Name: Savory French Toast with Fresh Herbs for a Unique Twist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 slices Challah Bread or Baguette (Use day-old for best texture.); 1 cup Milk (Unsweetened almond milk as a dairy-free option.); 4 large Eggs (Acts as the binding agent.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme (Can use dried if fresh isn't available.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Can substitute with onion powder.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances overall flavor.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust according to taste.); 3 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (For frying; butter can be used.); 1 cup Arugula (Adds peppery freshness.); 1 avocado Sliced Avocado (Enhances nutrition.); 2 eggs Fried or Soft-Boiled Eggs (Optional for richness.)

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about French toast, yet here, we’re taking that comforting dish to new savory heights. Imagine enjoying Easy Savory French Toast with Fresh Herbs, a fantastic twist that transforms your breakfast routine into a flavor-packed, satisfying experience! Not only is this recipe incredibly simple to whip up, but it also doubles as a wonderfully versatile option for brunch or even a light dinner. By using just a few fresh herbs and a perfectly cooked egg, you’ll create a dish that’s both delicious and dairy-free—perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. Curious how to bring this delightful dish to your table? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is Savory French Toast So Special?

Unique Twist: By swapping sweet for savory, this recipe transforms traditional French toast into an exciting meal option your taste buds will thank you for.
Herb-Infused Goodness: Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme elevate the flavor, providing a fresh and aromatic experience that complements the eggs beautifully.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious breakfast or brunch ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings.
Dairy-Free Delight: Using almond milk or other milk alternatives makes this dish suitable for guests with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can savor each bite.
Versatile Toppings: Customize your French toast with toppings like arugula or avocado for added nutrition and to suit your preferences, making every meal unique!
This delectable dish is an ideal way to shake up your morning routine. If you’re looking for more inventive breakfast ideas, be sure to check out my Dairy-Free Smoothie Bowl for a quick and healthy start to your day!

French Toast Ingredients

• Unlock the secret to the perfect savory French toast!

For the Base

Challah Bread or Baguette – Ideal for soaking; use day-old for the best texture.
Milk – Creates a creamy custard; unsweetened almond milk is a fantastic dairy-free option.
Eggs – Acts as the binding agent, ensuring a rich and custardy base.

For the Flavor

Fresh Parsley – Adds a vibrant herbaceous twist; basil makes a tasty substitute.
Fresh Thyme – Provides an aromatic earthiness; dried thyme can suffice if fresh isn’t available.
Garlic Powder – Contributes savory depth; feel free to swap it with onion powder if desired.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Black Pepper – Adds a touch of spice; adjust according to your taste.

For Cooking

Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying, giving a perfect crisp; butter can be used if preferred.

Optional Toppings

Arugula – Adds a peppery freshness to your dish.
Sliced Avocado – Brings creaminess and enhances nutrition.
Fried or Soft-Boiled Eggs – Elevate your French toast experience with a delightful richness.

Elevate your breakfast game with this easy French toast recipe that guarantees delicious, savory bites. Enjoy the unique flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Savory French Toast with Fresh Herbs

Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by heating 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, signaling that it’s ready for frying. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crisp on your Easy Savory French Toast.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 cup of milk (or your preferred dairy-free alternative), 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix well until the egg yolks are fully incorporated and the mixture is slightly frothy, creating a rich custard-like batter to soak the bread.

Step 3: Soak the Bread
Take slices of challah bread or baguette, ideally a day old for the best texture. Dip each slice into the egg mixture for 10-30 seconds per side, depending on their thickness and dryness. The goal is to fully saturate the bread without making it too soggy, so it retains its shape during cooking.

Step 4: Fry the French Toast
Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully lay the soaked bread slices in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Watch for a beautiful golden color to develop, creating that delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft.

Step 5: Transfer to Serving Plate
After frying, gently transfer the cooked French toast to a serving plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil while keeping the French toast warm. Continue frying the remaining soaked slices, ensuring to keep an eye on the cooking time for consistent results.

Step 6: Add Optional Toppings
Serve your Easy Savory French Toast warm, topped with fresh arugula, slices of creamy avocado, and a perfectly fried or soft-boiled egg if desired. Customize your plate to enhance flavor and nutrition, creating a delectable meal that invites everyone to the table. Enjoy the wonderful combination of textures and tastes!

How to Store and Freeze French Toast

Fridge: Store leftover French toast in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster for the best results.

