Eggs in Purgatory (Italian Style) Recipe

Looking for a simple yet flavorful dinner idea? Try this Eggs in Purgatory recipe – an Italian classic that combines eggs, chickpeas, tomato sauce, and spinach for a delicious, hearty meal. This easy one-pan dish is packed with protein and nutrients, making it the perfect weeknight dinner. The soft, runny egg yolks paired with savory tomato sauce create a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. Serve with crusty baguette slices for dipping and a sprinkle of fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small red onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
• 1 can (15 ounces) reduced-sodium chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 jar (24 ounces) good-quality tomato pasta sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon sweet red pepper
• 5 ounces baby spinach
• 4 large fresh eggs
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Baguette slices (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook onions and garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add chickpeas and sauce: Stir in the chickpeas, tomato pasta sauce, salt, oregano, and red pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Add spinach: Stir in the baby spinach and cook for an additional 1 minute, until wilted.
5. Add eggs: Using a spoon, make four small indentations in the sauce. Crack an egg into each indentation. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the eggs and sauce.
6. Bake: Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the egg whites are set, but the yolks are still soft.
7. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil. Serve with slices of toasted baguette for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful, comforting meal!

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Tips

• Adjusting egg doneness: If you prefer your egg yolks firmer, bake for a few extra minutes.
• Watch the heat: Keep the skillet over medium heat to avoid burning the garlic or tomato sauce.
• Use a cast iron skillet: A cast iron skillet is perfect for even heat distribution and can go directly from the stovetop to the oven.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian option: This dish is already vegetarian, but you can add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added texture.
• Spicy version: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
• Cheese options: Swap Parmesan for feta, mozzarella, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Beans: You can replace chickpeas with white beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, for a creamy texture.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the tomato and chickpea sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply heat it and add the eggs.

Can I use canned spinach?
Fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe, but if using canned spinach, be sure to drain it thoroughly and reduce the cooking time.

Can I cook the eggs on the stovetop instead of in the oven?
Yes, you can cover the skillet with a lid and cook the eggs on low heat for about 5–7 minutes, but the texture might differ slightly.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad of mixed greens for a light, refreshing contrast.
• For a heartier meal, pair with roasted vegetables or a side of quinoa.
• Enjoy with a glass of red wine, like a Chianti or a light Italian Pinot Noir, for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The combination of chickpeas, tomato sauce, and eggs creates a rich, hearty dish that’s full of flavor.
• Simple and nutritious: This dish is full of wholesome ingredients, from the protein-packed eggs to the fiber-rich chickpeas and spinach.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this is a great option for a satisfying meal on a busy weeknight.
• Comforting: With its savory sauce and perfectly cooked eggs, this dish will feel like a warm hug on a plate.

Enjoy the classic flavors of Italy with this comforting Eggs in Purgatory recipe!