Savory Zucchini Muffins

These Savory Zucchini Muffins are a perfect blend of fluffy, moist texture and robust flavor. Packed with grated zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs, these muffins are ideal for a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or as a savory side dish for soups and salads. The combination of zucchini and cheese provides a balance of moisture and richness, while the herbs and spices enhance the flavor, making these muffins both delicious and versatile.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil (or melted butter)
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk
  • 1 cup (120g) grated zucchini (with excess moisture squeezed out)
  • ½ cup (60g) grated cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (optional)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven is heating, prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or lightly greasing each cup. This will prevent the muffins from sticking and make them easy to remove once baked.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). The garlic powder adds a subtle depth of flavor, making these muffins even more savory. Whisk everything together to ensure the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which will help the muffins rise properly.

Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed. Then, stir in the olive oil (or melted butter) and milk. The oil adds moisture and richness to the muffins, while the milk ensures a soft crumb. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and fully combined.

Combine the Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be sure not to overmix the batter, as this can result in dense muffins. The batter should still have some lumps, which is perfectly fine.

Add the Zucchini, Cheese, and Herbs

Next, gently fold in the grated zucchini, cheddar cheese, parsley, and dill. Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible before adding it to the batter; too much liquid can cause the muffins to become soggy. The cheese will add a creamy richness, while the fresh herbs elevate the flavor with a light, aromatic touch.

Fill the Muffin Cups

Using a spoon or scoop, divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. This will allow the muffins to rise without overflowing, giving them a nice dome shape when baked.

Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The tops should be slightly firm and crispy, with a soft, moist interior.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. This resting time will help them set and make them easier to remove. Afterward, transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. These savory zucchini muffins are delicious when served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

This recipe yields about 12 muffins. The approximate nutritional values per muffin are:

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 11g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 250mg

Perfect for Any Occasion

These savory zucchini muffins are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:

  • Breakfast: Pair them with eggs or avocado for a hearty, balanced breakfast.
  • Lunch or Dinner: Serve them as a side to soups, salads, or stews.
  • Snack: Enjoy them as a nutritious snack during the day, or pack them for a quick bite on the go.

Storage and Freezing Tips

  • Storage: Keep these muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: These muffins freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes.

With their perfect balance of savory flavors, moist texture, and cheesy goodness, these Savory Zucchini Muffins are bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch, a weekday snack, or to accompany a meal, these muffins are sure to please!