Imagine starting your day with a dish that perfectly blends the richness of French cuisine with the comfort of home-cooked goodness. Our Savory Parmesan Pain Perdu with Poached Eggs and Greens is not just a meal; it's an experience that promises to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your brunch game to new heights! With its crispy, golden-brown bread soaked in a creamy Parmesan mixture, topped with perfectly poached eggs and fresh greens, this recipe is the ultimate indulgence. Whether you're hosting a weekend gathering or simply treating yourself to a luxurious breakfast, this dish is sure to impress. Ready to dive into the details? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 4 slices of thick bread
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mixed greens
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, half of the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Cut thick bread slices into triangular or rectangular shapes, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size.
- Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for 30-45 seconds on each side to absorb the liquid thoroughly.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, lightly coating with olive oil.
- Place soaked bread slices onto the heated surface and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, sprinkling remaining Parmesan cheese on top while cooking.
- While bread is cooking, prepare poached eggs by bringing a pot of water to a gentle simmer with a splash of vinegar.
- Crack each egg into a small ramekin, then carefully slide into the simmering water, cooking for 3-4 minutes until whites are set but yolks remain runny.
- Arrange mixed greens on serving plates, drizzling lightly with olive oil and seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Place cooked Parmesan pain perdu on top of the dressed greens, and carefully transfer poached eggs onto the bread.
- Finish by garnishing with additional freshly ground black pepper and a final drizzle of olive oil before serving immediately.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture and flavor, opt for thick slices of bread like brioche or challah. These types will absorb the egg mixture beautifully while achieving a crispy crust.
- Soak with Care: Don’t rush the soaking process! Allow each slice of bread to soak for 30-45 seconds on each side to ensure they’re flavorful and moist without falling apart.
- Control the Heat: Cooking at medium heat is key to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. If the heat is too high, the outside may burn before the inside cooks through.
- Perfect Poached Eggs: Adding a splash of vinegar to the simmering water helps the egg whites coagulate, resulting in a neater poached egg. Remember to crack the eggs into a ramekin first for easier handling.
- Fresh Greens Matter: Use a mix of your favorite greens—arugula, spinach, or baby kale add a delightful peppery flavor and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the finishing touches! A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil elevate the dish and enhance its visual appeal.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the dish right after plating. The combination of warm bread, creamy eggs, and fresh greens is best enjoyed fresh!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 180mg
