Name: Savory French Toast: A Delicious Herb-Infused Twist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 slices Challah Bread (Aged bread (1-2 days old) works best.); 1 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk (Dairy-free option.); 3 large Eggs (Essential for custard base.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped.); 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (Enhances savory flavor.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Optional; adds depth.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Essential seasoning.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Used for frying; can substitute with butter.); 1 cup Arugula (Adds freshness.); 1 whole Sliced Avocado (Offers creamy richness.); 2 large Fried or Soft-Boiled Eggs (Optional, adds protein.)

As I stood by the stove, the tantalizing aroma of herbs wafted through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a charming café in Paris where French toast was redefined. This Easy Savory French Toast blends the comfort of a beloved classic with a fresh twist, proving that breakfast can be both quick and impressive. With a delightful combination of crispy edges and a soft, herb-infused center, this dish is perfect for any meal—whether it’s a cozy brunch or a comforting dinner. Plus, it’s dairy-free and simple to prepare, making it a guilt-free indulgence for everyone. Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game and impress your loved ones with this savory delight? Let’s dive in!

What makes this savory French toast special?

Unique Flavor Profile: This Easy Savory French Toast adds a delightful twist to a beloved classic with fresh herbs that elevate its taste. Dairy-Free Delight: Perfect for those avoiding dairy, you can easily substitute milk for unsweetened almond milk, ensuring everyone can enjoy it. Quick Preparation: With minimal time and effort, you can whip up a mouthwatering dish that’s as satisfying for dinner as it is for brunch. Versatility at Its Best: Experiment with various toppings like sliced avocado or sautéed mushrooms for added richness. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This dish appeals to everyone, turning breakfast into a gourmet experience. If you love hearty meals, you might also enjoy this delicious French Beef Stew.

French Toast Ingredients

For the Batter

Challah Bread – Aged bread (1-2 days old) works best for better egg absorption, enhancing your French toast’s texture.
Unsweetened Almond Milk – Use as a dairy-free option; any milk of choice will work if you prefer traditional dairy.
Eggs – Essential for creating the custard base that perfectly coats the bread slices.
Fresh Parsley – Provides a mild herbaceous note, adding freshness to each bite.
Fresh Thyme – Enhances the savory flavor profile; dried thyme works in a pinch if fresh isn’t on hand.
Garlic Powder (or Onion Powder) – Adds a savory depth to the batter that elevates the dish; optional based on taste.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor; adjust to your liking.
Vegetable Oil (or Butter) – Used for frying, giving the French toast its desired crispy texture; any cooking oil may be substituted.

For Optional Toppings

Arugula – Adds a peppery freshness that pairs beautifully with the savory toast.
Sliced Avocado – Offers creamy richness, making each bite even more delightful.
Fried or Soft-Boiled Eggs – Perfect for adding protein and a rich, runny yolk on top.

Embrace the delicious adventure of making this savory French toast with fresh herbs, and delight in the comforting flavors that await you!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Savory French Toast

Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Begin by placing a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of vegetable oil or a pat of butter, allowing it to melt and shimmer, which will take about 1-2 minutes. You want the skillet hot enough that a drop of water sizzles when it hits the surface, ensuring that your French toast will develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Whisk the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, unsweetened almond milk, chopped fresh parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together vigorously for about 1-2 minutes until well combined and slightly frothy. This savory batter forms the essential flavor base for your Easy Savory French Toast, infusing each slice with delightful herbaceous notes.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Take your aged challah bread and slice it into 1-inch thick pieces. Dip each slice into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are soaked for about 10-30 seconds. Allow any excess batter to drip off before moving on to the skillet, as you want the bread to be thoroughly coated yet not overly saturated, which ensures perfect textures when cooked.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast
Carefully place the soaked bread slices into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each slice for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the bottom. Once you see a lovely golden hue, flip the slices to cook the other side for a similar duration, enjoying the mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once all the slices are cooked to perfection and crispy, transfer them to a serving platter. Serve immediately, topped with fresh arugula, creamy avocado slices, or a delicious fried or soft-boiled egg for added richness. Each bite of this Easy Savory French Toast promises a warm and satisfying experience that your family and friends will adore.

French Toast Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this dish your own, using your creative flair to explore delightful twists that will excite your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk for a delicious and creamy base.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for a safe alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. Your taste buds won’t know the difference!
Herb Swap: Try using fresh basil or chives instead of parsley and thyme; they bring a unique and aromatic flair. Mixing it up keeps your meals fresh!
Flavor Boost: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese to the batter; the creaminess complements the herbs beautifully for an elevated taste experience.
Veggie Delight: Top with sautéed spinach or mushrooms for an earthy twist; this adds both flavor and nutrition to your savory toast.
Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes in the batter for a little heat, waking up those taste buds!
Savory Proteins: Serve with crispy bacon or smoked salmon to make it a heartier meal; the combination of flavors will leave your guests impressed.
Crunch Appeal: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts on top for an appealing crunch that works well with the creamy avocado.

