If you have been searching for a comforting and crispy snack that’s as vibrant as it is delicious, the Yellow Squash Tots with Greek Yogurt Dip Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden, bite-sized tots are packed with delicate yellow squash, melted cheddar, and just the right seasoning to keep every mouthful irresistible. Paired with a creamy, tangy Greek yogurt dip, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side that feels homemade but tastes like a gourmet treat. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these tots are the perfect combination of texture, flavor, and wholesome goodness that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, simple ingredients is the first step to making these tots shine. Each component plays a vital role—from the tender yellow squash that brings moisture and subtle sweetness, to the sharp cheddar adding richness and a golden crust, plus the fragrant parsley that brightens every bite.
- 3 small yellow squashes or zucchini: The star vegetable, providing a tender, mild base with beautiful color.
- 1 egg: Acts as the binding agent to hold the tots together just right.
- 4 oz grated cheddar cheese: Adds gooey, melty goodness and a full-flavored punch.
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs: Essential for structure and a crispy exterior after baking.
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped: Gives a subtle sweetness and depth to the tots.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mild kick without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors harmoniously.
- Ground black pepper: To taste, for that gentle heat and complexity.
- Optional parsley, 2 to ¼ cup finely minced leaves: A fresh herbal note for brightness.
- â…“ cup unsweetened Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the tangy, dreamy dip.
- 2 tsp lemon juice: Adds zesty freshness to the dip.
- 1 tsp finely minced parsley or dill: Offers a lovely herbal lift in the yogurt dip.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: Provides additional savoriness to the dip.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances the tart and creamy flavors perfectly.
- ¼ tsp pepper: Just a touch more spice for the dip.
How to Make Yellow Squash Tots with Greek Yogurt Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Yellow Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or greasing it lightly with olive oil. Grate the yellow squash finely using a grater or food processor, then sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt and mix it lightly. Place the grated squash in a colander or wrap it in cheesecloth and let it rest to draw out moisture.
Step 2: Squeeze Out Excess Liquid
Use your hands to firmly squeeze the liquid from the squash. This step is crucial because removing excess moisture ensures your tots will be crispy rather than soggy. You should get about 1 cup of liquid for every pound of squash. Discard this liquid before moving on.
Step 3: Combine Tot Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained squash, egg, grated cheddar, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley if using. Stir everything together until the mixture is sticky and well incorporated. If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs a tablespoon at a time to reach the right consistency for shaping.
Step 4: Shape the Tots
With damp hands to prevent sticking, form the squash mixture into small tot shapes, about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons each. Pro tip: dipping your hands in cold water between shaping helps keep the mixture from clinging to your fingers and makes the process more enjoyable.
Step 5: Bake the Tots
Arrange the tots evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. They should be beautifully golden on top and lightly browned underneath when done. After baking, let them rest for 5 minutes before carefully lifting them off the baking sheet to keep them intact and not sticky.
Step 6: Make the Greek Yogurt Dip
While the tots are baking, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, minced parsley or dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This dip is creamy yet fresh and tangy, the perfect balance to the warm, savory tots. Serve it chilled alongside the hot tots for dipping bliss.
How to Serve Yellow Squash Tots with Greek Yogurt Dip Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and flavor, sprinkle the tots with a bit of extra finely chopped parsley or fresh dill right before serving. A light dusting of smoked paprika or even a few lemon zest curls adds a beautiful pop of color and subtle flavor contrast that will wow your guests.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, green salads or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad to keep things light and summery. For heartier meals, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded plate full of texture and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family gatherings, consider serving the tots on a wooden board with small dipping bowls of additional sauces like spicy sriracha mayo or a cool herb ranch. You could also skewer the tots on wooden sticks to create fun, handheld appetizers that everyone can grab and enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They keep their flavor well but will lose some crispiness, so reheating properly is key to enjoying them again.
Freezing
If you want to make these tots in advance, you can freeze them before baking. Arrange the shaped tots on a tray and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time and enjoy fresh-from-the-oven taste anytime.
Reheating
Reheat tots in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 8–10 minutes to restore their crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it makes the tots soggy. The dip can be served cold or brought to room temperature again before serving.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Absolutely! Yellow squash and zucchini are quite similar in texture and moisture. You can easily substitute zucchini in this recipe with equally delicious results.
What type of cheese works best for the tots?
Cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds great flavor, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a mild pepper jack for a little extra kick.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Simply swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the tots safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I make the dip dairy-free?
Yes, you could switch out the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative such as coconut or almond-based yogurts. Adjust seasonings to taste to maintain the tangy freshness.
How many tots does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes about 24 tots, perfect for sharing as an appetizer or serving as a satisfying snack for a small group.
Final Thoughts
Making the Yellow Squash Tots with Greek Yogurt Dip Recipe is such a rewarding kitchen adventure. The combination of golden, crispy tots with a bright, creamy dip is unbeatable. Whether you’re introducing yourself to a new way to enjoy summer squash or looking for a healthy yet indulgent twist on classic tots, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your home. Don’t wait to try it—you’ll wonder how you ever snacked without it!
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Yellow Squash Tots with Greek Yogurt Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 tots
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and crispy Yellow Squash Tots baked to golden perfection, served with a refreshing Greek yogurt dip. This healthy twist on traditional tots uses fresh yellow squash, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs, making for a perfect appetizer or snack that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Tots
- 3 small yellow squashes or zucchini (about 1–1.5 lb)
- 1 egg
- 4 oz grated cheddar cheese (about ½ cup)
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ medium onion (finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons – ¼ cup finely minced parsley leaves
Yogurt Dip
- â…“ cup unsweetened Greek yogurt
- 2 tsp lemon juice (from about ½ lemon, or to taste)
- 1 tsp finely minced parsley (or dill, or ½ teaspoon dried parsley or dill)
- ¼ tsp garlic powder (or 1 small clove garlic, minced)
- ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent the tots from sticking.
- Prepare the squash: Grate the yellow squash using a fine grater or food processor. Add ½ teaspoon salt and mix well. Transfer the grated squash to a colander or cheesecloth and let it sit while you prepare other ingredients to allow excess liquid to drain.
- Drain the squash: Use your hands to firmly squeeze out all the liquid from the grated squash. Expect about 1 cup of liquid per pound of squash. Discard the liquid to prevent soggy tots.
- Mix tot ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed squash, egg, grated cheddar, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, ground black pepper, and optional minced parsley. Mix thoroughly until the mixture forms a sticky, thick paste. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs gradually.
- Shape the tots: With damp hands (dip in cold water between handfuls to prevent sticking), form small tots using about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each tot.
- Arrange and bake: Place the shaped tots evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the tots are golden on top and lightly browned on the bottom. Remove from oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before transferring to avoid sticking.
- Prepare the yogurt dip: While the tots bake, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced parsley or dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well to create a flavorful dipping sauce.
- Serve: Serve the warm yellow squash tots with the Greek yogurt dip on the side for a delightful combination of flavors.
Notes
- Draining the squash thoroughly is essential to prevent soggy tots; you can use a cheesecloth for best results.
- Dipping your hands in cold water before shaping the tots helps prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- The Greek yogurt dip can be customized with herbs like dill or parsley according to your preference.
- This recipe is great as a healthy appetizer or side dish.
