Zucchini muffins offer a savory twist on a typically sweet treat. Infused with Mediterranean flavors like olive, tomato, and oregano, these muffins are perfect as a snack or a light meal. Accompanied by a tangy sauce, they’re sure to delight your taste buds. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
For the Muffins:
- 3 small zucchinis, grated
- Olive oil, for sautéing
- Salt, to taste
- 10-12 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 10-12 olives, pitted and sliced
- 3 eggs
- 100 ml (1/2 cup) milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Oregano, to taste
- Caraway seeds, to taste
- Garlic, minced, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- Dill, chopped, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a muffin tin with olive oil or line with muffin cups.
- Grate the zucchinis into a colander, sprinkle with a little salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Squeeze out the excess water.
- In a skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the grated zucchini and cook for a few more minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Mix the Muffin Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the cooled zucchini mixture, cherry tomatoes, olives, oregano, and caraway seeds.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder. Mix until just combined. Season with salt to taste.
- Bake the Muffins:
- Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- While the muffins are baking, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, ketchup, and chopped dill in a small bowl. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serving:
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.
- Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature, accompanied by the tangy yogurt sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the muffins as a snack, appetizer, or light meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the grated zucchini is well-drained to prevent the muffins from becoming too moist.
- Adjust the seasoning and herbs to your preference.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C.
- The muffins provide a good source of protein from the eggs and yogurt.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe is vegetarian.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Storage:
- Store any 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:
- The muffins are easy to make and full of Mediterranean flavors.
- They are versatile and can be enjoyed as a snack or a light meal.
- The tangy yogurt sauce complements the savory muffins perfectly.
Conclusion:
These savory zucchini muffins with Mediterranean flavors are a delightful twist on the traditional muffin. Easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients, they are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them with the tangy yogurt sauce for a delicious and satisfying treat. Bon appétit!