Savory Vegetable and Ham Muffins Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano.

3. Mix in the Cheese and Ham:

• Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped ham, making sure they are well distributed throughout the flour mixture.

4. Add the Vegetables:

• Gently fold in the bell peppers, onions, and grated zucchini. If using fresh parsley or chives, add them now.

5. Combine the Wet Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the milk and olive oil (or melted butter), and mix well.

6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy.

7. Fill the Muffin Tin:

• Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

8. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool and Serve:

• Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Success:

• Moisture Control: Squeeze excess moisture from the grated zucchini to prevent the muffins from becoming too soggy.
• Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Cheese Varieties: Try using different types of cheese, like Swiss or feta, for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions:

• Breakfast: Enjoy these muffins with a side of fruit or yogurt.
• Brunch: Serve alongside a fresh salad or as part of a brunch spread.
• Snacks: Pack them in lunchboxes or enjoy as a quick snack throughout the day.

Storing and Reheating:

• Storing: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
• Reheating: Reheat muffins in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Conclusion:

These Savory Vegetable and Ham Muffins are a delightful and versatile addition to your recipe collection. Packed with wholesome ingredients and full of flavor, they’re perfect for a quick meal or snack on the go. Enjoy the savory combination of cheese, ham, and vegetables in every bite!