Eggs are an incredibly versatile and nutritious food, containing protein, fat, and other vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, vitamin D and choline, which is important for both brain health and liver function.
And while they are a nutritional powerhouse in their own right, the foods we pair eggs with can further boost their health benefits and make them a complete meal. These seven foods not only taste delicious alongside eggs, but they also provide complex carbohydrates, fibre and other nutrients to increase satiety and energy. As a health and nutrition coach and author of How to Understand and Balance Your Hormones, here are a few foods I recommend you pair with your eggs for added nutritional value…
Not only do eggs and avocados make the perfect pairing for a tasty breakfast or brunch, but they are also a great source of healthy fats and protein, keeping you fuller for longer, supporting energy levels and hormone health, and containing lots of vitamins and minerals. Avocados are also a great source of fibre; one whole avocado contains around 14 grams of fibre - almost half of the recommended daily intake for adults - important for a healthy gut.
Adding tomatoes to your eggs will add nutritional value
Tomato
Tomatoes are another breakfast favourite to pair with eggs, and along with counting as one of your five a day, they are a great source of vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health. Try grilling or cooking yours for even better health benefits; this helps to break down the fruit's cell walls and enhances absorption of antioxidants, fat-soluble vitamins and minerals.
Upgrade egg on toast by using wholemeal or seeded bread
Wholegrain bread
Egg on toast is a classic combination, but swap ultra-processed white bread for wholegrain or seeded alternatives for a nutritional boost. These have a lower glycemic load than white bread, helping to regulate blood sugar levels, while the fibre content can also support gut health and keep you feeling fuller for longer, especially when paired with protein-rich eggs.
Get your greens in by adding a serving of spinach to your eggs. This leafy green vegetable is very low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals, including folate, magnesium and potassium, which support a healthy heart and immune system.
Like with tomatoes, the way you serve your spinach can impact its nutritional properties; raw spinach has higher levels of vitamin C, folate and potassium, while cooked spinach can improve absorption of iron, vitamin A, vitamin E and calcium.
Add flavour and antioxidants to your eggs with herbs and spices
Herbs and spices
Not only can adding a sprinkle of herbs to your eggs add some extra flavour, but also supercharge their nutrition benefits. Herbs like oregano and thyme are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Meanwhile, adding a sprinkle of chilli flakes to your eggs will boost metabolism, provide immune system-boosting vitamin C, and may enhance heart health.
Turkish eggs combine eggs with yoghurt for a protein-packed meal
Greek Yoghurt
Make your scrambled eggs creamier, fluffier and even more nutritious by stirring in some Greek yoghurt. This added ingredient also serves to increase the protein intake of the eggs, helping you to feel fuller for longer and supporting muscle growth and repair. You could also try serving this combo as Turkish eggs, combining poached eggs with garlic-infused yoghurt and a drizzle of spiced chilli butter for a delicious and nutritious breakfast alternative.
Sprinkling seeds on your eggs can add lots of extra nutritional benefits
Seeds
Topping your eggs with a sprinkle of seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, is another way to boost their nutritional intake. Sunflower seeds contain polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats that can help to lower bad cholesterol while maintaining good cholesterol, along with providing a good source of magnesium, vitamin E and zinc, which is essential for a healthy immune system.