Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 12 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
These egg white bites with bell pepper, spinach, and feta are a delicious and nutritious addition to any holiday brunch, easy to prepare, and packed with flavor.
As the brisk fall air in New York City begins to cool, my thoughts gravitate toward heartwarming gatherings with family and friends, especially with Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner. There’s something both nourishing and festive about egg white bites. They’re the perfect, elegant addition to any holiday brunch table or cozy morning-after feast. Plus, I love that this recipe is not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavor and nutrition.
A Perfect Make-Ahead Brunch Dish
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy mornings or holiday gatherings.
- A nutritious option packed with protein and veggies, ideal for health-conscious eaters.
- Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
- Make-ahead friendly, perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
- A beautiful addition to your brunch table that impresses guests.
Ingredients
Gather these simple and fresh ingredients to create your egg white bites.
Main Ingredients
- 6 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking vegetables)
- Optional: fresh herbs like dill or parsley for garnish
How to Make Egg White Bites with Bell Pepper, Spinach, and Feta (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to whip up your delicious egg white bites.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure that the egg bites bake evenly, achieving golden edges and moist centers.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a sauté pan over medium heat, I add the olive oil. Once shimmering, I toss in the diced bell peppers and chopped spinach, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender and fragrant.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Whites
While the vegetables cool, I whisk the egg whites in a mixing bowl until frothy, achieving that light and airy texture essential for the bites.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once cooled, I fold the sautéed veggies into the whisked egg whites along with the crumbled feta, seasoning with salt and pepper for flavor.
Step 5: Prepare Muffin Tin
I generously grease my muffin tin with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
I evenly distribute the egg mixture into the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Then, I bake them in the oven for approximately 18-20 minutes, until the egg whites are set and the edges are slightly puffed.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After removing the muffin tin from the oven, I allow the bites to cool for a few minutes. Then, I run a knife around the edges and gently pop them out, serving warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbeating the Egg Whites: While you want them frothy, whisking them too much can lead to a grainy texture.
- Skipping the Sauté Step: Raw vegetables can release moisture during baking, making your bites soggy. Always sauté them first!
- Not Greasing the Muffin Tin: Avoid the disappointment of sticking by greasing the tin thoroughly, especially if using a metal pan.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment by adding different vegetables like diced tomatoes or mushrooms for variety.
- Incorporate spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to elevate the flavor profile.
- For a seasonal twist, try adding chopped cooked turkey or leftover holiday ham for a post-Thanksgiving treat.
Variations
- Use different cheeses such as cheddar or goat cheese.
- Add cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier version.
- Substitute the spinach with kale or swiss chard.
- Experiment with adding different herbs like basil or thyme.
How to Serve
- Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
- Accompany with a side of salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
- Enjoy cold as a quick snack or on-the-go breakfast.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the egg white mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storage: These egg white bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds before serving, or enjoy them cold for a quick snack.
- Freezing: These bites can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Each time I make these egg white bites, I find new ways to enjoy them. They’re incredibly versatile, and nothing beats the comforting feeling of sharing a delicious, healthful dish with loved ones during the holiday season. You might find that they become a staple in your kitchen even beyond the festive months!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 12 bites · Serving Size: 1 bite
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~70 calories · 6g protein · 1g carbs · 4g fat
Nutritious Egg White Bites with Spinach and Feta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure egg bites bake evenly.
- In a sauté pan over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, add diced bell peppers and chopped spinach, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy.
- Fold the sautéed veggies into the whisked egg whites, add crumbled feta, and season with salt and pepper.
- Grease muffin tin with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pour the egg mixture into muffin cups, filling them three-quarters full. Bake for 18-20 minutes until set.
- Cool for a few minutes, then run a knife around the edges and pop out the bites to serve warm.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Yes, you can use whole eggs if you prefer a richer flavor and texture. Just remember that the recipe will yield a denser bite.
2. How can I customize the flavors of the egg white bites?
You can experiment with different vegetables, cheeses, or spices to match your taste. Diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder can add great flavor!
3. Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! These egg white bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for meal prep.
4. What is the best way to reheat the egg white bites?
The best way to reheat them is in the microwave for about 30 seconds. You can also enjoy them cold as a quick snack!
5. Why is sautéing the vegetables important?
Sautéing the vegetables helps to remove excess moisture, preventing the egg bites from becoming soggy, and enhances their flavor as they become tender and aromatic.
