Description
Zoodle Egg Nests are a light and healthy breakfast or brunch option featuring spiralized zucchini formed into nests and baked with eggs. This low-calorie, gluten-free dish is topped with Parmesan cheese and seasoned with salt and pepper, offering a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy veggies and protein together with minimal prep and cooking time.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 5-6 small zucchini
Seasonings and Toppings
- 1½ teaspoons salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
Other
- Cooking spray
- 6 eggs
Instructions
- Spiralize the Zucchini: Using a spiralizer, create noodles from 5-6 small zucchini. This produces the base for your zoodle nests.
- Drain and Salt the Zoodles: Place the zucchini noodles in a strainer over a plate or sink. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of salt and toss gently. This helps draw out excess moisture to avoid soggy nests.
- Squeeze Out Excess Liquid: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Wrap the salted zucchini noodles in paper towels or a cheesecloth and squeeze firmly over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible, ensuring your nests hold their shape when baked.
- Form the Nests and Add Eggs: Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Divide the zoodles into six equal portions, arranging each into 2-3 inch nests on the sheet. Carefully crack one egg into the center of each nest, creating a well for the egg to sit in.
- Season and Bake: Sprinkle the nests with the remaining 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 6-8 minutes, depending on your preferred egg doneness—6 minutes for runny yolks or up to 8 minutes for fully cooked eggs.
- Serve and Garnish: Optionally, top your egg nests with pesto, harissa, or hot sauce to add more flavor and spice. Serve warm for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Using paper towels or a cheesecloth to squeeze out liquid from the zoodles is essential to prevent soggy nests.
- Adjust baking time according to how you like your eggs—less time for runny yolks, more for firm yolks.
- You can customize toppings with herbs, spices, or sauces like pesto or hot sauce.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low in calories, making it suitable for many dietary needs.
