Low-Fat Cheese And Basil Biscuits
Light and flavorful cheese and basil biscuits with a crispy exterior and tender interior, perfect as a snack or side for casual gatherings and cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cut in the margarine with a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Combine the skim milk, shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese, and chopped fresh basil in a separate bowl.
- Add the milk mixture to the flour mixture, stirring just until the dry ingredients are moistened.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider substituting whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be used, although it may increase the fat content. Fresh basil can be replaced with dried basil in a pinch, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon. These biscuits are best when baked fresh, but can also be served with a side of Savory Potato Slices.
Serving Suggestions
These biscuits make a great addition to a light lunch or brunch. Pair them with a fresh salad or serve alongside a bowl of soup for a comforting meal. They also complement well with a cheese platter or can be enjoyed with a spread of your choice. For a sweet ending, consider following with Fruit Dessert Squares.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warm. They can also be microwaved for about 15-20 seconds each, though the texture may be less crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Cheese And Basil Biscuits contains roughly 92 calories, with 6g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (78% of the Daily Value), calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1225mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When ready to bake, simply drop spoonfuls of the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor, you can substitute cheddar with other reduced-fat cheeses such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack. Each will give your biscuits a unique taste while keeping them lower in fat.
How can I enhance the flavor of these biscuits?
To boost the flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra kick. These additions can turn your biscuits into a delightful savory treat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).