I love mornings. Each one is a new beginning. A fresh start. Another chance to live. And since breakfast is the first meal of the day, it too, has a special place in my heart. I savor days when I have enough time and the right ingredients to make a breakfast dish that is thoroughly satisfying. I’d been craving Huevos Rancheros for a few days.  This meal, although big and messy, brought on a state of utter bliss. I’m calling it Bre-vana, breakfast + nirvana.

I’m not a big fan of oatmeal. It’s a texture thing. However, from time to time, I will give it another chance. I reintroduce myself because I know it’s a source of good carbohydrates and fiber. I’ve learned that when I accessorize them well, with a mixture of toppings, I enjoy them more. Nuts, dried fruit, brown sugar or whatever I can find. This time around, I was inspired by the Ricotta Pancakes at Highland Bakery. They were creamy and moist, containing silky ricotta in the batter. Then instead of using maple syrup, they gave me a side of blueberry compote. It was tangy and sweet. The fruit cut the…

On the weekend, I like to cook breakfast for my family. To clarify we do eat breakfast on weekdays but usually it’s something quick and portable. Boiled eggs, pop tarts, a muffin or a bagel can all be carried out the door and eaten en route to school and work. When Saturday rolls around, since we take the time to sit and eat together I like to make something nice.  This French toast has become a hit with the girls. It started when my friend Stephanie told me she uses raisin bread to make hers. And with that information she changed my world.