bake for 25 minutes, rotating trays at the 20-minute mark, until golden and crisp.
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Mix minted yoghurt ingredients and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
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Serve tots with lemon wedges and minted yoghurt or tzatziki if using.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 34 kcal per tot | Servings: 35–40 tots
Introduction to Greek Zucchini Tots
Greek Zucchini Tots, also known as Courgette Rissoles in parts of Europe, are a delightful fusion of simplicity, tradition, and bold Mediterranean flavors. These golden, crispy morsels hail from Alonnisos, a picturesque island in the Northern Sporades of Greece. Known for its rustic and authentic Greek cooking, Alonnisos delivers timeless recipes that reflect the local abundance of vegetables, herbs, and dairy. These zucchini tots embody that very ethos, turning humble ingredients into something truly magical.
What makes these tots unique is not just the combination of grated zucchini, feta, and herbs, but how the mixture is transformed into crisp yet tender bites without deep frying. This recipe captures everything we love about Greek food—freshness, simplicity, and flavor—while adding a modern twist with baking instead of frying.
Greek Roots and Cultural Significance
Zucchini is a staple ingredient in Mediterranean kitchens. In Greece, it’s not uncommon to find zucchini featured in dishes ranging from stews and soups to savory pies and fritters. Known locally as “kolokithokeftedes,” zucchini fritters are a beloved meze—small shareable plates typically served as appetizers or with drinks in Greek cuisine.
Greek food culture is deeply rooted in seasonality and the philosophy of “kefi”, which refers to joy and spirit in the experience of eating. These zucchini tots aren’t just a dish—they’re an expression of hospitality. They’re often served at family gatherings, celebrations, and laid-back lunches by the seaside.
The addition of feta cheese adds a salty tang, while herbs like oregano or mint provide the freshness that’s characteristic of Greek fare. When paired with a cooling minted yogurt or tzatziki dip, the experience becomes truly authentic, offering a taste of the Aegean on your plate.
Why Bake Instead of Fry?
Traditionally, Greek zucchini fritters are shallow-fried in olive oil. However, this baked version offers several benefits. First, it simplifies the cooking process—no standing over a skillet or dealing with oil splatter. Second, it’s a lighter, healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
Baking also results in consistent crispness across each tot, especially when shaped like mini tater tots or nuggets. With a light spray of oil before baking, the exterior becomes golden and crunchy, while the interior remains moist and flavorful thanks to the grated zucchini and cheeses.
This modern adaptation respects the essence of the traditional dish while making it accessible for everyday cooking and meal prep.
Perfect Occasions to Serve Greek Zucchini Tots
One of the greatest strengths of this recipe is its versatility. These zucchini tots are more than just an appetizer—they can be the star of any meal. Here are a few ways to incorporate them into different occasions:
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Party Food or Appetizer: Serve them on a platter with toothpicks and a bowl of minted yogurt dip for a crowd-pleasing snack.
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Brunch Staple: Top them with a poached or sunny-side-up egg, and you’ve got a satisfying brunch dish.
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Lunchbox Hero: Their bite-sized shape makes them perfect for packing in kids’ or adults’ lunchboxes.
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Meatless Dinner Option: Pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome vegetarian dinner.
They’re also a hit during holidays and gatherings, especially for those looking to include vegetarian options on the table.
Pairing Suggestions and Serving Ideas
Greek Zucchini Tots shine on their own but become elevated when paired thoughtfully. Serve them with:
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Minted Yogurt Dip or Tzatziki: The creamy, tangy coolness perfectly complements the warm, cheesy bites.
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Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice enhances the flavor with a burst of acidity.
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Mediterranean Mezze Platter: Combine with olives, hummus, pita, dolmades, and grilled halloumi for a complete Mediterranean spread.
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Fresh Salads: Try them alongside a cucumber, tomato, and red onion salad dressed in olive oil and oregano for a refreshing contrast.
If you’re feeling more indulgent, they also pair well with a glass of dry white wine or ouzo for a truly Greek experience.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
Despite their indulgent flavor, Greek Zucchini Tots are surprisingly light. Each tot contains approximately 34 calories, making it easy to enjoy several without guilt. Because they are baked, they significantly reduce the amount of added fat compared to fried alternatives.
Zucchini itself is low in calories but rich in nutrients like vitamin A, manganese, and fiber. It also contains antioxidants and contributes to hydration due to its high water content. When combined with eggs and cheeses like feta and parmesan, these tots also provide a good amount of protein and calcium.
Using fresh herbs such as mint or oregano adds not only flavor but also health benefits. For example, mint is known for aiding digestion, while oregano has antimicrobial properties.
This makes the dish a smart option for those following a Mediterranean diet or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals in a fun and flavorful way.
Texture and Flavor Profile
What’s most memorable about these zucchini tots is their texture. The exterior crisps up beautifully in the oven, creating a satisfying crunch when bitten into. The inside, however, is tender and creamy, with the feta adding occasional salty bursts and the zucchini providing moisture.
The combination of herbs brings out a vibrant, aromatic undertone that doesn’t overpower. The panko breadcrumbs add body and structure, ensuring each tot holds together without being too dense.
For those who enjoy savory, cheesy snacks, these tots offer a more nuanced and refined option. They’re not greasy or overly heavy—just light, golden, and packed with flavor.
Tips and Variations
If you want to experiment with this recipe, there are several ways to tweak it while maintaining the core appeal:
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Add Fresh Herbs: Dill, parsley, or chives can add different flavor dimensions.
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Swap the Cheese: Try ricotta or halloumi in place of feta for a milder flavor.
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Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the panko breadcrumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives.
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Air Frying Option: These tots can also be cooked in an air fryer for even crispier results with minimal oil.
Storing and reheating is easy, too. You can make them ahead, refrigerate, and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their original crunch.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Every Home Cook’s Repertoire
There are thousands of zucchini recipes out there, but few manage to balance convenience, health, and indulgence as well as these Greek Zucchini Tots. They require everyday ingredients, minimal equipment, and no special cooking skills.
The ability to prepare them in bulk and reheat without loss of quality makes them a fantastic meal prep choice. Moreover, they cater to a range of dietary needs and preferences—vegetarian, nut-free, and adaptable for gluten-free diets.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy family, preparing for a party, or just looking to expand your weekday recipe collection, these tots offer a flavorful and practical solution.
Conclusion
Greek Zucchini Tots are more than just a creative way to use zucchini—they’re a testament to how traditional Mediterranean flavors can be brought into modern kitchens with ease. From their crisp golden crust to their soft and cheesy interior, every bite is a reminder of the joys of simple, wholesome cooking.
Their versatility makes them suitable for any meal or occasion, and their balanced nutritional profile means you can indulge without compromise. Add to that the easy preparation and make-ahead convenience, and you’ve got a recipe worth coming back to again and again.
So whether you’re serving them as a snack, a side, or a meatless main, these tots are sure to bring a bit of Greek sunshine to your table.