35 Brunch Recipes That Wow

By Health.com
December 21, 2013
Love brunch? Here are 33 brunch recipes with wow factor: They look AND taste great. (Plus they're healthy!)
Start Slideshow

1 of 36

Brunch anyone?

Everyone loves brunch. Festive, but still casual, you can relax and really enjoy the meal. Here are 32 delicious and healthy brunch ideas that both look and taste great. Even better, these recipes are also incredibly easy to make. Whether you're looking for a quiche, frittata, French toast, muffins, eggs, or even yogurt, we've got what you need to impress your guests.

Advertisement

2 of 36

Sweet Potato Bowl with Blueberries

Christopher Testani; Food Styling: Margret Dickey; Prop Stylist: Audrey Davis

Try this recipe: Sweet Potato Bowl with Blueberries

Like a smoothie in a bowl, pureed sweet potatoes and fresh berries make this brunch fresh as well as hearty. 

Ingredients: sweet potatoes, almond butter, almond milk, ground ginger, sea salt, fresh blueberries, flaked coconut, coconut cream

Calories: 348

3 of 36

Mediterranean Frittata

Christopher Testani; Food Styling: Margret Dickey; Prop Stylist: Audrey Davis

Try this recipe: Mediterranean Frittata

Frittatas are great for their ease and convenience, and with olives and feta, this one packs in the Mediterranean zest.

Ingredients: extra-virgin olive oil, potatoes, egg whole milk, sea salt, Dijon mustard, broccoli, garlic, roasted red bell pepper, kalamata olives, fresh dill, feta cheese, apple cider vinegar, shallot, crushed red pepper

Calories: 306

Advertisement

4 of 36

Hazelnut Waffles with Blackberries

Christopher Testani; Food Styling: Margret Dickey; Prop Stylist: Audrey Davis

Try this recipe: Hazelnut Waffles with Blackberries

A base of nut meal and oat flour puts a gluten-free spin on the breakfast classic. 

Ingredients: hazelnut meal, oat flour, baking soda, sea salt, ground cardamom, almond milk, eggs, coconut oil, vanilla extract, maple syrup, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, fresh blackberries

Calories: 324

5 of 36

Cardamom-Vanilla Granola

Jennifer Causey; Food Styling: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Styling: Mindi Shapiro

Try this recipe: Cardamom-Vanilla Granola

Dig in: Nuts and seeds (use any you want) plus oats and fruit are transformed with fragrant cardamom.

Ingredients: Honey, ground cardamom, extra-virgin olive oil, vanilla extract, kosher salt, uncooked rolled oats, raw almonds, raw cashews, pumpkin seeds, unsweetened flaked coconut, cooking spray, cranberries

Calories: 265

6 of 36

Butternut-Squash Kale Hash

Try this recipe: Butternut-Squash Kale Hash

Put an egg on it: When you crave something savory, try superfood veggies topped with a crispy fried egg.

Ingredients: Unsalted butter, sweet onion, garlic, lacinto kale, kosher salt, black pepper, butternut squash, ground nutmeg, grapeseed oil, eggs

Calories: 282

Advertisement

7 of 36

Pumpkin Dutch Baby with Pears

Jennifer Causey; Food Styling: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Styling: Mindi Shapiro

Try this recipe: Pumpkin Dutch Baby with Pears

Fall for pumpkin: Take the autumn staple beyond pies by whipping up a "Dutch baby"—a super-easy baked pancake.

Ingredients: Whole milk, all-purpose flour, white whole-wheat flour, eggs, canned pumpkin, coconut sugar, unsalted butter, Bosc pears, walnuts, pumpkin pie spice, orange zest, fresh orange juice, kosher salt

Calories: 348

8 of 36

Cornmeal-Bacon Waffles with Apple Compote

Jennifer Causey; Food Styling: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Styling: Mindi Shapiro

Try this recipe: Cornmeal-Bacon Waffles with Apple Compote

Take a break: Bacon-stuffed waffles and warm fruit feel oh-so indulgent—but they're pack with healthy whole grains and fiber.

Ingredients: Buttermilk, olive oil, eggs, yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, white whole-wheat flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, kosher salt, bacon, fresh chives, cooking spray, unsalted butter, red apples, fresh thyme, kosher salt, pure maple syrup, apple cider vinegar

Calories: 465

9 of 36

Cauliflower "Grits" with Tomato-Mushroom Gravy

Jennifer Causey; Food Styling: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Styling: Mindi Shapiro

Try this recipe: Cauliflower "Grits" with Tomato-Mushroom Gravy

Add a super sauce: Give your basic grits a nutritional upgrade with a power ingredient: mushrooms.

