Pesto Egg Toast is a quick and tasty breakfast option that will make your morning brighter. It’s all about creamy eggs on crispy bread, topped with vibrant pesto!
I love making this when I want something yummy but don’t have much time. Just toast the bread, cook the eggs, and spread that lovely pesto—so easy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I recommend sourdough for its crunchy texture and tangy flavor, but any hearty bread works well. Whole grain or even gluten-free bread are great swaps if you need them.
Eggs: Large eggs are perfect for this dish. You can use medium or extra-large eggs, but cooking time may vary. If you’re vegan, consider using a plant-based egg replacer for your version.
Pesto: Homemade basil pesto shines here, but store-bought is reliable too. If you don’t have basil, try sun-dried tomato pesto or even spinach or arugula blends for a different taste!
Olive Oil or Butter: I prefer olive oil for a lighter touch. However, butter gives a richer flavor and is also a great choice. If you’re dairy-free, stick with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Egg for Toast?
Cooking eggs just right can be tricky! For runny yolks, go for sunny-side up or poached eggs. Here’s how to achieve that perfect egg:
- Preheat your skillet on medium heat to ensure even cooking.
- Add oil or butter, and let it melt without burning.
- Crack the egg(s) gently into the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until whites are set.
- For extra fluffiness, you can cover the skillet with a lid for a minute to steam the top of the egg.
- Keep an eye on the yolk – when it’s runny, it’s ready to go on your toast!
Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be cooking the perfect egg for your Pesto Egg Toast every time!
Delicious Pesto Egg Toast Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 slices of bread (sourdough or your choice)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for frying eggs)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of crushed nuts or seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes from start to finish. It’s super quick—the perfect choice for a busy morning or a tasty snack any time of day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Bread:
Start by toasting your slices of bread until they are nice and golden brown. You can use a toaster or a skillet for this. Once done, set the toasted bread aside on your plates while you prepare the eggs.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Next, place a non-stick skillet on the stove over medium heat and add the olive oil or butter. Allow it to heat until the oil shimmers or the butter is fully melted, ensuring a non-stick surface for the eggs.
3. Cook the Eggs:
Crack the eggs gently into the skillet, being careful not to break the yolks. You’ll want to cook them until the whites are fully set but the yolks are still runny, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Season them with a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Add the Pesto:
While the eggs are cooking, spread about 1 tablespoon of basil pesto on top of each slice of toasted bread. Make sure the pesto covers the toast evenly for maximum flavor!
5. Assemble the Toast:
Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, carefully place one egg on top of each pesto-covered toast. The warm egg will slightly melt the pesto, making each bite even more delicious!
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you want to add a touch of elegance, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves and crushed nuts or seeds on top. These add great texture and flavor! Serve your Pesto Egg Toast right away and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough is a great choice for its texture, you can use any type of bread you enjoy. Whole grain, rye, or even gluten-free bread will work perfectly!
What If I Don’t Have Pesto?
No problem! You can substitute pesto with other spreads like sun-dried tomato tapenade, hummus, or even avocado. Each will give a unique flavor to your toast!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep certain components ahead of time. Toast the bread and make the pesto in advance, then cook the eggs just before serving to maintain their texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover toast, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Reheat in the toaster or try a skillet, adding fresh eggs just before serving for the best taste.