Muffins

Savory muffins with olives, ham, and cheese - a perfect treat for lunch boxes

If you are looking for a quick and delicious recipe for lunch boxes or simply want to pamper your family with a hearty snack, these savory muffins with olives, ham, and cheese are the ideal choice. These little delicacies are not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile, as they can be enjoyed both warm and cold.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients:

- 50 g olives (preferably green or black, depending on preferences)
- 100 g pressed ham, diced
- 2 fresh eggs
- 100 g grated cheese
- 1 packet baking powder (approximately 10 g)
- 200 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons oil (sunflower or olive oil, depending on preferences)
- 12 cheese curds (for added flavor)
- 200 g flour
- 12 muffin liners

Brief history of the recipe:

Savory muffins have become increasingly popular in recent decades, being a perfect alternative to sweet ones. They are highly appreciated in various cultures for their flexibility; they can be filled with a multitude of ingredients, from vegetables to meat and cheese. This simple recipe perfectly combines the salty taste of ham with the creamy texture of cheese and the intense flavors of olives, offering you an extraordinary dish that can be customized to your liking.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. In the meantime, prepare all the ingredients: chop the olives into small pieces and dice the ham. Grate the cheese and make sure you have all the other ingredients at hand.

2. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the two eggs with a whisk until frothy. Add the milk and oil, mixing continuously to obtain a homogeneous mixture.

3. Adding the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Make sure to mix them well to avoid lumps. After that, gradually add the flour mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients, gently mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon.

4. Including the flavorful ingredients: Once the mixture becomes homogeneous, add the chopped olives, diced ham, grated cheese, and cheese curds. Gently mix to evenly distribute the ingredients.

5. Filling the muffin liners: Place the muffin liners in the muffin tray and fill each liner with about 2/3 of the mixture. This will allow the muffins to rise beautifully during baking.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the muffins bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and pass the toothpick test. When the toothpick comes out clean, the muffins are ready!

7. Cooling and serving: Let the muffins cool in the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a rack to cool completely. You can serve the muffins warm or at room temperature, and for added flavor, you can accompany them with a yogurt sauce or cheese dressing.

Practical tips:

- Ingredients: Use high-quality olives for a more intense flavor. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to change the flavor profile of the muffins.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the ham with sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Storing the muffins: These muffins store well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven to regain their fluffy texture.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the result may vary.
2. How can I make the muffins less salty? Use low-sodium ham or reduce the amount of cheese.
3. Can I add other ingredients? Absolutely! You can try fresh herbs, such as dill or basil, for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional benefits:

These muffins are rich in protein due to the eggs and cheese, while olives provide healthy fats and antioxidants. They also contain carbohydrates from the flour that offer long-lasting energy.

Serving suggestions:

These savory muffins go wonderfully with a fresh salad or a fruit smoothie for a balanced lunch. They can also be enjoyed as an appetizer at a party or gathering with friends, paired with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail.

So, don’t hesitate! Try this recipe for savory muffins with olives, ham, and cheese, and enjoy every delicious bite! These snacks will bring smiles and satisfaction, whether you serve them at the table or pack them for the office. Enjoy your meal!