The vegetarian eggs benedict is a delightful remix of the classic eggs benedict. This recipe substitutes the traditional ham with fresh avocado and delightful sautéed spinach. It's a perfect brunch dish that provides rich, hearty flavors without any meat.
The ingredients for this recipe are quite simple and should be readily available in any grocery store. However, pay special attention to the Dave's Bread Rockin' Grains English Muffins. They are a healthier alternative to traditional English muffins, with added benefits of fiber and whole grains. If you can't find them, any whole grain English muffin will work.
Ingredients for Vegetarian Eggs Benedict
Egg yolks: This is the yellow part of the egg, which provides richness and creaminess to the hollandaise sauce.
Lemon juice: Adds a tangy flavor to balance the richness of the sauce.
Unsalted butter: Serves as the base of the hollandaise sauce.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the spinach.
Baby spinach: Provides a healthy green element to the dish.
Garlic: Adds a savory punch to the spinach.
Avocado: This replaces the traditional ham in eggs benedict, offering creaminess and healthy fats.
Large eggs: These are poached and sit atop the English muffin. Make sure they are fresh for best results.
White vinegar: Helps the egg whites coagulate more easily when poaching.
Dave's Bread Rockin' Grains English Muffins: A healthier alternative to traditional English muffins. Can be replaced with any whole grain English muffin.
Scallions: These are used as a garnish, adding a bright onion flavor.
One reader, Koressa Goins says:
This vegetarian eggs benedict recipe is a game-changer! The hollandaise sauce is so creamy and flavorful, and the combination of avocado, spinach, and perfectly poached eggs is simply divine. It's a delightful twist on a classic dish that's perfect for a special brunch or breakfast treat. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required
How to make hollandaise sauce: A step-by-step guide on making the classic hollandaise sauce, including blending the egg yolks, lemon juice, and butter until thick and creamy.
How to poach eggs: Detailed instructions on how to poach eggs, including bringing water to a simmer, adding vinegar, and gently dropping in the eggs to cook until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
How to sauté spinach: Instructions on sautéing spinach with garlic, olive oil, and seasoning until wilted and flavorful.
How to assemble eggs benedict: A guide on assembling the vegetarian eggs benedict, including toasting the English muffins, layering with avocado, spinach, poached eggs, and hollandaise sauce, and garnishing with scallions.
How To Make Vegetarian Eggs Benedict
A healthy brunch recipe that is a classic option. This vegetarian eggs benedict dish features sliced avocado, sautéed spinach, and Hollandaise sauce.
Serves:
Ingredients
For the Hollandaise Sauce:
- 2egg yolks
- 1tbsplemon juice
- ¼tspsalt
- pinchcayenne pepper
- 8tbspunsalted butter,melted
For the Eggs Benedict:
- 1tbspolive oil
- 5ozbaby spinach
- 1clovegarlic,minced
- pinchsalt and pepper
- 1avocado,thinly sliced
- 4large eggs
- 1tbspwhite vinegar,or apple cider vinegar
- 2Dave’s Bread Rockin’ Grains English muffins
- scallions,chopped for garnish, optional
Instructions
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Add egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne to a blender or food processor and pulse until combined. The mixture should be frothy and light yellow in color.
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Slowly drizzle in the butter and continue to run the blender until the sauce thickens.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and warm until shimmering. Add the spinach and sauté until it wilts and cooks down for about 2 to 3 minutes.
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Then add the garlic and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep spinach warm over very low heat until serving.
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Bring a large pot with a few inches of water to a slight simmer. Add a dash of vinegar to the pot. Swirl the water with a spoon and gently roll in the cracked eggs.
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Let eggs poach in not-quite-boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes or until the whites of the eggs are set and the centers are still soft.
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Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a few paper towels.
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Toast the English muffins. Blend the hollandaise sauce one final time to smooth it out.
