Vegan Oatmeal and Zucchini Bake (Air-Fryer or Oven-Baked)

There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a perfectly crispy, golden-brown finger food—especially when it’s packed with veggies, flavor, and nostalgia. These Vegan Veggie Fingers are crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and completely plant-based. Whether you’re whipping them up as a snack, lunchbox filler, or party platter addition, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

🌿 Why You’ll Love These

  • Wholesome ingredients – Think mashed potatoes, grated zucchini, chopped herbs, and spices.
  • Kid-friendly – Great for picky eaters and little hands.
  • Versatile – Perfect for air frying, baking, or shallow-frying.
  • Vegan & gluten-free options – Easily adaptable for dietary needs.

📝 Ingredients

  • 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
  • 1 small zucchini, grated and squeezed dry
  • 1 small carrot, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro)
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional for cheesy flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 2–3 tablespoons flour or breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • Olive oil spray (for crisping)

🔪 Instructions

  1. Prep the Vegetables
    Boil and mash your potatoes. Grate your zucchini and carrot, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
  2. Mix it All Together
    In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, zucchini, carrot, green onions, and all the seasonings. Add flour or breadcrumbs to bind the mixture. You want a pliable dough that holds shape when rolled.
  3. Shape the Fingers
    Take portions of the mixture and shape them into small cylindrical sticks or sausage-like rolls.
  4. Cooking Options:
    • Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Lightly spray the veggie fingers with oil and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
    • Oven: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the fingers on a lined tray, spray with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
    • Pan Fry: Add a small amount of oil to a pan and cook the veggie fingers over medium heat until crispy and browned on all sides.

🧄 Serving Suggestions

  • Dip in vegan mayo, sweet chili sauce, or hummus
  • Serve alongside a fresh salad or stuffed into pita wraps
  • Add to lunchboxes with fruit and crackers

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Swap potatoes with sweet potatoes for a twist.
  • Add cooked lentils or chickpeas for protein.
  • Spice it up with chili flakes or smoked paprika.

🥦 Nutrition (Per 2 pieces, approx.)

  • Calories: 110
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 3g
  • Carbs: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g