Lemon & Basil Eggs Over Foccacia

If you are looking for a different kind of brunch recipe - not the typical quiche or casserole, then this one is right up your alley!

I printed this Giada De Laurentiis recipe out over a year ago, after Hubby and I had watched her make this in a "Breakfast in Bed" episode on the Food Network

I always love the combination of lemon and basil and it is wonderful in this dish.  The Parmesan adds a delicious layer of flavor.  The egg mixture is creamy and contrasts perfectly with the crunchy bread surrounding it.

I actually used ciabatta instead of foccacia and we loved it, though I am sure foccacia would be great as well. I really think any thick bread would work just fine.

Lemon & Basil Eggs Over Foccacia

1 large loaf foccacia bread
2 tablespoons Meyer lemon olive oil, or 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil combined with 1 teaspoon lemon juice
3 eggs
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup milk
 
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Cut the top off the foccacia and hollow out the bread inside. Tear the top of the foccacia and the inside bread into 1-inch pieces and save for the egg mixture. Brush the inside of the foccacia with the Meyer lemon olive oil. Place on a baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the basil, cheese, salt, pepper, and milk. Whisk lightly. Stir in up to 4 cups of the bread pieces.

Carefully pour the egg mixture into the toasted foccacia bottom. Return to the oven and bake until the eggs have cooked, about 35 to 40 minutes.

Cut the baked foccacia into 6 to 8 pieces and serve immediately.