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French Toast with Pesto

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#### **Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Pesto Mixture**:
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, pesto, a pinch of salt, and pepper. If you want a more decadent version, you can add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Whisk until fully combined and smooth.

2. **Heat the Pan**:
Place a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter or olive oil. Allow the butter to melt and heat the pan.

3. **Dip the Bread**:
Dip each slice of bread into the pesto-egg mixture, making sure both sides are fully coated. Let the bread soak in the mixture for a few seconds, but avoid leaving it in too long, as you want the bread to hold its shape while cooking.

4. **Cook the French Toast**:
Place the coated bread slices onto the heated pan. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat slightly to ensure the toast doesn’t burn while allowing it to cook through.

5. **Serve and Customize**:
Once the French toast is perfectly crispy and golden, remove it from the pan and place it on a plate. You can serve the French toast on its own, or get creative with your toppings.

#### **Optional Toppings and Additions**:
– **Fresh Greens**: Add a handful of fresh arugula, spinach, or basil on top for a burst of freshness and color.
– **Sliced Tomatoes**: A few slices of juicy, ripe tomatoes add a refreshing contrast to the rich pesto.
– **Poached or Fried Egg**: Top your French toast with a poached or fried egg for a more filling and hearty meal.
– **Balsamic Glaze**: Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top for a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the pesto.
– **Mozzarella or Goat Cheese**: If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some fresh mozzarella or crumbled goat cheese on top for extra creaminess.

### Tips for Perfect French Toast with Pesto

– **Use Stale Bread**: For the best French toast, use slightly stale bread, as it absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.
– **Customize the Pesto**: You can use different types of pesto, such as classic basil pesto, sun-dried tomato pesto, or even arugula pesto, depending on your preferences. You can even make your own homemade pesto for an extra special touch.
– **Make It Gluten-Free**: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply use gluten-free bread to make this recipe.
– **Add Protein**: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, bacon, or even smoked salmon on top of the French toast.
– **Balance the Flavor**: The richness of the pesto can be balanced with a touch of acidity, like fresh lemon juice or a light drizzle of balsamic vinegar.

### Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Meal

**French Toast with Pesto** is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for a savory brunch, a weekend breakfast, or even a light lunch or dinner. The crispiness of the toast, combined with the rich, herby pesto and the optional toppings, creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to please both savory and sweet breakfast lovers.

Because it’s so easy to customize, you can tailor the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or experiment with different flavors to keep things interesting. Whether you prefer a classic pesto with Parmesan, a zesty sun-dried tomato pesto, or a creamy goat cheese topping, there’s no limit to how you can make this dish your own.

### Conclusion

**French Toast with Pesto** is a delightful savory twist on a breakfast classic that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With its crispy, golden-brown toast, flavorful pesto, and endless customization options, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it for brunch with friends, making it for a quick weeknight dinner, or just enjoying it as a hearty breakfast, this savory French toast is guaranteed to satisfy.

So next time you’re in the mood for something a little different, skip the syrup and give this savory French toast with pesto a try—you won’t regret it!

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