Eggs with beans and toast with ricotta

Eggs with beans and ricotta toast: An explosion of flavors and textures

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

Who doesn't love an energizing breakfast that offers both taste and nutritional benefits? Our recipe today, "Eggs with beans and ricotta toast," is a delicious and healthy combination, perfect for starting the day with a smile. This recipe is more than simple; it is a connection to nature, fresh ingredients, and a cooking technique that will transform every meal into a celebration.

A brief history of the recipe

Throughout culinary history, eggs and beans have been associated with breakfast in many cultures, providing an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients. Combined with sweet and aromatic tomatoes, this dish becomes a true delight. Whether it's a brunch with friends or a quick breakfast, this recipe will bring smiles and satisfaction.

Ingredients

- 2 fresh eggs
- 400 grams canned beans (preferably white or red beans)
- 250 grams cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 lemon (juice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 stems of fresh basil
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 2 slices of whole grain bread
- 2 heaping tablespoons of ricotta
- Balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Hot sauce (optional)

Recipe preparation

Step 1: Marinating the tomatoes

Start by washing the cherry tomatoes well. Cut them in half and add them to a bowl. Pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the juice of 1/2 lemon, a pinch of salt, and a few chopped fresh basil leaves. Gently mix so that all the ingredients combine. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors of the tomatoes and make them even more delicious.

Step 2: Cooking the beans

Heat a non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the drained and rinsed beans. Add the fennel seeds and pepper. Let them sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans become crispy. This step will add a pleasant texture to the dish.

Step 3: Adding the tomatoes

Once the beans are ready, add the marinated tomatoes along with 100 ml of water. Let everything boil on high heat for 1 minute. The tomatoes will release their juices, creating a delicious sauce that will coat the beans.

Step 4: Cooking the eggs

Crack the eggs directly into the skillet, being careful to place them evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the eggs cook for 3-4 minutes, depending on how you prefer them (soft or harder). This step is crucial – the eggs should be slightly soft in the middle but perfectly cooked on the outside.

Step 5: Preparing the toast

Meanwhile, prepare the bread. You can toast it on a hot grill or in a toaster until it becomes crispy. Once ready, spread each slice with 1 tablespoon of ricotta. The ricotta will add a wonderful creaminess and balance the intense flavors of the beans and tomatoes.

Step 6: Serving

Share everything on plates: place the eggs over the beans, add a few fresh basil leaves, and if desired, drizzle with balsamic vinegar and hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor. The slices of bread with ricotta are perfect for soaking up all the delicious juices on the plate.

Practical tips

- Beans: You can use fresh beans, but canned beans are extremely convenient and quick. Make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
- Tomatoes: If you don't have cherry tomatoes, you can use regular tomatoes, diced. The taste will be slightly different, but just as delicious!
- Ricotta: If you don't have ricotta, you can use goat cheese or even feta cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Variations: Instead of basil, try dill or fresh parsley for a different note. You can also add chili peppers for an extra kick.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins. Eggs are an excellent source of quality protein, while beans are high in fiber, aiding digestion. Tomatoes provide a significant amount of vitamin C and antioxidants, while ricotta offers additional calcium and protein.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other vegetables instead of beans?
Yes, you can use vegetables like zucchini or spinach. Cook them separately, then combine them with the eggs and tomatoes.

2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe by using tofu instead of eggs and omitting ricotta or replacing it with a plant-based alternative.

3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
It's best to prepare it fresh, but you can prep the ingredients the night before and assemble them in the morning.

4. What drinks pair well with this breakfast?
Freshly brewed coffee or a fruit smoothie is an excellent choice. Additionally, green tea can add a refreshing note.

Personal note

This recipe reminds me of mornings spent with family, where every meal was an opportunity to connect and enjoy good food. It is simple yet extremely satisfying, and I am sure it will bring you joy in every bite. Savor every moment and feel free to explore variations of this recipe – each attempt will bring new delicious discoveries!