Pin it The morning I discovered pesto egg toast was actually a happy accident. I was starving after a late start and too groggy to follow a real recipe, just slathering leftover pesto on toast and topping it with a soft-boiled egg I'd intended to eat plain. That first bite—crunchy bread, creamy yolk mixing with the bright basil—woke me up faster than any coffee could have.
I made this for my sister when she was recovering from surgery and couldn't handle anything too heavy. She kept talking about that toast for weeks afterward, asking if I could teach her the secret. There is no secret really, just good ingredients and paying attention to the little details that make ordinary food feel special.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs: Fresh eggs peel more cleanly after boiling, and room temperature eggs cook more evenly
- 2 slices sourdough or country bread: Sturdy bread holds up better under the weight of the egg and pesto without getting soggy
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto: Homemade is lovely, but a good quality store-bought pesto works perfectly in a pinch
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: A finishing drizzle adds luxurious richness and ties everything together
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Enhance all the flavors without overpowering the fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese: Optional but adds a salty, nutty depth that complements the pesto beautifully
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil: Adds brightness and makes the dish look professionally finished
- Pinch of red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to wake up your palate without overwhelming the delicate flavors
Instructions
- Boil the eggs to perfection:
- Bring a small pot of water to a rolling boil and carefully lower in the eggs with a slotted spoon. Simmer for exactly 7 minutes for that irresistible jammy yolk consistency. Transfer immediately to an ice bath or run under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Get your bread crispy:
- Toast the slices until they are golden brown and crisp. You want a sturdy base that will stand up to the toppings without becoming soggy.
- Spread the pesto generously:
- Divide the pesto evenly between the two slices of toast, spreading it all the way to the edges. This ensures every bite is full of flavor.
- Arrange the eggs:
- Carefully slice each peeled egg in half and place the halves cut side up on the pesto-covered toast. The yolk should be visible and slightly gelatinous.
- Add the finishing touches:
- Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with Parmesan, fresh basil, and red pepper flakes if you are using them.
- Serve immediately:
- This dish is best enjoyed right away while the toast is still crisp and the yolk is warm and creamy.
Pin it This recipe became my go-to when I moved into my first apartment and had limited cooking equipment. It felt sophisticated and satisfying, like I was actually adulting, even though it required just a saucepan and a toaster. Now whenever I see it on brunch menus I smile knowing my version at home is just as good and costs a fraction of the price.
Choosing The Right Bread
Sourdough is my go-to because its tangy flavor complements the pesto and its texture holds up beautifully. Country bread, ciabatta, or even a hearty whole grain would work well too. The key is choosing bread that is substantial enough to support the toppings without collapsing. Avoid soft sandwich bread or anything with a delicate crumb that will turn to mush under the egg and pesto.
Pesto Variations To Try
While classic basil pesto is wonderful, do not be afraid to experiment. Sun-dried tomato pesto adds sweetness and depth, arugula pesto brings a peppery bite, and a spinach and walnut pesto offers a milder flavor profile. Make a big batch on Sunday and use it throughout the week for quick meals. The variations keep things interesting and prevent recipe fatigue.
Make It Your Own
Once you have mastered the basic technique, this recipe becomes a canvas for your favorite ingredients and whatever you have in the refrigerator. The formula is simple: crispy bread, creamy protein, flavorful spread, and fresh toppings. Follow your instincts and taste preferences to create your perfect version.
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats
- Spread a layer of ricotta under the pesto for added richness
- Top with microgreens or arugula for a peppery fresh contrast
Pin it There is something deeply satisfying about a dish that comes together so quickly yet feels so thoughtful. Whether you are cooking for yourself or someone special, this toast proves that simple ingredients, treated with care, can become something extraordinary.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you achieve jammy yolk eggs?
Simmer eggs gently in boiling water for 7 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to halt cooking. This yields a soft, jammy yolk texture.
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
Sourdough or country-style bread toasted until golden and crisp provides the ideal sturdy base with a crunchy texture.
- → Can I use different pesto variations?
Yes, experimenting with sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto adds unique flavors and fresh twists to the dish.
- → How can I add extra richness?
Including sliced avocado or a layer of ricotta beneath the pesto enriches the toast with creamy textures and flavors.
- → Are there gluten-free options available?
Using gluten-free bread allows those avoiding gluten to enjoy this dish without compromising texture or flavor.