Egg recipes: 15 simple options to change up your menu

Michele

Eggs are versatile and nutritious ingredients that can be found in practically every kitchen around the world. As well as being an excellent source of protein, eggs are also very affordable and can be used in a variety of ways in cooking. If you're looking for creative ways to incorporate eggs into your meals, you've come to the right place! 

Recipe options with eggs to vary the menu

Eggs are true culinary jokers, capable of transforming simple meals into incredibly tasty and nutritious dishes. With their versatility and ease of preparation, they become indispensable allies in the quest for a varied and balanced diet. In this set of recipes, we present a carefully prepared selection of options that exploit the full potential of eggs, offering delicious alternatives to enrich and diversify your menu.

1. Creamy scrambled eggs

Creamy scrambled eggs are a real comfort food that evokes memories of lazy mornings and quiet afternoons at the table. This simple yet comforting recipe is a classic way to start the day with a satisfying and delicious meal.

To prepare creamy scrambled eggs, simply beat fresh eggs with a touch of milk or cream, giving a smooth, creamy texture. The addition of milk not only helps to thin the eggs, making them softer, but also contributes to the richness of the final flavor. In addition, the possibility of seasoning the eggs with a variety of condiments, such as salt, pepper, fresh herbs or grated cheese, allows you to customize the dish according to individual preferences, guaranteeing a final result that is always surprising and delicious.

The process of cooking scrambled eggs requires careful attention and a delicate technique. Cooking them over a low heat and stirring constantly is essential to ensure a creamy and uniform texture, preventing the eggs from becoming dry or overcooked. The secret lies in keeping the heat gentle and constant, allowing the eggs to cook slowly until they reach the perfect consistency.

2. Vegetable omelette

A vegetable omelette is a healthy, versatile and delicious option that allows you to incorporate a variety of nutritious ingredients into a quick and easy meal. This recipe is an excellent way to add more vegetables to your diet while enjoying a satisfying meal full of flavor.

The process of making a vegetable omelette is simple and flexible. Start by beating fresh eggs in a bowl and seasoning them to taste with salt, pepper and other herbs or spices of your choice. Next, prepare the vegetables by cutting them into small pieces or thin slices. You can use a variety of vegetables, such as peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, broccoli or any other vegetable you like.

To prepare the omelette, heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil or butter. Pour the beaten eggs into the pan and cook for a few minutes until the underside is firm. Then add the prepared vegetables evenly over half the eggs in the pan. Fold the other half of the eggs over the vegetables, forming a half-moon, and cook for a few more minutes until the eggs are completely cooked and the vegetables are soft.

3. Spanish tortilla

The Spanish tortilla, or tortilla de patatas, is a classic delicacy of Spanish cuisine, appreciated all over the world for its simplicity, comforting taste and versatility. This traditional recipe combines simple ingredients such as eggs, potatoes and onions to create a dish that is much more than the sum of its parts.

The preparation of the Spanish tortilla may vary slightly according to region and personal preference, but the basic elements remain the same. Start by peeling and thinly slicing potatoes and slicing onions. Then sauté the potatoes and onions in olive oil until they are soft and golden. This frying process gives the potatoes a soft texture on the inside and a slight crunch on the outside, adding depth of flavor to the tortilla.

Once the potatoes and onions are cooked, drain off the excess oil and transfer them to a large bowl. Then beat eggs in another bowl and pour over the potatoes and onions. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are well distributed.

Next, heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add a little more olive oil. Pour the egg, potato and onion mixture into the pan and spread evenly. Cook for a few minutes until the bottom of the tortilla is firm and golden.

Flip the tortilla

Now comes the crucial moment: flipping the tortilla. Place a large plate over the frying pan and turn it upside down so that the tortilla falls onto the plate. Then carefully slide the tortilla back into the pan so that the top side cooks. Continue cooking until the tortilla is completely cooked through and golden on both sides.

The Spanish tortilla can be served warm, in generous slices, as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad or as a delicious snack on a tapas menu. It's also a great choice for a picnic or outdoor snack, as it can be easily transported and eaten cold or at room temperature.

4. Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a delicious and comforting recipe that originated in the Middle East and has become popular in many parts of the world due to its unique combination of flavors and ease of preparation. This delicacy is a mixture of poached eggs cooked in a spicy sauce of tomatoes, peppers, onions and spices, resulting in an explosion of flavor that pleases all palates.

To prepare Shakshuka, start by sautéing onion and garlic in olive oil in a large frying pan until soft and golden. Then add thinly sliced peppers and sauté until they are slightly caramelized. Once the vegetables are well browned, add chopped tomatoes, preferably fresh, and cook until they start to fall apart and form a thick sauce.

