Baked Feta Eggs: A Wholesome Breakfast Delight in 35 Minutes
Short Introduction
Baked Feta Eggs is a delicious and colorful dish that brings together bright vegetables, creamy feta, and perfectly cooked eggs. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. It’s not only tasty but also packs a healthy punch with fresh ingredients.
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons. It’s simple to prepare, taking just around 35 minutes from start to finish. The combination of roasted vegetables and feta cheese creates a rich and savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the eggs. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen. With its vibrant colors and hearty texture, Baked Feta Eggs will please both your eyes and your palate.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, diced
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 8 ounces feta cheese
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup chopped baby spinach
- 4 large eggs
- Optional for topping: chopped fresh basil or fresh chives
Substitutions & Key Variations
If you’re missing any ingredients, don’t worry! Here are some substitutions you can try:
- Feta cheese: You can use goat cheese or ricotta if you prefer a different flavor.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add or replace any veggies according to your taste. Zucchini or mushrooms make great alternatives.
- Herbs and spices: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can give added freshness. For a spicier kick, use jalapeños instead of red pepper flakes.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dishes
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). If using individual ramekins, divide the tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, garlic, and feta cheese among them. Drizzle about a tablespoon of olive oil over each ramekin. If using one large dish, combine the tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and garlic in that dish, placing the feta in the center.
Step 2: Season and Bake
In a small bowl, mix the dried oregano, sea salt, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the feta and vegetables. Bake in the oven for about 25 minutes, until the veggies are soft and the feta is slightly browned.
Step 3: Add Spinach and Eggs
Once out of the oven, stir the mixture to combine and mix in the chopped spinach. Make small wells in the veggie and feta mix and crack an egg into each well. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
Success Tips
- Temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to ensure even cooking.
- Texture: For a creamier egg, reduce the baking time once you add the eggs.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid overcrowding the dish if using a large pan; if everything is too cramped, the veggies may not roast properly.
How to Serve
Baked Feta Eggs can be topped with fresh herbs like basil or chives for added flavor. Serve it with crusty baguette, toast, or pita to soak up all the delicious juices. Enjoy this dish fresh out of the oven for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will be good for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350 degrees F until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the eggs may lose their texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make Baked Feta Eggs in advance?
A: While it’s best fresh, you can prep the vegetables and feta ahead of time, and then add the eggs right before baking.
Q: How do I tell when the eggs are done?
A: The eggs are done when the whites are set but the yolks are still runny. If you prefer firm yolks, bake them for a few extra minutes.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Yes! Goat cheese or even a blend of mozzarella and parmesan can work well in this recipe.
Nutrition Notes / Equivalents
This dish is packed with protein from the eggs and healthy fats from olive oil and feta. It’s also a great source of vitamins from the colorful vegetables.
Conclusion
Baked Feta Eggs is an easy and satisfying dish that brings together fresh ingredients into a delightful meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy Sunday brunch at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results!
Links to Related Recipes
- Shakshuka: A Spiced Tomato and Egg Dish
- Greek Omelette with Spinach and Feta
- Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl
Baked Feta Eggs
Ingredients
Vegetables and Feta
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- ½ small red onion, diced
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 8 ounces feta cheese
Seasoning
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Eggs and Spinach
- 1 cup chopped baby spinach
- 4 large eggs
Optional Toppings
- to taste chopped fresh basil or fresh chives For topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide the tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, garlic, and feta cheese into individual ramekins or combine them in a large dish, placing the feta in the center. Drizzle about a tablespoon of olive oil over each.
Season and Bake
- Mix the dried oregano, sea salt, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the feta and vegetables. Bake for about 25 minutes until the veggies are soft and the feta is slightly browned.
Add Spinach and Eggs
- Stir the mixture to combine and add the chopped spinach. Make small wells in the mixture and crack an egg into each well. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking.