Brunch - Nests with Ham, Eggs and Swiss Cheese

Preparation 10 minutes
Makes 12 servings
Cooking 30 minutes

Ingredients: 12 slices of milk bread 1/3 cup (75 mL) butter, melted 2/3 cup (150 mL) minced ham 6 oz (170 g) shredded Canadian Swiss 1/4 cup (50 mL) finely chopped green onions 12 medium eggs Salt and pepper 2 oz (60 g) shredded Canadian Swiss

1. Remove crusts from sliced bread. Flatten slices with a rolling pin. Brush both sides with melted butter and press a slice into each of 6 oz (170 mL) ovenproof ramekins or custard cups.

2. Set them on a cookie sheet and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 12 minutes. Divide ham, 6 oz (170 g) cheese and green onion evenly among the ramekins.

3. Make a well in centre of each "nest" and delicately break an egg into it. Salt and pepper, and top with 2 oz (60 g) cheese, divided evenly among nests.

4. Bake for 18 minutes or until eggs are done to taste.

For a change of taste, use Canadian Cheddar, Oka or Monterey Jack.

Swiss cheese refers cheese group related Emmental and Gruyère. Round holes of varying sizes form in the cheese naturally during aging. With its delicate and slightly sweet almond and hazelnut flavour, it's delicious as a snack, at breakfast the end of a meal, and perfect in sauces, fondues and au gratin dishes.

NUTRITION INFORMATION PER SERVING: Energy: 585 Cal/2447 kJ Protein: 28 g Fat: 33 g Carbohydrate: 44 g Sodium: 419 mg Fibre 0.8 g Calcium: 418 mg Suggested Wine: Pinot Blanc makes a light and refreshing wine that is both dry and fruity. The bouquet suggests green apples and the colour has a slight greenish hue.