Breakfast bread

The Happy Parcel: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

I present to you a recipe that brings smiles to the faces of your loved ones: The Happy Parcel. This is an incredible combination of flavors, textures, and colors, perfect for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or even a light dinner. It is a simple recipe that combines slices of bread with delicious ingredients, transforming into a well-structured and appealing dish.

The history of the Happy Parcel is fascinating, with roots in home cooking, where each family contributes its personal touch through the ingredients used. This recipe is a modern variant of classic dishes, reminding us of shared meals filled with warmth and joy.

Ingredients:
- 1 sliced loaf (preferably whole grain for added nutrients)
- 50g soft butter (for a creamy texture)
- 50g salami or another preferred meat (can also be ham or tofu for a vegetarian option)
- 50g cheese (for a rich flavor) + 200g grated cheese (for topping)
- a few tomatoes (ideally ripe for sweetness)
- 1 cup of milk (plant-based milk is an excellent alternative)
- 5 eggs (the perfect source of protein)
- salt, pepper (essential spices for flavor)
- chopped fresh parsley (for a touch of freshness)

Preparation:
1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is essential to ensure even and quick baking of your Happy Parcel.

2. Grease a tart pan with the soft butter, ensuring it is evenly covered. This will prevent the dish from sticking and add a delicious flavor.

3. Place the slices of bread in the tart pan, side by side, covering the entire surface, forming a well-compacted base.

4. On the first slice of bread, place slices of salami (or your preferred meat), followed by tomato slices. These will add a touch of freshness and flavor.

5. On the adjacent slices, add cheese slices and tomato rounds, continuing to build a layer of flavors.

6. Cover everything with other buttered slices of bread, thus completing your "parcel" with goodies.

7. In the remaining gaps in the pan, add diced tomatoes and cheese, providing a crunchy texture and intense flavor.

8. In a bowl, beat the eggs with a cup of milk, salt, and pepper to taste. The resulting mixture will be poured evenly over the entire composition in the pan. It is important that this liquid integrates well into the bread, and do not worry about the amount of liquid, as it will be absorbed by the bread slices during baking.

9. Finally, cover everything with 200g of grated cheese and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley for a colorful and appetizing appearance.

10. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes golden and crispy.

11. Once ready, let the dish cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to portion and serve.

Serving Suggestions:
The Happy Parcel is delicious served warm, but it can also be enjoyed cold. It can be accompanied by a fresh green salad or a side of grilled vegetables for an extra boost of vitamins. Additionally, a refreshing drink, such as fruit tea or natural juice, will pair perfectly.

Tips and Variations:
- You can customize the recipe according to your preferences. Replace salami with chicken or turkey for a healthier option, or add olives and peppers for a Mediterranean flavor.
- If you want a vegetarian option, use feta or mozzarella cheese and add black olives for a delicious contrast.
- The Happy Parcel can also be made with whole grain bread or even gluten-free bread to cater to various diets.

Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the eggs and cheese, providing excellent nutritional value. Tomatoes bring a high content of antioxidants, and whole grain bread contributes essential fiber for digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, any cheese that melts well will work; cheddar or gouda cheese are excellent choices.

2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the parcel a day ahead and then pop it in the oven when you are ready to serve.

3. What sides pair best?
A fresh salad or grilled vegetables are the best options to complement this delicious dish.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as if it were a pleasant childhood memory, filled with flavors and unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!