Savory Veggie and Cheese Muffins: A Wholesome, Flavorful Treat

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the cups to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This forms the dry base for your muffins.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables and Cheese

1. Prep Veggies: Grate the carrots and zucchini, chop the bell peppers, and spinach or kale.
2. Add Cheese: Stir the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan (if using) into the dry mixture.
3. Fold in Vegetables: Add the grated carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach to the dry ingredients, tossing to coat. This helps evenly distribute the veggies throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. Whisk Together: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and olive oil (or melted butter) until well combined.

Step 5: Mix the Batter

1. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the muffins dense.
2. Add Fresh Herbs: Fold in the chopped herbs for a burst of flavor.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups and Bake

1. Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
2. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
3. Cool: Allow muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Best Savory Muffins

• Squeeze the Zucchini: Excess moisture can make the muffins soggy, so be sure to squeeze as much liquid as possible from the grated zucchini.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness, but dried herbs can work if that’s what you have on hand (use about 1-2 tsp of dried herbs instead).
• Experiment with Cheese: While sharp cheddar gives a classic flavor, feel free to try other cheeses like feta or gouda for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins are perfect on their own or as a side. Pair them with a hearty soup, fresh salad, or even with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a satisfying breakfast or snack.

Nutritional Benefits

Loaded with vegetables, whole grains, and cheese, these muffins offer fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. Carrots bring beta-carotene, spinach adds iron, and zucchini offers vitamin C. Combining these with cheese gives the muffins a boost of calcium, making them both delicious and nutritious.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: These muffins freeze well. Simply place in a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the microwave or oven.