These Mini Bell Pepper and Tomato Oat Muffins are a delightful, savory treat packed with fresh vegetables, feta, and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light snack, these muffins are both nutritious and delicious. The combination of juicy tomatoes, mini bell peppers, and creamy cheeses makes each bite a flavor-packed experience.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Active Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 mini bell peppers, chopped
- 6 small tomatoes, chopped
- 100 g feta cheese (3.5 oz), crumbled
- 1 cup oatmeal (90 g)
- 3 eggs
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (60 g), shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Vegetable oil (for greasing muffin dish)
- Additional mozzarella cheese for topping
Directions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Chop the mini bell peppers and small tomatoes into small pieces.
- Crumble the feta cheese and set aside.
- Mix the Muffin Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped bell peppers, tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, 1 cup of oatmeal, and 3 eggs.
- Add ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of dried garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme.
- Mix all the ingredients well until thoroughly combined.
- Let the Batter Rest:
- Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the oats to absorb some moisture and soften.
- Prepare the Muffin Dish:
- Grease a muffin dish with a bit of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Fill each muffin cup with the batter, about ¾ full.
- Top each muffin with a little extra mozzarella cheese.
- Place the muffin dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool slightly before removing them from the muffin dish.
- Enjoy your savory oat muffins warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a light lunch.
- Pair with Greek yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.
Cooking Tips:
- Cheese Variations: Try using cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Veggie Options: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more vegetable variety.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats: Provide fiber and help keep you full longer.
- Tomatoes and Bell Peppers: Rich in vitamins A and C, promoting good health and immune function.
- Cheese: Offers calcium and protein for strong bones and muscles.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: These muffins are suitable for a vegetarian diet.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats to make the recipe gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (per muffin, assuming 8 muffins):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 180mg
Storage:
- Store leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Versatile and Easy: Quick to prepare and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheese is irresistible.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with veggies and whole grains for a balanced meal.
Conclusion:
These Mini Bell Pepper and Tomato Oat Muffins are a wholesome, flavorful option for those looking for a quick and easy recipe. With a satisfying combination of cheese, vegetables, and oats, these muffins are both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for any time of the day, they are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make these muffins vegan?
- Yes, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use vegan cheese.
- Can I freeze the muffins?
- Yes, freeze the muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
- What other vegetables can I add?
- You can add spinach, kale, or grated carrots for extra nutrition.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese can be used for a different flavor.
- Are these muffins suitable for kids?
- Yes, they are kid-friendly and a great way to sneak in vegetables.
- How can I make them spicier?
- Add chopped jalapeños, red chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.
- What can I serve with these muffins?
- Serve with a fresh salad, soup, or yogurt dip.
- Can I use quick oats instead of regular oats?
- Yes, quick oats will work, but the texture may be slightly different.
- How long do they last in the fridge?
- They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I add nuts or seeds?
- Absolutely! Chopped nuts or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds can add a nice crunch.