Sun-Dried Tomato Scrambled Eggs: A Flavorful Breakfast Delight

Recipes Italian Chef

Sun-Dried Tomato Scrambled Eggs: A Flavorful Breakfast Delight

Scrambled eggs are a breakfast staple, known for their simplicity and versatility. They can be customized with a variety of ingredients, from cheese and herbs to vegetables and meats, offering endless possibilities for a quick and satisfying meal. Today, we’re taking scrambled eggs to the next level with the vibrant and intense flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe for Sun-Dried Tomato Scrambled Eggs is not only incredibly easy to make but also delivers a burst of Mediterranean sunshine to your morning routine. The chewy texture and concentrated sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes perfectly complement the creamy richness of the eggs, creating a breakfast dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Quick and Easy:** This recipe comes together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
* **Flavorful:** Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique and delicious twist to classic scrambled eggs.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or vegetables.
* **Healthy:** Packed with protein and healthy fats, this breakfast will keep you feeling full and energized throughout the morning.
* **Impressive:** Elevate your breakfast game with this simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Eggs:** The foundation of our dish. Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best flavor and texture. Large eggs are generally preferred for scrambled eggs recipes.
* **Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** The star of the show! Choose sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for extra flavor and moisture. Be sure to drain the oil before using them.
* **Olive Oil:** Used for sautéing the sun-dried tomatoes and preventing the eggs from sticking to the pan. Extra virgin olive oil adds a richer flavor, but regular olive oil works just as well.
* **Milk or Cream:** Adding a splash of milk or cream to the eggs creates a creamier and more tender texture. You can also use half-and-half or even water if you prefer.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of the eggs and sun-dried tomatoes. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best taste.
* **Optional Add-ins:** Fresh herbs (such as basil, oregano, or thyme), grated Parmesan cheese, feta cheese, spinach, or chopped onions can be added to customize the recipe to your liking.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Non-stick skillet:** A non-stick skillet is essential for preventing the eggs from sticking and ensuring a smooth and even cooking process. An 8-inch or 10-inch skillet is ideal.
* **Whisk:** Used to beat the eggs together with the milk or cream and seasonings. A fork can also be used in a pinch.
* **Spatula:** A flexible spatula is perfect for gently scraping the eggs from the bottom of the skillet and creating soft, fluffy curds.
* **Cutting board and knife:** For chopping the sun-dried tomatoes (if necessary) and any other desired add-ins.
* **Measuring spoons:** For accurately measuring the salt, pepper, and any other seasonings.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide on how to make the perfect Sun-Dried Tomato Scrambled Eggs:

**Step 1: Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes**

* If using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drain them well and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps to remove excess oil and prevent the eggs from becoming greasy.
* If the sun-dried tomatoes are large, chop them into smaller pieces (about ¼ inch). This will ensure that they are evenly distributed throughout the eggs and easier to eat.

**Step 2: Whisk the Eggs**

* In a medium bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk or cream (about 1-2 tablespoons per 2 eggs). The amount of liquid you add will affect the final texture of the scrambled eggs. More liquid will result in softer, looser curds, while less liquid will produce firmer, denser curds.
* Add salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to over-salt, as sun-dried tomatoes can be quite salty.
* Whisk the eggs vigorously until they are light and frothy. This incorporates air into the eggs, which will help to create a light and fluffy texture.

**Step 3: Sauté the Sun-Dried Tomatoes**

* Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the sun-dried tomatoes. This will help them to release their flavor and prevent them from sticking to the pan.
* Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until they are fragrant and slightly softened. Be careful not to burn them.

**Step 4: Cook the Scrambled Eggs**

* Pour the whisked eggs into the skillet with the sun-dried tomatoes.
* Reduce the heat to low. This is crucial for cooking perfect scrambled eggs. Cooking them over high heat will result in dry, rubbery eggs.
* Using a spatula, gently push the cooked egg from the edges of the skillet towards the center, allowing the uncooked egg to flow underneath. Continue this process until the eggs are mostly set but still slightly moist.
* Remove the skillet from the heat. The residual heat will continue to cook the eggs to your desired consistency. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become dry and tough.

