Mediterranean-Inspired Baked Eggs

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delicious and nutritious baked eggs dish. It combines fresh vegetables, herbs, and the tangy taste of feta cheese to create a colorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day, especially when sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients:

  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
  • 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • Add the diced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
    • Stir in the cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
  3. Add Herbs and Feta:
    • Sprinkle the skillet with chopped parsley, basil, and oregano, mixing well to distribute the herbs throughout the vegetables.
    • Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the vegetable mixture.
  4. Crack the Eggs:
    • Create small wells in the vegetable mixture and carefully crack an egg into each well. It’s okay if the eggs are close together, but try to keep them from overlapping.
  5. Bake the Dish:
    • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny, or longer if you prefer firmer yolks.
  6. Garnish and Serve:
    • Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Give a final sprinkle of fresh herbs and additional feta cheese if desired.
    • Serve hot directly from the skillet. This dish is perfect with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

This Mediterranean-Inspired Baked Eggs dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight to the palate. It’s packed with flavors that evoke the sunny, vibrant Mediterranean coast and is perfect for a leisurely breakfast, brunch, or a simple yet elegant dinner. Enjoy the blend of textures and flavors with every bite, and share this wholesome meal with those you love.