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Top English muffins with sliced avocado, then spinach, and finally a poached egg. Right before serving, spoon hollandaise sauce over each Benedict and sprinkle with minced scallions.
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Serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Calories: 482.97kcal
- Fat: 41.06g
- Saturated Fat: 18.44g
- Trans Fat: 0.95g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 16.06g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.68g
- Carbohydrates: 19.88g
- Fiber: 5.64g
- Sugar: 1.27g
- Protein: 12.21g
- Cholesterol: 320.12mg
- Sodium: 492.11mg
- Calcium: 140.17mg
- Potassium: 593.14mg
- Iron: 3.22mg
- Vitamin A: 469.80µg
- Vitamin C: 16.69mg
Technique Tip for Making Vegetarian Eggs Benedict
When poaching your eggs, it's important to keep the water at a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil. This will help the egg whites to coagulate gently around the yolk, resulting in a perfectly poached egg with a runny center. Also, adding a splash of vinegar to the water can help to firm up the egg whites faster. Lastly, swirling the water before adding the egg can help to keep the egg white close to the yolk, giving your poached eggs a neat and tidy appearance.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Vegetarian Eggs Benedict
Prep ahead: Prepare the hollandaise sauce and sauté the spinach the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to save time on the day of cooking.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like a blender or food processor to quickly whip up the hollandaise sauce, making the process more efficient.
Multitask: While the eggs are poaching, toast the English muffins and assemble the other components to save time and streamline the cooking process.
Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather and organize all the ingredients and kitchen tools needed for the recipe to avoid any last-minute scrambling.
Substitute Ingredients For Vegetarian Eggs Benedict Recipe
egg yolks - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu can be blended to create a creamy texture similar to egg yolks, making it a great vegan alternative for hollandaise sauce.
unsalted butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter made from plant-based oils can be used to create a dairy-free hollandaise sauce without compromising on flavor or texture.
eggs - Substitute with tofu or tempeh: Tofu or tempeh can be used as a protein-rich alternative to eggs in the eggs benedict, providing a similar texture and taste.
white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a vegan-friendly alternative to white vinegar in the recipe, adding a tangy flavor to the dish.
english muffins - Substitute with gluten-free english muffins: Gluten-free english muffins can be used for a gluten-sensitive or gluten-free version of the vegetarian eggs benedict recipe.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a milder alternative to scallions, providing a similar onion flavor to garnish the eggs benedict.
Best Way to Present Vegetarian Eggs Benedict
Elevate the plating: When presenting the vegetarian eggs benedict, pay attention to the visual appeal of the dish. Use fresh herbs and edible flowers to add a pop of color and freshness to the plate.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the components of the eggs benedict in a symmetrical and visually appealing manner on the plate. This will showcase attention to detail and precision in plating.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce contrasting textures to the dish by adding a crunchy element such as toasted nuts or crispy shallots to complement the creamy hollandaise sauce and poached eggs.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate and allow the components of the eggs benedict to shine.
Highlight the hollandaise sauce: Use a drizzling technique to elegantly showcase the hollandaise sauce on the eggs benedict. This will draw attention to the richness and velvety texture of the sauce.
Consider the plate shape and color: Select a plate that complements the colors of the dish and consider the shape of the plate to enhance the overall presentation of the vegetarian eggs benedict.
Garnish with microgreens: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the dish with delicate microgreens. These tiny greens not only add a burst of flavor but also contribute to the visual appeal of the dish.
Essential Tools for Making This Vegetarian Recipe
- Blender: A versatile kitchen appliance used for blending, pureeing, and emulsifying ingredients. It's perfect for making smoothies, sauces, and soups.
- Food processor: A powerful kitchen tool that can chop, slice, shred, and puree a variety of ingredients. It's great for making dough, nut butters, and finely chopping vegetables.
- Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients. It's an essential tool for cooking the spinach and garlic in this recipe.
