Name: Eggs Florentine: Elevate Your Breakfast with a Creamy Twist
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Butter (Can use dairy-free butter); 4 cups Fresh Spinach (Can swap with kale or Swiss chard); 2 large Eggs (Use the freshest eggs); 1 tablespoon White Vinegar (Helps coagulate egg whites); 2 halves English Muffins (Any toasted bread can be used); 1 cup Hollandaise Sauce (Can make a vegan version)

As I flipped through my brunch inspiration book, the vibrant greens of sautéed spinach paired with perfectly poached eggs caught my eye, instantly igniting my appetite for something elegant yet simple. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Classic Eggs Florentine. This delightful dish transforms a hectic morning into a sophisticated dining experience with just 25 minutes of preparation time. The beauty of this vegetarian breakfast lies in its ability to impress, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a luxurious meal at home. Served on toasted English muffins and drizzled with creamy hollandaise sauce, it’s a quick delight that’s sure to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire. Ready to elevate your morning routine? Let’s cook together!

Why is Eggs Florentine a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze, allowing even novice cooks to whip up a sophisticated dish in just 25 minutes.

Nutrient-Packed: Fresh spinach and poached eggs deliver a healthy dose of vitamins and protein, making this breakfast both delicious and nutritious.

Gourmet Appeal: Impress your brunch guests with beautiful plating and rich hollandaise sauce that adds a touch of luxury.

Versatile Base: Feel free to swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a delightful twist, or customize your toast with any favorite bread.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning at home or hosting a brunch party, Eggs Florentine caters to every mood—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

For more fantastic breakfast ideas, check out my recipes for Eggs Hash Brown or Mexican Eggs Benedict.

Eggs Florentine Ingredients

For the Sautéed Spinach
• Fresh Spinach – The star ingredient full of flavor and nutrients; feel free to swap with kale or Swiss chard for a different twist.
• Butter – Adds richness to the sauté; you can easily use dairy-free butter for a vegan option.

For the Poached Eggs
• Eggs – Use the freshest eggs for the best poach; the real magic happens when the yolk stays runny!
• White Vinegar – Helps egg whites coagulate during poaching; while optional, it can make a noticeable difference in egg texture.

For Serving
• English Muffins – Provides a perfect, toasted base for the dish; any toasted bread can be a delightful substitute.
• Hollandaise Sauce – The creamy sauce that makes this dish divine; you can make a vegan version using cashews or silken tofu.

Transform your mornings with a scrumptious serving of Eggs Florentine that’s perfect for both a quiet breakfast and entertaining guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggs Florentine

Step 1: Sauté the Spinach
In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted and vibrant green. For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg. Remove the skillet from heat and set the sautéed spinach aside while you prepare the poached eggs.

Step 2: Prepare the Poaching Water
Fill a medium pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to assist in coagulating the egg whites. Make sure to keep the water at a steady simmer, avoiding any rapid boiling, which can be detrimental for poached eggs.

Step 3: Poach the Eggs
Crack each egg into a small bowl to ensure easy transfer into the pot. Gently slide the eggs into the simmering water, ensuring they do not touch each other. Poach the eggs for about 3-4 minutes, until the whites are set and the yolks remain runny, revealing that lovely golden color when cut.

Step 4: Toast the English Muffins
While the eggs are poaching, toast your English muffins until golden brown and crispy. You can use a toaster or a stovetop griddle. Once toasted, place each muffin half on serving plates as a sturdy base for your delicious Eggs Florentine, waiting eagerly for the toppings to come.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Once the eggs are perfectly poached, remove them gently with a slotted spoon and let any excess water drain off. On each toasted muffin half, pile a generous portion of the sautéed spinach and then carefully place a poached egg on top. The vibrant layers are already looking scrumptious!

Step 6: Finish with Hollandaise
Finally, drizzle with warm hollandaise sauce, allowing it to coat the poached egg and spinach beautifully. This rich, creamy sauce is key to elevating your Eggs Florentine, creating a decadent layer that ties the whole dish together. Serve immediately for maximum flavor and freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Eggs Florentine are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy mornings! You can sauté the spinach up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant color and flavor. The hollandaise sauce can also be prepared ahead of time; simply store it in a jar and reheat gently before serving, whisking well to restore its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, poach the eggs fresh (ideally within an hour of serving) for that perfect runny yolk. With these simple prep steps, you can have a gourmet breakfast on the table in no time!

Eggs Florentine Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative! Customizing your Eggs Florentine can open up a world of delightful flavors and textures.

