Baked Feta Eggs with Tomatoes and Spinach: A Quick & Healthy Breakfast
Baked Feta Eggs with Tomatoes and Spinach is a delightful dish that combines creamy feta cheese, ripe cherry tomatoes, and vibrant spinach, all baked alongside eggs. This dish is not only vibrant and delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a comforting brunch, it takes minimal time to prepare while delivering maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy and hearty meal in no time. The combination of protein from the eggs and healthy fats from the feta promotes satiety, keeping you full and satisfied. Additionally, the tomatoes and spinach provide essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish a nutritious choice. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while starting the day off right.
Ingredients
To make Baked Feta Eggs with Tomatoes and Spinach, you will need the following ingredients:
- Feta cheese
- Eggs
- Cherry tomatoes
- Spinach
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Substitutions & Key Variations
If you don’t have some of these ingredients, don’t worry! Here are a few substitutions you can consider:
- Feta Cheese: You can replace feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
- Fresh Spinach: Kale or arugula can be used instead of spinach.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Regular tomatoes chopped into small pieces can also work well.
- Eggs: You can substitute whole eggs with egg whites for a lighter version.
- Herbs: Use thyme or oregano if you don’t have basil or parsley.
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the dish cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
In a baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center. Surround it with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, which will cook down beautifully and add great flavor.
Step 3: Season the Ingredients
Drizzle some olive oil over the top of the feta and vegetables. Season everything with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Crack the eggs gently over the feta and vegetable mixture, making sure to keep the yolks intact. This will create perfect, runny yolks when cooked.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You can adjust the cooking time based on how runny or firm you like your eggs.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Success Tips
- Temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. A hot oven helps the eggs set properly without becoming overcooked.
- Texture: Keep an eye on the eggs as they bake. If you prefer them a bit runny, check them around the 20-minute mark. Otherwise, continue baking until they reach your desired doneness.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid overcrowding the dish with too many ingredients, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
How to Serve
Baked Feta Eggs can be enjoyed straight from the dish. Serve with toast, pita bread, or a simple salad on the side. It’s versatile and can also be paired with avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Baked Feta Eggs can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quicker option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian! It’s packed with nutrients from the vegetables and eggs.
Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely! Try using goat cheese or mozzarella for a different taste if you want to explore various flavors.
How can I add more flavor?
For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like chili flakes, paprika, or Italian herbs to the dish before baking.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead. Just assemble everything in the baking dish and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free as long as you serve it without any bread or crackers.
Nutrition Notes
Baked Feta Eggs with Tomatoes and Spinach is a nutrient-packed meal, rich in protein, vitamins, and healthy fats. It’s a great way to fuel your morning, providing energy without added sugars or refined carbs.
Conclusion
Baked Feta Eggs with Tomatoes and Spinach is a delicious, easy-to-make dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. With its blend of flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try making it today, and start your day off with a healthy, satisfying meal!
Links to Related Recipes
- Mediterranean Vegetable Frittata
- Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Tomato Basil Quiche
Baked Feta Eggs with Tomatoes and Spinach
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 block Feta cheese Use a block for best results.
- 4 large Eggs Can use egg whites for a lighter version.
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved.
- 2 cups Fresh spinach Can substitute with kale or arugula.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For drizzling.
- to taste Salt For seasoning.
- to taste Pepper For seasoning.
- optional Fresh basil or parsley For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center. Surround it with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach.
- Drizzle olive oil over the feta and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper.
- Crack the eggs gently over the feta and vegetable mixture.
Cooking
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until eggs reach your desired doneness.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.