Mini Bell Pepper and Tomato Oat Muffins

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Let the Batter Rest:
    • Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the oats to absorb some moisture and soften.
  4. Prepare the Muffin Dish:
    • Grease a muffin dish with a bit of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
  5. 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.
  6. 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:

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:

  1. Can I make these muffins vegan?
    • Yes, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use vegan cheese.
  2. Can I freeze the muffins?
    • Yes, freeze the muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
  3. What other vegetables can I add?
    • You can add spinach, kale, or grated carrots for extra nutrition.
  4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    • Yes, cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese can be used for a different flavor.
  5. Are these muffins suitable for kids?
    • Yes, they are kid-friendly and a great way to sneak in vegetables.
  6. How can I make them spicier?
    • Add chopped jalapeños, red chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.
  7. What can I serve with these muffins?
    • Serve with a fresh salad, soup, or yogurt dip.
  8. Can I use quick oats instead of regular oats?
    • Yes, quick oats will work, but the texture may be slightly different.
  9. How long do they last in the fridge?
  10. Can I add nuts or seeds?
    • Absolutely! Chopped nuts or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds can add a nice crunch.