Savory muffins

Savory Muffins with Cottage Cheese, Onion, and Red Pepper

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6 muffins

Looking for a tasty and easy-to-make appetizer? These savory muffins with cottage cheese, onion, and red pepper are the perfect choice! Packed with flavors and textures, this simple recipe will quickly become your favorite for parties, brunches, or simply as a healthy snack.

A brief history of savory muffins
Although muffins are often associated with sweet versions, savory muffins have an equally rich tradition. They are versatile and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from cheeses to vegetables. Their origins are rooted in home cooking, often used to make the most of available ingredients.

Essential ingredients
To prepare these delicious savory muffins, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons of cottage cheese (ideally well-drained)
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg (preferably at room temperature)
- Salt, to taste
- ½ teaspoon of sweet paprika (or hot, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon of fresh dill, chopped (or dried if fresh is not available)

Practical tips about ingredients
- Cottage cheese: Choose a fresh, low-fat cottage cheese for a healthier appetizer. If you want a more intense flavor, try cottage cheese with herbs.
- Red onion: This adds a touch of sweetness, but if you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute it with green onion.
- Red pepper: Not only is it tasty, but it's also packed with vitamin C. You can experiment with yellow or green peppers to change the flavor and appearance a bit.
- Dill: It's an excellent choice for adding a fresh flavor. If you don't have dill, you can use parsley or basil.

Preparation technique
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by chopping the red onion and red pepper into small cubes. Make sure they are cut evenly to bake uniformly.

2. Mixing the composition: In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese, chopped onion, and pepper. Mix with a spatula or wooden spoon. Add the beaten egg, salt, paprika, and dill. Continue mixing until all ingredients are well combined.

3. Filling the molds: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease the muffin molds with a little oil or use paper liners. Fill each mold with the mixture, leaving a little space at the top to allow the muffins to rise.

4. Baking: Place the molds in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden and firm to the touch. You can check with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, the muffins are ready!

5. Cooling and serving: Let the muffins cool for 5-10 minutes before removing them from the molds. Serve them warm or at room temperature, alongside a green salad or a yogurt dip for a pleasant contrast.

Serving suggestions
These savory muffins are excellent served as an appetizer, but they can also be a delicious breakfast alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Additionally, you can pair them with tzatziki sauce or a spicy tomato sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Possible variations
To add a personal touch, try experimenting with different types of cheese or adding olives, spinach, or mushrooms to the mixture. Each variation will bring a new dimension of flavor to your muffins. You can also turn this recipe into a vegan version using soy cheese and chia eggs.

Nutritional benefits
These muffins are rich in protein thanks to the cottage cheese and egg, while the red pepper provides a generous amount of vitamins and antioxidants. They are also relatively low in calories, with about 150-200 calories per muffin, depending on the exact ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, low-fat cottage cheese is an excellent choice for a healthier version.

2. How can I store the muffins?
These muffins can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave before serving.

3. Can I freeze the muffins?
Yes, the muffins can be frozen. Make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in a freezing container. They can be kept for up to 2 months.

4. What drinks pair well with these muffins?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent options to complement these savory muffins.

These savory muffins with cottage cheese, onion, and red pepper are not only a delicious choice but also a wonderful way to add a touch of creativity to your kitchen. Experiment with the ingredients and enjoy every bite!