Florentine eggs with ham

Florentine Eggs with Ham: A Gourmet Delight at Home

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Florentine eggs with ham represent an elegant and flavorful recipe, perfect for a sophisticated brunch or a light dinner. This delicious combination of eggs, fresh spinach, and smoked ham is not only nutritious but also a true feast for the taste buds. The origins of the recipe can be found in culinary traditions that celebrate eggs and green vegetables, and today, I invite you to discover how to recreate this dish at home, step by step.

Ingredients

- 500 g fresh spinach
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 8 slices of smoked ham, diced
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 4 eggs
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 4 tablespoons sour cream (or double cream)
- 150 g grated cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary Utensils

- Large pot for boiling
- Non-stick frying pan
- Baking dish
- Slotted spoon or ladle
- Grater for cheese
- Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Spinach

The first step in making this recipe is to take care of the spinach. Ensure the spinach is well washed to remove any impurities. Place it in a large pot of boiling water with 1 teaspoon of salt. Let the spinach boil for 3-5 minutes until it becomes soft and vibrant green.

Helpful Tip: If you want to keep the bright green color of the spinach, you can plunge it immediately into cold water after boiling to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Preparing the Ham

While the spinach is cooking, heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add the 3 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the diced smoked ham. Sauté the ham for 5-7 minutes until it is golden and crispy.

Tip: Use high-quality ham for a more intense flavor. You can also experiment with different types of ham, such as prosciutto or pancetta.

Step 3: Combining the Ingredients

After the spinach has been drained, add it to the pan with the ham and mix well. Sprinkle the nutmeg and aim to combine the flavors. Let the mixture heat for another 3 minutes, tasting to check if more salt is needed. Be careful with the salt, as the ham is already salty.

Step 4: Boiling the Eggs

In a separate pot, bring 2 liters of water to a boil. Add the 2 tablespoons of vinegar to the water. When the water begins to boil, crack the eggs one by one into the water. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks are still soft.

Tip: If you want poached eggs with firmer yolks, leave them on the heat for 6-7 minutes.

Step 5: Assembling and Baking

Preheat the oven to 220°C. In a greased baking dish, form 4 mounds of the spinach and ham mixture. On top of each mound, place a poached egg, then add a tablespoon of sour cream and sprinkle grated cheddar cheese.

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serving

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is wonderful served with fresh arugula salad and a slice of toasted bread. A wedge of lemon can add a touch of freshness.

Personal Tip and Variations

For a personal touch, try adding a few slices of avocado on top before serving. You can also replace the spinach with kale or other spring greens to experiment with new flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
- Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.

2. What else could I add to this recipe?
- You can add sautéed mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

3. How can I make the recipe more diet-friendly?
- Substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt and use lean ham or tofu to reduce calories.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe provides an excellent source of protein due to the eggs and ham, as well as a good dose of vitamins and minerals from the spinach. Spinach is rich in iron and antioxidants, contributing to heart and bone health.

Conclusion

Florentine eggs with ham are a quick and simple recipe that transforms basic ingredients into a refined meal. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or for a delicious breakfast, it is a choice that will surely impress. I invite you to experiment and customize your recipe to suit your tastes. Enjoy!