Freezer: Allow French toast to cool completely, then wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap. Store in a zip-lock freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen French toast, thaw overnight in the fridge, then toast in a toaster or warm in a skillet until heated through for a crispy texture.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving French toast at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent any food safety issues.

Expert Tips for Savory French Toast

Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the bread; it should sizzle upon contact for best crispiness.

Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Fry in batches if necessary for perfectly golden French toast.

Saturation Time: Don’t soak the bread too long; 10-30 seconds per side is ideal depending on the bread’s thickness to prevent sogginess.

Use Day-Old Bread: For optimal texture, use bread that’s 1-2 days old. Fresh bread may become too mushy during soaking.

Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with various toppings like arugula or sliced avocado to create a unique twist on your savory French toast experience!

What to Serve with Easy Savory French Toast?

Elevate your meal with delightful sides that create a comforting and balanced experience.

Fresh Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the savory French toast.
Sautéed Spinach: Adding sautéed spinach delivers a nutrient boost and a vibrant pop of color, making each bite more enjoyable.
Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon makes a wonderful pairing, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your brunch.
Roasted Tomatoes: Sweet, roasted tomatoes provide juicy bursts of flavor that beautifully complement each savory bite.
Potato Wedges: Golden, crunchy potato wedges on the side add heartiness and fun texture, perfect for dipping in an egg yolk.
Chilled Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast, bringing balance to the savory richness of your dish.
Herbed Yogurt Dip: A dollop of herbed yogurt elevates flavors while offering a creamy element that pairs deliciously with the French toast.
Chai-Spiced Latte: Warm up your meal with a chai-spiced latte that harmonizes with the comforting essence of French toast.
Apple Cinnamon Compote: A warm, spiced apple compote adds a delightful sweetness that can be drizzled or spooned over the toast for extra indulgence.
Lemonade Spritzer: A refreshing lemonade spritzer acts as a bright, bubbly contrast, enhancing the entire dining experience with a fizzy touch.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Savory French Toast slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can whisk together the egg batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, ensuring the fresh herbs infuse their flavors. Additionally, you can soak the bread slices in the custard mixture and refrigerate them overnight; this not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil in a skillet and fry your prepped French toast slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. This preparation ensures you can enjoy a delicious, stress-free breakfast or brunch, just as tasty as when made fresh!

French Toast Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your imagination run wild and customize your savory French toast experience to suit your cravings!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread alternatives like almond or coconut flour bread for a delicious twist that everyone can enjoy.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and almond milk for a vegan-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Herb Medley: Swap in fresh dill, chives, or even cilantro to explore exciting flavor profiles that will keep your palate intrigued.
Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded dairy-free cheese on the French toast when frying for a delightful, melty experience.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the egg mixture for those who crave a little heat.
Sautéed Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or spinach into the frying pan alongside your French toast for added texture and nutrients.
Sweet Heat: Finish off with a drizzle of hot honey to combine the savory French toast with a touch of sweetness and spice.

And if you’re looking for more flavor-packed ideas, don’t miss out on exploring my Dairy-Free Smoothie Bowl! Your breakfast journey is just beginning!

Easy Savory French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for savory French toast?
The best bread for savory French toast is a dense bread like challah or baguette, preferably day-old. Stale bread holds up well when soaked in the custard mixture, providing a delightful texture without becoming overly soggy.

How long can I store leftover French toast in the fridge?
Leftover savory French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet or toaster until heated through, allowing you to enjoy the crispy edges once again!

Can I freeze savory French toast, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your savory French toast, allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Then, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-lock freezer bag. This method ensures they maintain their quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a toaster or skillet.

What should I do if the French toast turns out soggy?
If your savory French toast is soggy, it may be due to soaking the bread for too long or using very fresh bread. For better results, limit soaking time to 10-30 seconds per side and use bread that’s at least 1-2 days old to avoid excess moisture. If it happens, simply place the soggy piece back on the skillet for a few minutes to help firm it up again!

Is this savory French toast suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This recipe is dairy-free as it uses almond milk or any dairy-free milk substitute, making it friendly for those with lactose intolerance. You can also easily customize ingredients based on specific dietary concerns—just be mindful of the toppings or any substitute ingredients.

Can I add different herbs or spices?
Very! Feel free to customize your savory French toast with a variety of fresh herbs or spices. Options like chives, dill, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add wonderful flavor twists. I often enjoy experimenting with different combinations based on what I have on hand!