Imagine starting your day not with the usual cereal or toast, but with a bowl of warm, buttery pasta. Inspired by a unique recipe from Food52, I recently tried making breakfast pasta, a dish that cleverly combines the comforting textures and flavors reminiscent of both breakfast and dinner. The recipe is straightforward and brings a delightful touch of the Italian classic, carbonara, into the first meal of the day.

The ingredients are simple, reflecting the essence of an uncomplicated yet satisfying meal. You’ll need:

• Kosher salt
• Dry short-cut pasta, such as shells or elbows
• Salted butter
• A large egg
• Everything bagel spice

The process is just as straightforward. Start by boiling the pasta until it’s slightly past al dente — this adds to the dish’s comfort food vibe. After draining, toss the pasta back in the hot pot with butter, then crack an egg directly into it, stirring vigorously.

The residual heat cooks the egg, creating a glossy, creamy sauce. A sprinkle of everything bagel spice before serving adds a flavorful edge, making each bite a delightful surprise.

I love this breakfast pasta because of its simplicity and the subtle nod to carbonara with the use of egg as the sauce base. It’s a refreshing change from the typical breakfast fare, and its creamy texture paired with the savory spice mix makes it irresistibly delicious. While the current recipe is quite basic, its simplicity is what makes it so appealing. In future iterations, I plan to add ingredients like spinach or chicken to boost the protein and fiber content, making it a more nutrient-dense meal that still retains its effortless charm.

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the egg, an ingredient celebrated for its versatility and health benefits. Here are six reasons why incorporating eggs into your diet is a smart choice:

1. Rich in High-Quality Protein: Eggs are an excellent source of complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and building.
2. Brain Health: They are packed with choline, a nutrient that’s crucial for brain development and function.
3. Eye Health: Eggs contain lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that help prevent macular degeneration and cataracts.
4. Heart Health: Contrary to old beliefs, recent studies show that moderate egg consumption does not significantly impact heart disease risk in healthy individuals.
5. Weight Management: High in protein and low in calories, eggs can increase feelings of fullness and help with weight management.
6. Nutrient-Rich: They are a source of vitamins A, B, E, and K, alongside minerals such as iron and selenium.

This breakfast pasta from Food52 not only brought a novel culinary experience to my morning routine but also highlighted the incredible adaptability of eggs. As a dish that’s both simple and delicious, it provides a comforting start to the day with a gourmet twist. Whether you stick to the recipe or add your own creative flair, it’s sure to transform your breakfast into a meal worth waking up for.