Pesto egg toast is a yummy and simple breakfast! With creamy eggs paired with fresh basil pesto on crispy toast, it’s a fun twist to start your day right.
Who doesn’t love a little green goodness on their plate? I enjoy adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for an extra treat. It’s so quick to make, I often whip it up on busy mornings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Choosing rustic or sourdough bread adds great texture. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free bread or even a hearty rice cake for a lighter option.
Eggs: Large eggs are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter meal, use egg whites or substitute with tofu for a vegan version.
Pesto: I recommend homemade basil pesto for the freshest flavor. If you can’t find basil, try arugula or spinach pesto. Store-bought options work well too, but check for good quality.
Olive Oil or Butter: Olive oil is great for a Mediterranean touch, but feel free to use butter if you prefer a richer flavor. Coconut oil can also be a good alternative if you like a hint of sweetness.
How Do You Get the Perfect Runny Yolks?
To achieve those perfect runny yolks, cooking the eggs properly is key. Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and be patient.
- Crack the eggs gently onto the pesto-covered toast to keep them intact.
- Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the steam and cook the whites thoroughly while keeping the yolks runny.
- Watch closely, as they take only about 2-3 minutes to reach the right consistency.
If you want a firmer yolk, just cook for a minute or two longer. Enjoy your pesto egg toast! It’s a delightful way to kick off your day.
Pesto Egg Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 slices of rustic or sourdough bread
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1-2 teaspoons olive oil or butter (for frying)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pesto egg toast takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes toasting the bread and frying the eggs, and then it’s ready to enjoy! Quick, easy, and oh-so-tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Bread:
Begin by lightly toasting your slices of rustic or sourdough bread in a toaster, or you can place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. You want them nice and brown, so keep an eye on them!
2. Spread the Pesto:
Once your bread is toasted, take it out and spread about 1 tablespoon of your basil pesto evenly over each slice. This delicious green layer is what makes this toast so flavorful!
3. Heat Up the Skillet:
Next, drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil or melt butter in a non-stick skillet set over medium heat. Let the oil heat up a little before you add the eggs.
4. Add the Eggs:
Carefully crack each egg directly onto the pesto-covered bread in the skillet. Make sure the egg whites nicely spread over the pesto; this will help them cook properly!
5. Cook the Eggs:
Cook the eggs for about 2-3 minutes, until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny. If you like, cover the skillet with a lid to help the tops cook through. Keep checking to find your preferred doneness!
6. Season Everything:
Once your eggs are cooked just the way you like, sprinkle a pinch of salt and some freshly ground black pepper over each egg for that extra burst of flavor.
7. Serve It Up:
Gently transfer your beautiful pesto egg toasts to a plate. If you want to add a little touch, garnish them with some fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor!
8. Enjoy!
It’s time to dig in! Serve your pesto egg toast immediately and enjoy every delicious bite. Perfect for a quick breakfast, brunch, or snack any time of the day!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rustic or sourdough bread works great, you can use whole grain, rye, or even gluten-free bread for a different twist. Choose your favorite type to match your taste and dietary preferences!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can! Substitute the eggs with tofu or chickpea flour scramble. Just season them to taste and follow the same cooking method. Use a dairy-free pesto to keep it vegan-friendly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the components separately. Keep the pesto egg toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Other Toppings to My Pesto Egg Toast?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can add sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a kick. Customize it to your liking!
