Preparation time: 5 minutes

Baking time: 15 to 25 minutes

• Baked Eggs in Ham Baskets

Years ago, I had this dish at a bed-and-breakfast near Zion National Park in Utah and I was smitten with how pretty the baskets were, yet so easy. I went home and immediately crafted my own version. Depending on the size and shape of your ham slices, you may need to cut or tear them so they form a ruffled basket for the egg. If you’re feeling especially hungry, simply double the ingredients to make four baskets. For a Southwest touch, skip the pesto and serve with a tablespoon of Mexican salsa on top.

MAKES 2 SERVINGS

• 4 very thin slices Black Forest ham (or two large slices)
• 1 small plum tomato or 4 cherry or grape tomatoes, seeded and finely diced
• 2 teaspoons store-bought pesto (optional, but adds wonderful flavor)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried), plus extra for garnish
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/16 teaspoon (pinch) salt
• 1/16 teaspoon (pinch) freshly ground black pepper

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Generously grease two of the cups of a standard 6-muffin pan.

2. Gently press 2 slices of ham into each greased cup, positioning the ham so it creates a basket within each cup. Divide the diced tomatoes, pesto (if using), and chives between the cups. Break an egg into each cup and poke the yolk with a fork. Sprinkle each egg with salt and pepper.

3. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes for soft eggs, 15 to 25 minutes for hard-cooked eggs, or until the eggs reach desired doneness. The eggs continue to cook after you remove them from the oven, so don’t overcook. Remove the baskets from the muffin cups and serve immediately, garnished with the chives.

STORE-BOUGHT PESTO Store-bought pesto is a great ingredient for small households. It perks up egg dishes like this, but it’s also great brushed on chicken while grilling, added to salad dressings, and incorporated into breakfast casseroles such as the Sausage and Egg Strata (see recipe). A jar of it keeps well in the fridge. For a dairy-free version, look for the Meditalia brand.

Per serving: 158 calories; 17g protein; 9g total fat; 1g fiber; 3g carbohydrates; 218mg cholesterol; 569mg sodium