Savory French Toasts with Spinach and Mushrooms

Introduction

When it comes to elevating your breakfast routine, Savory French Toasts with Spinach and Mushrooms offer a flavorful twist on the classic sweet version. Imagine golden-brown slices of bread dipped in a rich, eggy batter infused with herbs and spices, then topped with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and a sprinkle of cheese. This savory take on French toast is perfect for those who prefer something hearty and savory to start their day.

I absolutely love making this dish on lazy weekend mornings when I want something comforting yet wholesome. There’s something special about the process of cooking this meal, from the aroma of the sautéing mushrooms to the sight of the vibrant green spinach wilting down. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms combined with the mild bitterness of the spinach creates a delicious balance, perfectly complemented by the richness of the eggy bread.

What I really appreciate about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily swap in different greens or cheeses based on what you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover ingredients. Plus, it feels like a little indulgence, especially when shared with loved ones. Imagine gathering around the table, everyone digging into their plates of Savory French Toasts, chatting and enjoying each other’s company.

This dish not only satisfies those morning cravings but also sets a cozy tone for the day ahead. So, if you’re looking to switch things up and treat yourself to a wholesome yet indulgent breakfast, give these Savory French Toasts with Spinach and Mushrooms a try! I promise they’ll become a new favorite in your breakfast lineup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are several reasons to fall in love with Savory French Toasts with Spinach and Mushrooms:

• Deliciously Unique Twist: This recipe takes traditional French toast and elevates it with savory flavors, making it a delightful change from sweet versions.
• Packed with Nutrients: The combination of spinach and mushrooms adds vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, creating a nutritious meal.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy mornings or a simple brunch with friends.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner; this savory French toast fits any meal occasion.
• Customizable Ingredients: Swap in your favorite vegetables or add cheese to personalize the dish according to your taste.
• Satisfying and Filling: The hearty ingredients ensure this dish is filling and satisfying, keeping you energized throughout the day.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of spinach and mushrooms create a beautiful plate, making it an impressive dish for guests.
• Comfort Food: The warm, toasted bread combined with sautéed vegetables delivers the comforting, homey feel of classic comfort food.
• Perfect Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or fresh fruit, providing a balanced and wholesome meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and reheat for quick, satisfying meals throughout the week!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 280 calories per serving
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbohydrates: 35g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your Savory French Toasts with Spinach and Mushrooms:

For the French Toast:

• 8 slices of thick bread (preferably day-old, such as brioche or sourdough)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for cooking

For the Spinach and Mushroom Topping:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms (button or cremini work well)
• 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Bread: The best bread for French toast is a thicker variety, like brioche, sourdough, or even a rustic loaf.
• Spinach and Mushrooms: These vegetables bring a wonderful earthiness to the dish while adding nutrients.
• Egg Mixture: The blend of eggs, milk, and herbs gives the bread that perfect custardy texture and savory flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Savory French Toasts with Spinach and Mushrooms is simple and fun! Follow these easy steps:

1st Step: Prepare the Egg Mixture

• In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dried thyme or oregano until well combined.

2nd Step: Soak the Bread

• Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Let the bread sit for a minute to absorb the mixture.

3rd Step: Cook the French Toast

• Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the soaked bread slices in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Keep the cooked French toast warm in the oven while you prepare the topping.

4th Step: Sauté the Spinach and Mushrooms

• In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 minutes until soft. Then add the mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes, until they release their moisture and become golden.
• Add the fresh spinach (or thawed, drained frozen spinach), and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5th Step: Assemble the Dish

• Place two slices of French toast on each plate, then spoon the sautéed spinach and mushroom mixture over the top. If desired, sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve

Here are some ideas for how to serve Savory French Toasts with Spinach and Mushrooms:

