A Delicious Mediterranean Twist on a Classic Breakfast Dish
Eggs Benedict is a beloved brunch staple, but have you ever tried a Mediterranean-inspired version? This recipe swaps traditional hollandaise sauce for a creamy, tangy tahini hollandaise and incorporates fresh ingredients like spinach, tomatoes, and feta cheese. The result is a nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying breakfast that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Healthier Alternative: Tahini is packed with healthy fats, protein, and minerals, making it a nutritious substitute for butter-based hollandaise.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of poached eggs, warm toasted bread, and Mediterranean spices is simply irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With a few simple steps, you can prepare this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Tahini Hollandaise:
• ¼ cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp cumin
• ¼ cup warm water (adjust for desired consistency)
For the Eggs Benedict:
• 2 English muffins or whole-grain bread, toasted
• 4 eggs
• 1 tbsp white vinegar (for poaching eggs)
• ½ cup fresh spinach, sautéed
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp za’atar or sumac (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Tahini Hollandaise
In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and cumin. Gradually add warm water while whisking until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Poach the Eggs
• Fill a saucepan with water and bring it to a gentle simmer.
• Add a tablespoon of white vinegar.
• Crack each egg into a small bowl and carefully slide it into the simmering water.
• Poach for 3–4 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
3. Prepare the Mediterranean Toppings
• Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Sauté spinach for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
• Lightly season with salt and pepper.
• Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside.
4. Assemble Your Mediterranean Eggs Benedict
• Place toasted bread or English muffin halves on plates.
• Top each half with sautéed spinach and cherry tomatoes.
• Carefully place a poached egg on each piece.
• Drizzle with tahini hollandaise.
• Sprinkle crumbled feta and a pinch of za’atar or sumac for extra Mediterranean flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, and serve immediately. Pair with a fresh cucumber and olive salad or a side of hummus for a complete Mediterranean-inspired breakfast.
Expert Tips for Perfect Eggs Benedict
• Poaching Hack: Use fresh eggs for the best poaching results. Swirling the water slightly before adding the egg helps it keep its shape.
• Customize It: Swap spinach for arugula or add roasted red peppers for an extra kick.
• Tahini Consistency: If your tahini sauce thickens too much, just whisk in a bit more warm water.
Health Benefits of This Mediterranean-Inspired Dish
This version of Eggs Benedict is packed with heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and protein. Tahini is rich in calcium and healthy fats, while spinach and tomatoes provide essential vitamins and fiber. Swapping a butter-heavy hollandaise for tahini makes this dish both nutritious and indulgent!