If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and unique breakfast, pesto eggs are a must-try! This recipe takes the classic fried egg to the next level by cooking it in the aromatic, herby pesto goodness. Paired with a drizzle of honey and served on a toasted English muffin, it’s a meal that feels fancy but takes minutes to whip up. Let’s get cracking!
Method
Heat the Pesto
Begin by adding 15g of your favorite pesto to a non-stick frying pan. Place the pan over medium heat, allowing the pesto to warm up gradually. As it heats, you’ll notice the oil in the pesto beginning to release and glisten, which enhances both the flavor and aroma. It’s essential to maintain medium heat to prevent the pesto from burning, as its oil content can cause it to brown too quickly if overheated. Stir gently with a spatula to ensure even warming and to prevent sticking.
Cook the Eggs
Once the pesto is hot and aromatic, carefully crack two eggs directly into the pan. Allow them to settle into the pesto, which will infuse the eggs with its rich, herby flavor as they cook. Depending on your preference, you can leave the yolks runny for sunny-side-up eggs, which adds a creamy texture when broken. If you prefer your yolks cooked through, gently flip the eggs using a spatula to make them over-easy. Be mindful during this step—handling the eggs too roughly might break the yolks prematurely.
Toast and Assemble
While the eggs are cooking, toast an English muffin until it turns a golden brown. Timing is key here; to ensure the muffin stays warm, toast it just before the eggs are ready. The crispy texture of the toasted muffin provides a perfect contrast to the soft eggs and pesto. Once toasted, place the muffin halves on a plate, ready for assembly.
Add a Touch of Sweetness
After your eggs have reached the desired doneness, carefully transfer them from the pan onto the toasted English muffin halves. While they’re still hot, drizzle a small amount of honey over the top. This subtle sweetness complements the savory, herbaceous flavor of the pesto, creating a well-rounded taste experience. You can adjust the amount of honey according to your preference, but a light drizzle usually offers the perfect balance.
Pesto Eggs: A Simple and Delicious Breakfast
Equipment
- Non-stick frying pan
- Spatula
- Toaster (for the muffin)
Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 15 g pesto your favorite variety
- Squeeze of honey
- 1 English muffin toasted (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Heat the Pesto.Add the pesto to a non-stick frying pan and heat over medium heat. Let it warm up until the oil in the pesto begins to release and glisten.
- Cook the Eggs.Carefully crack the eggs into the pan with the hot pesto. Cook them to your preferred doneness: leave the yolks runny for sunny-side-up or flip them for over-easy.
- Toast and Assemble.While the eggs are cooking, toast your English muffin until golden.
- Add a Touch of Sweetness.Once the eggs are ready, transfer them onto the toasted muffin and drizzle a small amount of honey over the top. The sweetness of the honey beautifully complements the savory pesto.
Notes
- Keep the Heat Medium: Avoid overheating the pesto as it can burn quickly due to the oil content.
- Handle Eggs Gently: Be careful while cracking the eggs to prevent breaking the yolks.
- Toast Timing: Toast the English muffin just before the eggs are ready so everything stays warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or avocado for added nutrition.
- Serve on a bed of greens like arugula or spinach for a light breakfast salad.
- Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Fun Fact
Did you know that pesto originates from Genoa, Italy? Traditionally made with basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan, and pine nuts, pesto’s name comes from the Italian word “pestare,” which means “to pound” or “crush.” It was originally made using a mortar and pestle!
Conclusion
Pesto eggs are a simple yet indulgent way to start your day. The combination of savory pesto, rich eggs, and a hint of honey on a toasted muffin is nothing short of heavenly. Whether you’re enjoying this dish on a lazy Sunday morning or prepping a quick weekday breakfast, it’s guaranteed to be a winner. Give it a try, and let me know your favorite twist—maybe a dollop of ricotta or some crushed nuts for texture? 🍳✨