Savory muffins with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and asparagus

Savory Muffins with Olives, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Asparagus

Who doesn't love a savory appetizer muffin, bursting with unique flavors and textures? These savory muffins with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and asparagus are not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile. Perfect for impressing guests or turning a simple weekend into a culinary celebration, these muffins are an excellent choice for any occasion.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12 muffins

Basic ingredients:
- 3 medium eggs
- 400 g sour cream
- 100 g smoked meat (or any other preferred type of meat)
- 4 sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil flavored from the sun-dried tomatoes
- 3 asparagus spears in brine
- 7-8 olives (preferably green olives for a stronger taste)
- 50 g mozzarella
- 3 fresh basil leaves
- 4-5 sprigs of fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 5 tablespoons of breadcrumbs (for a crunchy texture)
- ½ packet of baking powder
- A pinch of thyme
- A pinch of sweet paprika
- A pinch of Himalayan pink salt

Useful tips about ingredients:
- Sun-dried tomatoes add intense flavor and a touch of sweetness to the muffins, and the oil they were preserved in is an ingredient that will enrich the mixture. Choose quality tomatoes for a worthy result.
- Olives add not only taste but also a splash of color. You can opt for green or black olives, depending on your preference.
- Asparagus is a seasonal ingredient but can also be used from a can. Make sure it is well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.
- Substitute mozzarella with feta cheese or any other creamy cheese for an interesting variation.

History of savory muffins:
Savory muffins are a perfect example of the fusion between pastry tradition and savory dishes. Their origins are often found in Mediterranean culinary styles, where fresh ingredients and strong flavors blend harmoniously. These muffins are not just a simple snack; they represent a way to gather family and friends around the table, turning each bite into a memorable experience.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Cut the sun-dried tomatoes into small cubes and slice the olives. The asparagus can be cut into sticks about 2-3 cm long. Also, finely chop the basil and parsley leaves.

2. Mixing the composition:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. Add the sour cream and the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes. Mix with a spatula or whisk until the composition becomes homogeneous.

3. Incorporating dry ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder, breadcrumbs, thyme, sweet paprika, and Himalayan pink salt. Add the dry ingredient mixture to the bowl with eggs and sour cream, mixing well to avoid lumps.

4. Adding flavoring ingredients:
Incorporate the sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and mozzarella into the mixture. Gently mix to evenly distribute the flavors. Finally, add the asparagus, stirring lightly to avoid crushing the vegetables.

5. Preparing the molds:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease the muffin molds with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Fill the molds with the mixture, leaving some space to allow the muffins to rise during baking. Let the mixture rest for 5-6 minutes.

6. Baking:
Place the muffins in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until they turn golden and pass the toothpick test (inserted in the center of the muffin, it should come out clean).

7. Serving:
If you want an extra flavor boost, with 5 minutes before removing the muffins from the oven, you can add a little grated cheese on top for a gratin effect.

The muffins can be served warm, but they are just as delicious cold. They pair perfectly with natural yogurt, flavored tea, or even coffee, turning every meal into a true culinary experience.

Variations and combinations:
These savory muffins can be customized according to the season and preferences. You can add fresh dill, colorful bell peppers, or even a little chili for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or meat, depending on what you have on hand.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! Zucchini, carrots, or even bell peppers can add a touch of freshness.
- How can I store the muffins? They can be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container for 3-4 days. They can be easily reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Are they suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegan eggs and plant-based sour cream, but the original recipe is not vegan.

Savory muffins with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and asparagus are an excellent choice not only for their taste but also for their versatility and ease of preparation. Try them and enjoy every bite!