• Top with Poached Eggs: Place a perfectly poached egg on each slice for a deliciously runny yolk that enhances the flavor.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a burst of freshness and color.
• Drizzle with Hot Sauce: Add a few drops of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick that complements the savory elements.
• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair with a light mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the toast.
• Accompany with Sautéed Tomatoes: Serve alongside sautéed cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and acidity that brightens the dish.
• Add Cheese: Top with grated cheese, like feta or Parmesan, and place under the broiler for a few minutes until melted and bubbly.
• Offer a Yogurt Dip: Serve with a side of Greek yogurt mixed with herbs for a creamy and tangy contrast.
• Pair with Avocado: Add slices of avocado on the side or atop the toast for a creamy texture and healthy fat.
• Present on a Platter: Arrange the toast on a large platter for a beautiful presentation at brunch or a gathering.
• Serve with Sliced Fresh Fruit: Complement the savory flavors with a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or berries, for a refreshing contrast.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Savory French Toasts with Spinach and Mushrooms turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use Stale Bread: For the best texture, use slightly stale bread. It absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.
2. Experiment with Bread Types: Try different types of bread, such as sourdough, whole grain, or brioche, for unique flavors and textures.
3. Add Cheese: Incorporate grated cheese, like Parmesan or feta, into the egg mixture or sprinkle it on top while cooking for added richness.
4. Season the Egg Mixture: Don’t forget to season your egg mixture with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or oregano to enhance the flavor.
5. Sauté Veggies First: Sauté the spinach and mushrooms until they’re well-cooked and any moisture has evaporated to prevent sogginess.
6. Cook on Medium Heat: Maintain a medium heat when cooking the French toasts to ensure they cook evenly and develop a golden-brown crust.
7. Try Different Greens: Substitute spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard for variety and added nutrition.
8. Add a Touch of Garlic: Sauté some minced garlic with the mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
9. Top with a Fried Egg: For a protein boost and a beautiful presentation, top each French toast with a sunny-side-up or poached egg.
10. Serve with a Dipping Sauce: Create a dipping sauce by mixing Greek yogurt with lemon juice and herbs for a refreshing accompaniment.

Recipe Variations

Here are some fun ways to customize your Savory French Toasts with Spinach and Mushrooms:

• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add a layer of your favorite cheese, such as goat cheese, feta, or mozzarella, between the layers of bread for a creamy and flavorful twist.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil into the egg mixture for an aromatic flavor boost.
• Savory Breakfast Sandwich: Use the savory French toasts as a base for a breakfast sandwich by adding a fried egg and crispy turkey bacon.
• Tomato Addition: Top the French toast with fresh sliced tomatoes or a homemade tomato salsa for a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Avocado Spread: Spread mashed avocado on the toast before adding the spinach and mushrooms for a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Smoked Salmon: For a sophisticated touch, add slices of smoked salmon on top of the finished dish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
• Pesto Twist: Spread a layer of basil pesto on the toast before adding the spinach and mushrooms for a herby, savory punch.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the egg mixture to give the dish some heat.
• Sweet Potato Version: Replace regular bread with slices of roasted sweet potatoes for a gluten-free and nutrient-packed option.
• Creamy Sauce Drizzle: Top with a drizzle of creamy garlic or Alfredo sauce for an indulgent finish that enhances the overall flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Here’s how to store any leftovers or make-ahead portions of your Savory French Toasts:

• Storage: Store leftover French toast and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked French toast slices by layering them with parchment paper and sealing in a ziplock bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or oven.

Special Equipment

Though this recipe doesn’t require anything fancy, here are a few items that can make your cooking experience easier:

• Skillet or Frying Pan: Essential for cooking the French toasts evenly, preferably a non-stick or cast-iron skillet.
• Mixing Bowl: For whisking together the eggs, milk, and seasonings to create the custard mixture.
• Whisk: Handy for beating the egg mixture until smooth and well combined.
• Spatula: Useful for flipping the French toasts without breaking them and for serving.
• Sharp Knife: Needed for slicing the mushrooms and any additional toppings or garnishes.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping vegetables.
• Oven (Optional): If you prefer to keep the French toasts warm while cooking in batches, an oven can be used to maintain temperature.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring out liquids and dry ingredients for the custard and toppings.
• Grater or Microplane: For grating cheese, if you choose to add cheese on top of the French toasts for extra flavor.
• Serving Platter: Perfect for presenting the finished French toasts in an appealing way, making them ready for serving.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Savory French Toasts with Spinach and Mushrooms:

• Can I use gluten-free bread?
  Yes, gluten-free bread works great for this recipe! Just ensure it’s thick enough to absorb the egg mixture.
• Can I make this dish vegan?
  To make it vegan, use a plant-based milk and egg substitute for the batter, and swap the butter for olive oil or a vegan alternative.
• What other vegetables can I use?
  You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes to the spinach and mushroom mix for extra flavor and color.
• How can I make it spicier?
  Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.

Print

Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try making Savory French Toasts with Spinach and Mushrooms! This delightful dish offers a unique twist on traditional French toast, transforming it into a savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning at home or hosting a brunch gathering, these toasts are sure to impress.

Feel free to get creative with your toppings and ingredients—add some crumbled feta, a sprinkle of herbs, or even a poached egg for an extra touch of decadence. The possibilities are endless!

Once you whip up your own version, I’d love to see how it turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and share it on social media, tagging me so I can celebrate your delicious creation. Your thoughts and experiences are invaluable, so feel free to drop a comment about what you loved or any variations you tried.

Enjoy the process of cooking, and may each bite of your Savory French Toasts bring a smile to your face! Happy cooking!