These Zucchini Cheese Muffins are savory, cheesy, and packed with fresh vegetables, making them a perfect snack, side dish, or even a quick breakfast. They are easy to make and a great way to use up zucchini.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium zucchini, grated (do not squeeze out the moisture)
- 1/4 red capsicum, finely diced (optional)
- 1 cup grated cheese (your choice of cheese)
- 2 large eggs
- Salt & pepper to taste (more seasoning as you prefer)
- 125g (1 cup) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Butter to grease the muffin tin
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and place the rack in the middle position.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper, and any other preferred seasonings until well combined.
- Add the grated zucchini, red capsicum (if using), and grated cheese. Mix well to combine.
- Add half of the all-purpose flour to the mixture and mix until combined.
- Add the remaining flour and baking powder. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Prepare the Muffin Tin:
- Grease the muffin tin with butter to prevent sticking.
- Fill the Muffin Tin:
- Spoon the zucchini mixture into the muffin tin, filling each compartment almost to the top. This recipe should make about 9 muffins.
- Bake the Muffins:
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for a few minutes.
- Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy these muffins warm with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Serve alongside a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Pair with a bowl of soup for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Cooking Tips:
- Do not squeeze out the moisture from the grated zucchini; the moisture helps keep the muffins tender.
- Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the batter for additional flavor, such as thyme, oregano, or paprika.
- Use a variety of cheeses for different flavor profiles; sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or feta are great options.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini: Low in calories and high in vitamins A and C.
- Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
- Eggs: High in protein and essential vitamins.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
Nutritional Facts (per muffin, approximate):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving to enjoy them warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
- Versatile: Great as a snack, side dish, or breakfast option.
- Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and cheese, making them both nutritious and delicious.
Conclusion:
These Zucchini Cheese Muffins are a savory and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any time of the day. Easy to prepare and bake, they are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Enjoy the cheesy goodness and the tender texture in every bite. Happy baking! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
- Yes, grated carrots or spinach would be great substitutes.
- What cheese works best for this recipe?
- Cheddar, mozzarella, or feta are all delicious options.
- Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
- Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the tin?
- Grease the tin well with butter or use muffin liners.
- Can I freeze these muffins?
- Absolutely! Freeze the muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Can I add meat to the muffins?
- Yes, cooked bacon or ham would be a tasty addition.
- How long do these muffins stay fresh?
- They stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Can I make mini muffins instead?
- Yes, just adjust the baking time to about 15 minutes.
- Is it okay to use low-fat cheese?
- Yes, but keep in mind it may slightly alter the texture.
- Can I make the batter ahead of time?
- It’s best to bake the muffins right away, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and mix them when ready to bake.