Ingredients: Cauliflower florets, low-sodium chicken broth, fine yellow cornmeal, Cheddar cheese, grape tomatoes, unsalted butter, cremini mushrooms, kosher salt, black pepper, hot brewed coffee, cornstarch, scallions

Calories: 267

Advertisement

10 of 36

Horseradish Potatoes With Smoked Trout

Jennifer Causey; Food Styling: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Styling: Mindi Shapiro

Try this recipe: Horseradish Potatoes With Smoked Trout

Go fish: It's never too early in the morning to get in your daily dose of disease-fighting omega-3s.

Ingredients: Baby new potatoes, white vinegar, eggs, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, baby spinach, horseradish, smoked trout, lemon wedges

Calories: 263

11 of 36

Mini Smoked-Salmon Frittatas

Possibly the healthiest and most delicious brunch recipe ever created, these mini frittatas pack 17 grams of protein each, almost no carbs, and loads of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, thanks to the smoked salmon. They cook up in less than 30 minutes, so why not make them this weekend?

Try this recipe: Mini-Smoked Salmon Frittatas

12 of 36

White Peaches and Prosecco

For an irresistible, bubbly sipper, mix juicy peach slices with Prosecco in champagne flutes.

Advertisement

13 of 36

Maple-Cinnamon French Toast

Straight from New England, this recipe will be a hit at any brunch. Using vanilla extract and cinnamon will give you plenty of flavor without the added fat of butter.

Try this recipe: Maple-Cinnamon French Toast

14 of 36

Granola Yogurt Parfait

Like Greek yogurt? Of course you do. This looks good enough to be a dessert, but is, in fact, super healthy and delivers the creamy taste of Greek yogurt you crave. (Plus it's easy to make.)

Just layer 6 ounces of plain fat-free Greek yogurt with 2/3 cup granola mixed with 1/2 cup puffed wheat cereal, and 1 sliced peach.

If you use plain yogurt instead of a sugary one, you can save up to 70 calories. But it's fine to use the flavored varieties too.

Related video: How to Make Greek Yogurt Fruit Parfait  

15 of 36

Brie With Apple Slices

Just because you're having brunch, doesn't mean you have to spend ages in the kitchen whipping up eggs or flipping pancakes. This light breakfast couldn't be any simpler.

Just serve brie with apple slices (Granny Smith or other variety).
Advertisement

16 of 36

Potato-Crusted Spinach Quiche

Quiche crust is usually made from butter and flour. This version is made with shredded potatoes, which cuts fat and calories.

Try this recipe: Potato-Crusted Spinach Quiche

17 of 36

Braised Kale Frittata

Instead of your usual omelet, try this antioxidant-packed baked frittata that uses kale and tomatoes (both of which fight cancer!). This delicious recipe is a good source of iron as well as protein, with only 7 grams of carbs.

Try this recipe: Braised Kale Frittata

18 of 36

Almond Ciabatta French toast

This slightly sweet version of French toast will win over breakfast enthusiasts everywhere. A dash of vanilla and almond extracts gives a hint of sweetness to the ciabatta bread, while maintaining its hearty taste. Using egg whites and low-fat milk keeps saturated fat low, while heart-healthy almonds add a boost of protein.

Try this recipe: Almond Ciabatta French Toast
Advertisement

19 of 36

Zucchini Muffins

These light, sweet muffins are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or an after-dinner treat. Developed by Health.com's blogger, Jenna Weber, they look good, taste good, and are good for you.

Make them at the end of summer to use up all of your extra zucchini. You can even make a double batch and save some in the freezer.

Try this recipe: Zucchini Muffins

20 of 36

Quiche With Leeks and Baby Potatoes

Here's how to make this tasty dish: Whisk 6 eggs seasoned with 1/3 cup grated fontina, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste. Saute 1/3 cup chopped leeks and 3 small baby potatoes (already boiled) in 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for 3-4 minutes.

Pour egg mixture over top and cook for 4 minutes until set. Place pan under the broiler to finish for 3 to 4 minutes. Makes 3 servings.

21 of 36

Bergamot Sparkler

This tasty sip is perfect for brunch. Light and refreshing (and let's face it, pretty to look at), the ingredients include sugar, water, Earl Grey tea, whole coriander seeds and prosecco.

Try this recipe: Bergamot Sparkler
Advertisement

22 of 36

Yogurt With Pomegranate Seeds

This recipe couldn't be easier. Just top 6 ounces of plain low-fat yogurt with 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds, 1 tablespoon sliced almonds, 2 teaspoons ground flaxseed meal, and 1 teaspoon honey. Delish!

23 of 36

Zucchini and Rosemary Frittata With Parmesan

Meet the perfect zucchini dish for company—it's easy to make, full of flavor, and vegetarian.

And because it's a no-hassle recipe, you can spend time with your friends instead of in the kitchen.