**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**

* Serve the Sun-Dried Tomato Scrambled Eggs immediately.
* Garnish with fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, for added flavor and visual appeal.
* Serve with toast, bagels, croissants, or your favorite breakfast sides.
* Enjoy!

## Tips for Perfect Scrambled Eggs

* **Use Fresh, High-Quality Eggs:** The quality of your eggs will significantly impact the flavor and texture of your scrambled eggs. Opt for fresh, high-quality eggs from a reputable source.
* **Don’t Overcook the Eggs:** Overcooked scrambled eggs are dry, rubbery, and unappetizing. The key to perfect scrambled eggs is to cook them low and slow, and to remove them from the heat just before they are fully set.
* **Use a Non-Stick Skillet:** A non-stick skillet is essential for preventing the eggs from sticking and ensuring a smooth and even cooking process.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** If you’re making a large batch of scrambled eggs, it’s best to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in watery eggs.
* **Add a Splash of Milk or Cream:** Adding a splash of milk or cream to the eggs creates a creamier and more tender texture. You can also use half-and-half or even water if you prefer.
* **Season Generously:** Season the eggs with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to over-salt, as sun-dried tomatoes can be quite salty. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes, to customize the flavor.
* **Gently Fold the Eggs:** When cooking the eggs, use a spatula to gently fold them from the edges of the skillet towards the center. This will create soft, fluffy curds.
* **Remove from Heat Before Fully Set:** The eggs will continue to cook from the residual heat, so it’s important to remove them from the heat just before they are fully set. This will prevent them from overcooking and becoming dry.

## Variations and Add-ins

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to your liking. Here are a few variations and add-ins to try:

* **Cheese:** Add grated Parmesan cheese, feta cheese, goat cheese, or cheddar cheese to the eggs for extra flavor and creaminess.
* **Herbs:** Fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, thyme, or chives, add a bright and aromatic flavor to the eggs.
* **Vegetables:** Sauté chopped onions, garlic, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers with the sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrients and flavor.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
* **Meat:** Add cooked bacon, sausage, or ham to the eggs for a heartier breakfast.
* **Pesto:** Swirl a spoonful of pesto into the eggs just before serving for a burst of flavor.
* **Avocado:** Top the scrambled eggs with sliced avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats.

## Serving Suggestions

Sun-Dried Tomato Scrambled Eggs can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **With Toast:** Serve the scrambled eggs on toast, bagels, or croissants for a classic breakfast.
* **In a Breakfast Burrito:** Wrap the scrambled eggs in a tortilla with other fillings, such as black beans, salsa, and avocado, for a hearty breakfast burrito.
* **As a Side Dish:** Serve the scrambled eggs as a side dish to other breakfast items, such as pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
* **On an English Muffin:** Top an English muffin with the scrambled eggs and a slice of cheese for a quick and easy breakfast sandwich.
* **With Smoked Salmon:** Serve the scrambled eggs with smoked salmon and cream cheese for a luxurious breakfast treat.
* **Over Polenta:** Serve the scrambled eggs over creamy polenta for a comforting and flavorful meal.

## Nutritional Information

(Approximate values per serving, without optional add-ins):

* Calories: 250-300
* Protein: 15-20g
* Fat: 18-25g
* Carbohydrates: 5-10g

*Please note that nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.*

## Storage Instructions

Scrambled eggs are best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving. Keep in mind that reheated scrambled eggs may be slightly drier than freshly cooked eggs.

## Sun-Dried Tomato Scrambled Eggs Recipe

**Yields:** 2 servings
**Prep time:** 5 minutes
**Cook time:** 5-7 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 4 large eggs
* 2 tablespoons milk or cream
* 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese

**Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk/cream, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Pour egg mixture into the skillet.
5. Reduce heat to low and gently push the cooked egg from the edges to the center, allowing uncooked egg to flow underneath.
6. Continue until eggs are mostly set but still slightly moist.
7. Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Sun-Dried Tomato Scrambled Eggs! This simple recipe elevates a breakfast classic, offering a taste of sunshine any day of the week. Experiment with different add-ins and variations to find your perfect combination. Happy cooking!

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