These Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slabs are a delicious and hearty snack that brings together the subtle sweetness of zucchini with the rich flavor of cheese. The muffins are soft and fluffy, with the perfect balance of savory and comforting, making them an excellent addition to any meal or a stand-alone treat.
Whether you’re serving them for brunch, a party, or just as a healthy snack, these muffin slabs are sure to impress. The combination of grated zucchini and melted cheese creates a beautiful texture that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, they’re easy to make, quick to bake, and full of wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups zucchini, grated
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1 ½ cups self-raising flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
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2 eggs, lightly beaten
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½ cup olive oil
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½ cup milk
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a square baking tin.
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In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, self-raising flour, baking powder, cheese, and oregano.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, and milk.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and smooth the top with a spatula.
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Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Why Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab Works as a Snack or Part of a Meal
One of the reasons the Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab works so well as both a snack and part of a meal is its balance of flavors and textures. The zucchini adds moisture to the muffins, preventing them from being too dry, while the cheese contributes richness and depth. The use of self-raising flour ensures that the muffin slab rises well, creating a light, airy texture, while the egg mixture binds everything together, ensuring the slabs hold their shape and are easy to slice.
This dish is not just about flavor; it’s also about versatility. You can eat it on its own as a savory snack, pair it with a light salad for a wholesome lunch, or serve it alongside soups and stews for dinner. The beauty of the Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab lies in its adaptability—it’s simple enough to make for a quick snack but hearty enough to serve as a side dish to complement a main meal.
Health Benefits of Zucchini in the Muffin Slab
Zucchini is often hailed for its numerous health benefits, and adding it to this muffin slab recipe boosts its nutritional value. Zucchini is low in calories and high in water content, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or stay hydrated. It’s also a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and folate. These nutrients contribute to overall health, supporting everything from immune function to skin health.
The high water content in zucchini also helps to balance the richness of the cheese, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy. Furthermore, zucchini is a great source of antioxidants, which help to protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. When incorporated into this muffin slab, zucchini provides a burst of nutrition without overpowering the other flavors, making it a great way to sneak in more vegetables.
Why It’s Perfect for Meal Prep
Another reason the Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab is so popular is its suitability for meal prep. This dish can be made in bulk and stored for later use, making it a convenient option for busy individuals or families. Once baked, the muffin slabs can be sliced into individual portions and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. They can also be frozen for longer storage, allowing you to enjoy them at a later time without the hassle of preparing them from scratch.
Meal prepping with this recipe offers many benefits. It allows you to have a healthy, savory snack on hand whenever hunger strikes, reducing the temptation to reach for less nutritious options. Additionally, the Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab is filling and provides a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it an ideal choice for a balanced meal or snack.
Customizing Your Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab
One of the great things about this recipe is that it can be easily customized to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. For those looking to add more flavor, fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary can be incorporated into the batter. If you prefer a sharper taste, you can experiment with different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar, feta, or Parmesan.
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, this recipe can be made with gluten-free flour, ensuring that you don’t miss out on this savory treat. For a dairy-free version, simply replace the cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative, or skip it altogether for a lighter version.
The beauty of the Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab is that you can make it your own. Whether you want to add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers, or switch up the seasonings to match your preferences, this dish is easy to adapt to suit your taste.
Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab as a Versatile Party Snack
Planning a party or a gathering? The Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab makes for a perfect addition to your snack table. It can be sliced into small squares, allowing guests to sample a bite-sized portion. The savory flavor and satisfying texture are sure to appeal to a wide variety of tastes. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a more formal dinner party, or a family celebration, this muffin slab fits in seamlessly with the rest of the spread.
Moreover, it pairs well with a variety of dips and spreads, from tangy tomato salsa to creamy avocado dip. You can even serve it alongside a fresh salad or a selection of other finger foods, offering a balanced assortment of flavors and textures for your guests to enjoy.
Pairing Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab with Drinks
This muffin slab isn’t just a great food option; it also pairs well with a variety of beverages. For a casual snack, try serving it with a cold glass of iced tea, lemonade, or a sparkling water with a hint of lime. If you’re serving it as part of a meal, consider pairing it with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a crisp rosé. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a refreshing cucumber-infused water or an herbal iced tea will complement the savory flavors of the muffin slab nicely.
Conclusion: A Savory Snack or Side Dish for Any Occasion
In conclusion, the Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab is a delicious, versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or paired with other foods to create a complete meal. Its balance of savory flavors, along with the nutritional benefits of zucchini, makes it an excellent addition to any meal plan or snack rotation. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy week of meal prep, serving it at a party, or simply enjoying it as a comforting treat, this muffin slab is sure to satisfy.
With its easy preparation and endless customization options, it’s no wonder that the Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab has become a favorite in many households. Give it a try and discover how this simple dish can elevate your meals with its irresistible taste and texture.