Winter Warm-Up Foods

Every year, I forget how cold winter can get – and I feel like this one is going to be colder than ever, at least in New York! When it comes to staying toasty through the winter, there’s nothing like a warm breakfast to start the day. As the “World’s Fastest Omelet Maker,” I’m always a fan of kicking off the day with a quick and easy omelet, but during these arctic winter months, I also look to baked egg breakfast dishes. The ultimate comfort food, baked egg dishes are an affordable way to stay energized and satisfied throughout the day. Below is one of my favorite dishes, from the American Egg Board, which can be made ahead for a quick breakfast the next morning. What are your favorite winter stay-warm tricks? Feel free to share additional recipes that help you survive the winter chill!

Benedict Strata

Serves 6

Ingredients

• 1 package (12 oz.) English muffins
• 6 slices (4 oz.) Canadian bacon, chopped
• 6 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups skim or low-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons reduced-fat mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Chives, optional
• Halved lemon slices, optional

Preparation

Split muffins and cut into cubes.  Alternate even layers of muffin cubes and ham in lightly greased 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.

In a medium bowl, beat together the remaining ingredients except chives until well blended. Pour evenly over muffin-ham mixture.  Cover.  Refrigerate several hours or overnight.

Uncover.  Bake in preheated 350° F oven until golden brown and knife inserted near center comes out clean, about 50 to 60 minutes.

Garnish with chives and lemon slices, if desired.

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