Savory Veggie and Cheese Muffins

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup olive oil (or melted butter)
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk

Add-Ins:

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1/2 cup grated zucchini (squeezed to remove excess water)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach or kale
• 1/3 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• 1/4 cup grated carrot
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, olive oil, yogurt, and milk until smooth.

Step 4: Fold in the Veggies and Cheese

1. Add the shredded cheese, zucchini, spinach, bell peppers, carrot, and herbs to the wet ingredients.
2. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender muffins.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
2. Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Savory Muffins

1. Squeeze Excess Moisture: For veggies like zucchini or spinach, squeeze out the water to avoid soggy muffins.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and texture of the muffins.
3. Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until the ingredients are combined to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
4. Customize Your Add-Ins: Experiment with other vegetables, cheeses, or even cooked bacon or ham.

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