Shakshuka's special touch comes from traditional Middle Eastern spices such as cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper and fresh coriander. Add these spices to the tomato sauce and mix well to ensure that all the flavors are incorporated evenly. This is the time to adjust the level of spiciness according to your personal preference.

Once the sauce is ready, make small holes in the surface with a spoon and break the eggs directly into the sauce. Cover the pan and let the eggs cook over a low heat until the whites are firm but the yolks are still slightly runny.

5. Banana and egg pancakes

Banana and egg pancakes are a healthy, simple and delicious option for breakfast or a snack. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a gluten-free alternative to traditional pancakes, as it doesn't require wheat flour.

To prepare the banana and egg pancakes, start by peeling and mashing ripe bananas in a large bowl. Then add beaten eggs to the bananas and mix well until you have a homogeneous batter. The banana not only adds natural sweetness to the pancakes, but also acts as a binder, replacing the need for flour.

You can add some optional ingredients to the dough, such as a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract, for an extra touch of flavor. Another option is to add a few drops of lemon juice or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus touch.

Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or butter. Pour small portions of the batter into the hot frying pan and cook for a few minutes until the edges begin to firm up and bubbles appear on the surface of the pancakes. Then turn the pancakes over with a spatula and cook on the other side until they are golden brown and cooked through.

6. Egg muffins with vegetables

Egg muffins with vegetables are a practical, healthy and portable option for breakfast, a snack or even as an accompaniment to your main meals. This recipe is a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, while enjoying the convenience of food that is easy to prepare and transport.

To make egg muffins with vegetables, start by preparing the vegetables of your choice. You can use a variety of vegetables, such as spinach, peppers, onions, tomatoes, mushrooms and broccoli. Chop the vegetables into small pieces and sauté them lightly in a frying pan with a little olive oil or butter until they are soft. Leave to cool.

While the vegetables are cooling, beat eggs in a large bowl. Add milk or cream to the eggs and season to taste with salt, pepper and other herbs or spices of your choice. Add the sautéed vegetables to the egg mixture and stir well to distribute evenly.

7. Egg salad

This classic salad is perfect for a light and satisfying lunch. Boil eggs until firm, chop them and mix with mayonnaise, mustard, chopped onion, celery and seasonings to taste. Serve on a bed of lettuce or in wholemeal sandwiches.

8. Stuffed boiled eggs

Stuffed hard-boiled eggs are a great option to serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. Boil the eggs until firm, cut in half and remove the yolks. Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard and seasoning to taste and fill the egg whites with the mixture. Garnish with a little paprika before serving.

9. Cheese and herb frittata

This frittata is a sophisticated and delicious option for a quick dinner. Beat eggs with grated cheese, chopped fresh herbs, salt and pepper, and pour into a greased frying pan. Cook over a low heat until the eggs are firm and golden underneath, then finish cooking under the oven grill. Serve with a fresh green salad.

10. Rice dumpling with egg

These dumplings are a creative way to use up leftover rice. Mix cooked rice with beaten eggs, grated cheese, breadcrumbs and seasoning to taste and form into dumplings. Fry in hot oil until golden brown on both sides and serve with chili sauce or soy sauce.

11. Egg wraps

These wraps are a healthy and practical option for a quick lunch or snack. Beat eggs with a little milk and season to taste, then pour the mixture into a greased frying pan. Cook until firm on both sides, then fill with chopped vegetables, grated cheese and the sauce of your choice. Roll up and serve.

12. Spinach and cheese quiche

This quiche is an elegant option for brunch or a special dinner. Line a tart pan with puff pastry or shortcrust pastry and top with a mixture of beaten eggs, sautéed spinach, grated cheese and sour cream. Bake in the oven until the quiche is firm and golden.

13. Egg mug cake

This mug cake is a quick and indulgent option to satisfy a sweet craving. Mix beaten eggs with flour, sugar, oil and baking powder, and pour the mixture into a greased mug. Microwave for a few minutes until the cake is firm and risen. Serve with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.

14. Eggs Benedict

Eggs Benedict are a classic option for an elegant brunch. Place slices of ham or bacon on a toasted English muffin and top with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce. Serve with a sprinkling of paprika and chopped parsley on top.

15. Egg and bacon pie

This pie is a satisfying option for a comforting family dinner. Line a pie dish with shortcrust pastry and top with a mixture of beaten eggs, fried bacon, grated cheese and sour cream. Bake in the oven until the pie is firm and golden. Serve warm with a green salad.

We hope these egg recipes have inspired you to try new ways of incorporating this versatile ingredient into your meals. Whether for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack, eggs are a delicious and nutritious choice that is sure to please all palates. Try some of these recipes and let us know which are your favorites! Bon appétit!

See also: 10 simple recipes to make in the microwave

April 2nd, 2024