For a cozy dinner alternative, you might also be inspired by this hearty French Beef Stew. Don’t hesitate to mix and match these ideas to create the perfect savory French toast that suits your palate!

What to Serve with Easy Savory French Toast

Indulge in a well-rounded meal that complements the crispy, herb-infused delight of your Easy Savory French Toast.

Crispy Mixed Greens: The peppery flair of arugula brings freshness and balances the rich flavors of the French toast. A light vinaigrette ties it all together beautifully.
Creamy Avocado Slices: Adds a luscious creaminess that enhances every bite, making this dish feel indulgent yet nourishing. A drizzle of lime juice elevates its appeal.
Fried Eggs: A runny yolk adds luxurious richness, creating a satisfying contrast to the crispy French toast. The egg’s warmth melds seamlessly with the herbs.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet and tangy gems burst with flavor and a slight char, providing a burst of freshness that perfectly pairs with savory notes.
Savory Mushroom Medley: Sautéed mushrooms, perhaps with garlic and thyme, introduce an earthiness that deepens the dish’s flavor profile, making it feel gourmet.
Chilled White Wine Spritzer: A refreshing drink choice that cuts through the meal’s richness, with bright citrus flavors to enhance the herbaceous tones.
Dark Chocolate Chia Pudding: For dessert, this offers a delightful contrast with its creamy texture and slight sweetness, rounding off your meal on a sophisticated note.

Expert Tips for Savory French Toast

Perfect Soak Time: Aim for a quick soak of 10-30 seconds. If you soak too long, the bread may become overly soggy and lose its desired texture.
Heat Control: Keep the skillet on medium heat. If it’s too hot, the exterior will burn while the inside remains uncooked. A consistent sizzle is key!
Use Aged Bread: Opt for day-old challah or any sturdy bread. Fresh bread might be too soft and won’t absorb the egg mixture effectively.
Customize Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like basil or chives based on your taste preferences; they add unique flavors to your savory French toast.
Add Extra Crunch: For a delightful crispy texture, sprinkle a little panko bread crumbs on the French toast before frying it in the skillet.
Keep Them Warm: If making for a crowd, keep cooked French toast warm in a low oven (about 200°F) covered with foil until ready to serve.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Savory French Toast slices are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast without the morning rush. You can prepare the egg mixture (eggs, almond milk, herbs, and spices) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can slice the challah bread a day ahead and store it in an airtight container to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to cook, simply soak the bread in the prepared mixture and fry as directed. This method ensures that each bite remains just as flavorful and tender, making your busy weeknights a breeze. Enjoy delightful breakfasts while saving precious time!

How to Store and Freeze French Toast

Room Temperature: Let the French toast cool completely before storing. Enjoy freshly made toast within 2 hours to maintain the best flavor.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for a crispy texture or in the microwave for convenience.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in foil and place them in a freezer bag. Frozen French toast will maintain quality for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen slices, bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they regain their lovely crispy edges.

Easy Savory French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for this French toast?
I highly recommend using aged challah bread, which provides a nice structure and a slight sweetness. Day-old bread, about 1-2 days old, works best because it absorbs the egg mixture without falling apart. If you prefer, you can also substitute it with sourdough or any sturdy bread that can hold up during soaking.

How can I store leftover savory French toast?
To preserve the deliciousness of your leftover French toast, let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I suggest reheating it in a skillet for the best crispiness, or if you’re in a hurry, the microwave works just fine!

Can I freeze my savory French toast?
Absolutely! Freezing is an excellent option. Just let the cooked French toast slices cool completely, then wrap them tightly in foil and store them in a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you want to serve them, preheat your oven to 350°F, unwrap the slices, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy again.

How do I troubleshoot soggy French toast?
If your French toast turns out soggy, the first thing to check is the soaking time. Aim for a quick soak of about 10-30 seconds per side. If the bread absorbs too much egg mixture, it may become overly saturated. Additionally, make sure your skillet is at the right temperature—medium heat works best to achieve that crispy exterior while cooking the inside thoroughly.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions, like dairy allergies?
Yes, this Easy Savory French Toast is designed to be dairy-free! Use unsweetened almond milk or any milk substitute that suits your dietary needs. For gluten-free options, simply swap out the bread for a gluten-free variety, and you’re good to go!

Can I add more herbs or spices?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to experiment with various fresh herbs like basil or dill to create different flavor profiles. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick if you enjoy a little heat. Just be sure to balance the flavors to keep your savory French toast delightful!