French Toast with Pesto

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pesto:

Start by preparing your pesto. If you’re using store-bought pesto, you can skip this step and move on to the next one. However, for a truly homemade touch, make your pesto by blending fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts (or walnuts), Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set the pesto aside to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Make the French Toast Batter:

In a shallow bowl or dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. The Parmesan adds a nice richness to the batter, helping the French toast develop a golden, savory crust when cooked.

3. Soak the Bread:

Take your slices of bread and dip them into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides of the bread well. Allow the bread to soak for a few seconds so it absorbs the mixture but doesn’t become too soggy. The thicker the bread, the better it will hold up to soaking.

4. Cook the French Toast:

In a large skillet or griddle, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is sizzling and has turned golden, add the soaked bread slices. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat slightly, so the French toast cooks through without burning.

5. Assemble the French Toast with Pesto:

Once the French toast is cooked and crispy on both sides, place it on a serving plate. Spoon a generous amount of pesto on top of each slice. The pesto can either be spread out evenly or served in a dollop, depending on your preference.

6. Garnish and Serve:

For extra flair, top the French toast with fresh basil leaves and sliced cherry tomatoes. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the pesto. Serve the dish immediately while the French toast is warm and crispy.

Tips for Perfect French Toast with Pesto:

• Bread Choice: Opt for a sturdy, thick-cut bread that can hold up to the egg mixture and the pesto topping. Brioche, sourdough, or a hearty whole grain bread work wonderfully for this recipe.
• Custom Pesto Variations: While classic basil pesto is delicious, feel free to experiment with different variations! Try sun-dried tomato pesto, arugula pesto, or spinach pesto for a different twist.
• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding a poached or fried egg on top of the French toast. The runny yolk pairs perfectly with the pesto and adds extra richness.
• Vegan Version: To make this recipe vegan, simply use a plant-based milk and egg substitute (such as flax eggs or chickpea flour) in place of the eggs. You can also use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan cheese in the batter for a cheesy flavor.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto or drizzling some hot sauce over the finished dish.

Why You’ll Love This French Toast with Pesto:

• Savory and Flavorful: The bold, herbaceous flavor of pesto adds a savory kick that balances beautifully with the crispy, buttery French toast. It’s a perfect contrast to the usual sweet French toast toppings.
• Versatile: French Toast with Pesto is a dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover bread or turn a simple meal into something extraordinary.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, this dish is easy to make and doesn’t require a lot of prep. You’ll have a gourmet breakfast ready in no time!
• Customizable: Whether you want to add extra veggies, proteins, or a splash of balsamic glaze, this recipe is highly adaptable to your tastes.

Conclusion:

French Toast with Pesto is a savory delight that turns an everyday breakfast into something special. Whether you’re looking for a hearty brunch option, a savory twist on a classic, or just a way to enjoy your pesto in a new form, this recipe is the answer. The crispy, buttery French toast paired with the aromatic pesto and fresh toppings creates a well-balanced, satisfying dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy this fun and flavorful twist on French toast—you might never go back to sweet versions again!