Pesto Egg Breakfast Pasta
Creamy, herby pesto mingles with perfectly poached eggs in a cozy pasta bowl that'll kickstart your morning with gusto.
Total: 25 minPrep: 10 minCook: 15 minServes 4 hungry breakfast loversDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 8 oz pasta (like penne or fusilli)
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for spice
Steps
- 1 Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- 2 In the same pot, add pesto and 1/4 cup pasta water, stirring to combine.
- 3 Crack eggs into the pot, gently stirring to poach them in the sauce.
- 4 Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- 5 Toss with Parmesan, adding more pasta water if needed for consistency.
- 6 Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Tongs
- Wooden spoon
Variations
- Add cooked chicken or crispy pancetta for extra protein.
- Swap pesto for a sun-dried tomato sauce for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions
- Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier green.
- Substitute basil pesto with arugula pesto for a peppery kick.
Pairings
- Serve with a slice of crusty bread.
- A glass of sparkling water with lemon
Nutrition
Calories:
500 kcal
Fat:
20g fat
Carbs:
50g carbohydrates
Protein:
25g protein
Fiber:
5g fiber
Sugar:
5g sugar
Sodium:
600mg sodium
Tips
- For a creamier sauce, add more reserved pasta water as needed.
- Feel free to use store-bought pesto to save time!
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a bit of extra pesto and water.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted tomatoes on the side.
- A cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea complements this dish perfectly.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead?
Yes, but add the eggs just before serving to keep them runny and fresh.