Try this recipe: Zucchini and Rosemary Frittata with Parmesan

24 of 36

Easy French Toast Casserole

This festive, low-fat breakfast dish tastes just as good without Grand Marnier, but testers say the pecans are a must.

Try this recipe: Easy French Toast Casserole

Advertisement

25 of 36

Crunchy Zucchini Rounds With Sun-dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese

These bite-size snacks are little bursts of flavor for less than 30 calories per round. Zucchini is rich in fiber and provides a crisp base for the savory sun-dried tomatoes and tangy goat cheese. Fresh chives and a dab of extra-virgin olive oil add a rich quality to this light side dish.

Try this recipe: Crunchy Zucchini Rounds With Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese

26 of 36

Asparagus With Poached Eggs and Parmesan

This unique blend of eggs and asparagus is reminiscent of your favorite eggs Benedict recipe: You get the poached eggs and a hollandaise flavor from the sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, without the added calories. Asparagus, a seasonal spring veggie, is full of vitamin K and folic acid, which keeps your cardiovascular system healthy. Plus, with 18 grams of protein, you'll have plenty of energy for the rest of the day.

Watch the video: How to Make Perfect Poached Eggs  

Try this recipe: Asparagus With Poached Eggs and Parmesan

27 of 36

Mozzarella and Nectarine Skewers With Pesto

Juicy nectarines make a sweet complement to the rich mozzarella cheese and savory pesto. The combination of textures and tastes makes a great starter to put out as guests arrive. The calcium and protein in the cheese will fill them up without ruining their appetites for the delicious courses to come. And using fruit on the skewers, instead of bread, saves calories.

Try this recipe: Mozzarella and Nectarine Skewers With Pesto
Advertisement

28 of 36

Orange Twister

We think you'll love the orange twister. Here are the ingredients: water, sugar, orange peels, fennel seeds and prosecco.

Try this recipe: Orange Twister

29 of 36

Sun-Dried Tomato, Goat Cheese, and Fresh Basil Frittata

Savor the Mediterranean flavors of this veggie-filled frittata, packed with protein, antioxidants, and calcium. For a lower-cholesterol version, use egg substitute and fat-free cheese.

Try this recipe: Sun-Dried Tomato, Goat Cheese, and Fresh Basil Frittata

30 of 36

Frittata With Ricotta and Mixed Greens

Protein, healthy fats, and greens make this delicious, low-calorie frittata as healthy as it is delicious. Dark, leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, or mustard greens are about 30 calories a serving and among the healthiest foods you can put on your plate, with loads of vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber. Don't skimp on the fresh herbs called for in this recipe; they deliver a healthy dose of antioxidants along with flavor.

Try this recipe: Frittata with Ricotta and Mixed Greens
Advertisement

31 of 36

Crostini with Spinach, Poached Egg, and Creamy Mustard Sauce

Eggs Benedict get a makeover! Low heat is the key to making perfect poached eggs, and low-fat sour cream and mustard transforms rich Hollandaise sauce into a flavorful, low-fat version. Tip: Use whole grain bread for the crostini to kick up the fiber.

Watch the video: How to Make Perfect Poached Eggs  

Try this recipe: Crostini with Spinach, Poached Egg, and Creamy Mustard Sauce

32 of 36

Overnight Caramel French toast

Once used as a last attempt to save stale bread, French toast has evolved into an international breakfast staple. Whether you stick to the basics or top your toast with fruit and specialty syrups, it proves to be an easy way to please a hungry breakfast crowd. Enjoy our fresh takes on your old favorites.

This irresistible baked French toast is prepared the night before and goes straight from the fridge to the oven. Try using thick slices of whole-grain bread for a fiber boost.

Try this recipe: Overnight Caramel French Toast

33 of 36

Baked Brie with Cran-Apple Chutney

Creamy, warm Brie cheese and cran-apple chutney satisfies both a savory and sweet tooth. With only 57 calories per serving (one slice of bread and topping), it's easy to snack guilt-free.

Throw in some chopped walnuts for added protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Try this recipe: Baked Brie With Cran-Apple Chutney
Advertisement

34 of 36

Artichoke, Goat Cheese, and Potato Omelet

This wholesome omelet is quick to make and will keep you full all morning. Artichokes are rich in vitamin K and are a good source of dietary fiber. This meatless omelet has 20 grams of protein, nearly half of your daily recommendation.

Try this recipe: Artichoke, Goat Cheese, and Potato Omelet

35 of 36

Campanelle With Summer Vegetables

Got one medium zucchini? This recipe will eat it up. Add asparagus, broccoli florets, and green peas and you have a delightful dish that's quick and easy to make.

Try this recipe: Campanelle with Summer Vegetables
Replay gallery

Share the gallery

Up Next

  • By Health.com Health.com
Advertisement