Kale Swap: Replace spinach with kale for a heartier, nutrient-packed option. It adds a delightful chewiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use dairy-free butter and a vegan hollandaise sauce made from silken tofu or cashews for a plant-based version that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Toast Variety: Instead of English muffins, try using sourdough, bagels, or even a whole grain bread for a different base that complements the toppings well.
Herb Boost: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives to your sautéed spinach for an aromatic twist. It elevates the dish with bursts of fresh flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of red pepper flakes into the hollandaise sauce to give your Eggs Florentine a little heat, balancing out the creaminess with some zesty excitement.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sneak in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes with the spinach for a tangy burst that adds vibrant color and gourmet flair to your dish.
Avocado Addition: Top your poached eggs with creamy avocado slices to add richness and a buttery texture, making it even more indulgent.
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle a light layer of goat cheese or feta on top of the spinach before adding the egg for a sumptuous and flavorful twist that complements the hollandaise perfectly.

For more inspiration, don’t miss my recipes for Eggs Hash Brown and Mexican Eggs Benedict. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Eggs Florentine

Timing is Key: Keep an eye on your cooking times! Poaching eggs can be tricky, so have your ingredients prepped and ready to minimize wait times.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the freshest eggs and spinach for the best flavor and texture. Freshness will help you achieve that perfect poached egg and vibrant spinach.
Gentle Simmer: Maintain a gentle simmer while poaching your eggs. This will help the egg whites set properly without breaking apart, giving you perfect Eggs Florentine every time.
Prepare Hollandaise Ahead: Make hollandaise sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently. Whisking it before serving will keep it smooth and creamy, elevating your dish.
Experiment with Greens: Don’t hesitate to swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard. Each green offers a unique taste, providing a delightful twist to the classic Eggs Florentine experience.

How to Store and Freeze Eggs Florentine

Fridge: Store any leftover Eggs Florentine in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the components—poached eggs, sautéed spinach, and hollandaise sauce—separate to maintain texture.

Freezer: Although it’s best to enjoy Eggs Florentine fresh, sautéed spinach can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet before serving.

Reheating: For best results, reheat sautéed spinach in a skillet over low heat. Poached eggs can be rewarmed in simmering water for about 1-2 minutes, but they’re best fresh.

Hollandaise Sauce: This sauce is ideally used fresh. If you have leftovers, store in the fridge for up to 2 days and gently reheat while whisking to restore its creaminess for your Eggs Florentine.

What to Serve with Classic Eggs Florentine

Elevate your breakfast experience with delicious sides and pairings that complement the smooth and creamy richness!

Crispy Home Fries: The crunchiness of golden-brown potatoes creates a delightful contrast with the creamy hollandaise, making every bite an adventure!
Mixed Fruit Salad: A refreshing burst of natural sweetness from seasonal fruits beautifully balances the richness of the dish, adding a vibrant splash of color.
Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread enhances the healthy element of your meal, adding a luxurious texture that pairs wonderfully with poached eggs.
Smoky Bacon: For meat lovers, the crispy and smoky flavors of bacon can offer a savory twist that complements the elegant eggs, enhancing the overall experience.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender and slightly crisp asparagus drizzled with lemon presentation makes a sophisticated side that pairs beautifully with the flavors of spinach.
Lemonade Mimosa: A refreshing and zesty drink option, the citrus notes amplify the flavors in Eggs Florentine while keeping your brunch vibrant and exciting.

Consider these pairings to make your brunch spread unforgettable!

Eggs Florentine Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best spinach for Eggs Florentine?
Absolutely! Look for fresh spinach with vibrant green leaves and no signs of wilting or dark spots. If you can, opt for organic spinach, as it tends to have more flavor and nutrients.

What is the best way to store leftover Eggs Florentine?
To keep your Eggs Florentine fresh, store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The sautéed spinach will stay good for up to 3 days, while poached eggs should be consumed within 1-2 days for optimal texture.

Can I freeze the ingredients for Eggs Florentine?
Yes, you can freeze the sautéed spinach for up to 3 months! To do so, let it cool completely, then spoon it into freezer-safe bags, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet.

What should I do if my eggs break while poaching?
Don’t worry, it happens! Start with the water at a gentle simmer but not boiling. If an egg breaks, you can carefully scoop the pieces out with a slotted spoon, and then try poaching another egg. Alternatively, you can make scrambled eggs instead—it’s still delicious!

Can I make Eggs Florentine vegan or dairy-free?
Very! To make this dish vegan, substitute fresh spinach with sautéed kale or Swiss chard and use a plant-based butter for sautéing. For hollandaise sauce, you can blend soaked cashews or silken tofu with lemon juice and nutritional yeast to create a creamy alternative.

Is it safe for pets to eat any leftovers from Eggs Florentine?
While the ingredients of Eggs Florentine, like spinach and eggs, are safe in small amounts for dogs, you should avoid giving them hollandaise sauce, as it contains butter and other seasonings that may not be healthy for pets. Always consult your vet before sharing human food with your furry friends!