- Large pot: A deep cooking vessel used for boiling, blanching, and simmering large quantities of food. It's necessary for poaching the eggs in this recipe.
- Slotted spoon: A spoon with slots or holes that allow liquids to drain through while lifting solid foods. It's ideal for removing poached eggs from water or draining them before serving.
- Paper towels: Absorbent disposable towels used for drying and draining foods. They are essential for draining poached eggs and removing excess moisture before plating.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover vegetarian eggs benedict on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the hollandaise sauce from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the eggs benedict on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, checking the temperature after each interval, until the dish is heated to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as the poached eggs may explode.
If you have a steamer basket, you can reheat the eggs benedict gently. Place the leftover portions in the steamer basket and set it over a pot of simmering water. Cover the basket with a lid and steam for 5-7 minutes or until the dish is heated through.
For a crispy texture, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the eggs benedict on the toaster oven tray and heat for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your eggs benedict quickly and efficiently. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover portions in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-5 minutes or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
Random Fact About Vegetarian Eggs Benedict
Eggs Benedict is a popular brunch dish that originated in New York City. It is believed to have been created in the late 1800s at the Waldorf Hotel. The dish was named after a regular customer, Mrs. LeGrand Benedict, who wanted something new for lunch. The chef, Oscar Tschirky, came up with the combination of poached eggs, ham, and hollandaise sauce on an English muffin. Over time, variations of the dish have been created, including vegetarian versions that use ingredients like avocado, spinach, or mushrooms in place of the traditional ham.
Is This Vegetarian Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This vegetarian eggs benedict recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as eggs, spinach, and avocado, are reasonably priced and widely available. The hollandaise sauce can be made from basic pantry staples, making it budget-friendly. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and deliciousness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it an economical yet impressive option for a homemade brunch.
Is This Vegetarian Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This vegetarian eggs benedict recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:
Healthy elements:
- Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium
- Avocado provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and potassium
- Eggs are a great source of protein, vitamins D and B12, and choline
Less healthy aspects:
- The hollandaise sauce is high in saturated fat and calories due to the butter and egg yolks
- English muffins are typically made from refined flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain options
- The recipe doesn't include a significant source of complex carbohydrates or a variety of vegetables
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter in the hollandaise sauce or use a yogurt-based alternative to lower the saturated fat content
- Opt for whole grain or sprouted English muffins to increase fiber and nutrient intake
- Add more vegetables to the dish, such as roasted tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or a side salad, to boost the overall nutrient profile and provide a wider range of vitamins and minerals
- Use a cooking spray or a smaller amount of olive oil when sautéing the spinach to reduce the total fat content
- Poach the eggs in water without adding vinegar, as vinegar is not necessary for the poaching process and can slightly alter the taste
By incorporating these changes, you can enhance the nutritional value of the dish while still enjoying the classic flavors of eggs benedict. Remember, moderation is key, and this recipe can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Editor's Thoughts on This Vegetarian Eggs Benedict Recipe
The vegetarian eggs benedict recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dish. The hollandaise sauce is rich and velvety, complementing the creamy avocado and perfectly poached eggs. The addition of sautéed spinach adds a fresh and nutritious element, while the English muffins provide a satisfying base. The flavors and textures come together harmoniously, making this dish a standout option for a special brunch or breakfast. Overall, it's a well-balanced and flavorful vegetarian take on a beloved classic.
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Why trust this Vegetarian Eggs Benedict Recipe:
This vegetarian eggs benedict recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic dish, catering to a diverse range of dietary preferences. The rich and velvety hollandaise sauce is skillfully crafted, ensuring a luscious texture and delightful flavor. The use of avocado adds a creamy and nutritious element, elevating the dish's health profile. Additionally, the careful poaching of the eggs guarantees a perfect, runny yolk, enhancing the overall indulgence. With the incorporation of vibrant baby spinach and the aromatic touch of garlic, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a trustworthy and delectable choice.
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