Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese

Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian French Dish

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese is a delightful and elegant dish that combines the richness of eggs with the tangy flavor of goat cheese and the aromatic freshness of herbs. This recipe is perfect for a sophisticated breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. It's simple to prepare, yet the result is incredibly flavorful and visually appealing. Whether you're looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this dish is sure to satisfy.

History

The concept of baking eggs with herbs and cheese has roots in various cuisines around the world, but this particular combination of fresh herbs and goat cheese with eggs is a modern twist on traditional baked egg dishes. The use of fresh tarragon and garlic adds a French flair, while the creamy goat cheese is a nod to Mediterranean influences. This recipe is a testament to the versatility of eggs and how they can be elevated with a few simple, high-quality ingredients.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of chopped mixed fresh herbs (parsley, basil, thyme, mint, tarragon)
1 clove of garlic, minced
2 tbsp of melted butter
2 tbsp of heavy cream or half-and-half
6 to 12 eggs
3 tbsp of crumbled fine goat cheese
sea salt and cracked black pepper

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 450°. Combine the herbs and garlic, then set aside.
In a glass measuring cup, mix the butter and cream together.
Place six 4- to 8 oz (227 g) ramekins or ovenproof cups on a baking sheet.
Evenly pour the butter mixture among the ramekins.
Bake in the preheated oven until the mixture is bubbly hot, about 1 to 3 minutes.
Remove from the oven. To avoid breaking the yolks, carefully crack 1 or 2 eggs into a separate cup and gently slide them into a heated ramekin.
Top the eggs with the herb mixture and crumbled cheese. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Repeat with the remaining eggs.
Return to the oven and bake for 3 to 5 minutes. The eggs should look not quite done as they will continue to cook after being removed from the oven.
Place each ramekin on a plate and serve immediately with toast.

Variations

Add sautéed spinach or kale for a green boost.
Substitute the goat cheese with feta or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
Incorporate diced tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best flavor and texture.

- Be careful not to overcook the eggs; they should be removed from the oven while slightly underdone as they will continue to cook in the residual heat.

- Fresh herbs are key to this recipe. If you can't find tarragon, feel free to substitute with other fresh herbs like chives or parsley.

- For an extra creamy texture, you can add a dollop of crème fraîche on top of the eggs before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese with a side of toasted whole-grain bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a brunch spread, consider pairing with fresh fruit, smoked salmon, and a glass of sparkling wine.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the eggs in a water bath can help ensure even cooking and a tender texture. To do this, place the ramekins in a larger baking dish and fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the ramekins before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of half-and-half and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

- If tarragon isn't available, use fresh basil, chives, or parsley for a different but equally delicious flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the herb and garlic mixture and the butter and cream mixture ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to use. This will make assembling and baking the eggs quicker and easier.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the baked eggs with additional fresh herbs and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for an elegant presentation. Serve in the ramekins on individual plates with a side of toasted bread arranged artfully.

Pairing Recommendations

A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light, refreshing rosé pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the meal nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, being careful not to overcook the eggs.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese contains approximately 200-250 calories, making it a relatively light yet satisfying meal option. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the small amount of half-and-half and the minimal carbs present in the eggs and goat cheese. The total carbohydrate content per serving is approximately 1-2 grams, making this recipe suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the eggs, butter, half-and-half, and goat cheese. These ingredients contribute to the dish's richness and satiety factor. The total fat content per serving can vary depending on the size of the eggs and the fat content of the dairy products used but expect approximately 10-15 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, and goat cheese adds additional protein to this dish. On average, each serving of Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese provides about 12-15 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-friendly meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A (from the butter and eggs), Vitamin D (from the eggs), calcium (from the goat cheese), and iron (from the eggs). The fresh herbs also contribute small amounts of various essential nutrients.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are eggs and dairy (butter, half-and-half, and goat cheese). Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should avoid this dish or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's low in carbohydrates and calories, making it suitable for various dietary preferences and goals.

Summary

Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese is a versatile and nutritious dish that combines the simple goodness of eggs with the refined flavors of fresh herbs and goat cheese. Whether you're serving it for a special brunch or enjoying it as a delightful dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its delicious taste and elegant presentation.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her quaint little cottage by the sea. Margaret was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I was always eager to learn new recipes from her.

On that particular day, Margaret invited me into her cozy kitchen and started bustling about, gathering ingredients and preheating the oven. I watched with curiosity as she cracked eggs into individual ramekins, sprinkled them with fragrant herbs from her garden, and crumbled goat cheese on top. The whole process seemed so simple yet so elegant, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

As the eggs baked in the oven, filling the air with a mouthwatering aroma, Margaret regaled me with the story of how she came across the recipe. She told me that many years ago, when she was traveling through the French countryside, she had stumbled upon a charming little café where this dish was a specialty. Intrigued by the combination of fresh herbs and creamy goat cheese, she had asked the chef for the recipe, and he had graciously shared it with her.

Since then, Margaret had made this dish countless times, adapting and perfecting the recipe to suit her own tastes. She explained that the secret to a perfect Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese lies in using the freshest ingredients possible – eggs from free-range hens, herbs picked straight from the garden, and creamy goat cheese from a local dairy farm.

Finally, the eggs were ready, and Margaret placed a steaming ramekin in front of me. I took my first bite, savoring the velvety texture of the eggs, the burst of flavor from the herbs, and the tangy richness of the goat cheese. It was a revelation – a simple yet stunning dish that showcased the beauty of fresh, wholesome ingredients.

From that day on, Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for my family and friends, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. Over the years, I have added my own twist to the dish, experimenting with different herbs, cheeses, and garnishes to create new flavor combinations.

I remember one summer when my grandchildren came to visit, and I decided to make Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese for breakfast. They watched with wide eyes as I cracked the eggs, sprinkled the herbs, and crumbled the cheese, eager to taste the final result. When the eggs emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling, their faces lit up with delight as they took their first bite.

"Grandma, this is the best breakfast ever!" They exclaimed, their mouths still full of eggs and cheese. I smiled, knowing that I had passed on not just a recipe, but a tradition – a love for good food made with care and passion.

As I sit here now, in my own cozy kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I have collected over the years, each one a precious memory of a shared moment, a shared meal. And as I prepare Baked Eggs with Fresh Herbs and Goat Cheese once again, I can't help but think of Margaret and the French countryside, of warm summer days and the joy of discovering something new and delicious.

I take a bite of the eggs, savoring the familiar flavors that never fail to delight me. And as I close my eyes and let the taste transport me to another time and place, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food, good friends, and good memories. And for that, I am truly thankful.