Savory Spinach and Feta Muffins with Parmesan and Cherry Tomato Garnish

Spinach and Feta Muffins Recipe

Spinach and Feta Muffins offer a wholesome and flavorful breakfast or snack that perfectly balances the goodness of fresh greens and the tangy richness of feta. These savory muffins are packed with nutritious ingredients, making them a great choice for both kids and adults. With the mild sweetness of cornmeal and the earthy flavor of spinach, they provide a satisfying and delicious start to the day. For those who prefer an alternative to feta, paneer can be used as a substitute. These muffins can be garnished with parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs, offering extra layers of flavor and a lovely presentation.

Cuisine: Continental
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients:

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Serves: 7-8 muffins

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a muffin tin with 7-8 muffin liners or grease it with butter to prevent the muffins from sticking.

2. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup buttermilk, melted butter, and the whisked egg. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to form a smooth, creamy base for the batter.

3. Add Flavorful Ingredients: To the same bowl, add the nutmeg, garlic, crumbled feta cheese (or paneer), chopped onion, and fresh spinach leaves. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly, ensuring the spinach is well incorporated into the mixture.

4. Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle in the baking soda, baking powder, salt, sugar, and red chili flakes (or black pepper powder). Since feta cheese is quite salty, be cautious with the amount of salt added. Adjust based on your taste preference.

5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually fold in the whole wheat flour and cornmeal, mixing until just incorporated. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy. If it feels too dry, add more buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time, until the batter reaches the desired consistency.

6. Fill the Muffin Molds: Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 of the way full. This allows the muffins to rise perfectly without overflowing.

7. Bake the Muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of the muffins. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, the muffins are ready.

8. Cool and Garnish: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs of your choice. This adds an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful touch to the muffins.

9. Serve and Enjoy: These savory Spinach and Feta Muffins are best enjoyed warm, making them an ideal choice for breakfast or a snack. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a truly satisfying treat.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Options: While feta adds a sharp, tangy flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for a milder taste.
• Additional Herbs: For extra flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the batter.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and replace the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk mixed with lemon juice.
• Freeze for Later: These muffins freeze well, so you can make a batch ahead of time. Simply let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy the delicious fusion of savory flavors and wholesome ingredients with this delightful Spinach and Feta Muffins recipe. Perfect for a nutritious breakfast or a savory snack that the whole family will love!