Starbucks Egg, Pesto & Mozzarella Sandwich Recipe

Are you a fan of grabbing a quick and tasty breakfast on your way to work or during a brisk morning walk? If so, you’ve probably experienced the charm of Starbucks’ menu offerings. One standout choice for many is the Starbucks Egg, Pesto & Mozzarella Sandwich. This delightful sandwich packs a punch of flavors, making it a favorite among patrons who crave something hearty yet refreshing in the morning.

How to make Starbucks Egg, Pesto & Mozzarella Sandwich

The Starbucks Egg, Pesto & Mozzarella Sandwich is a delightful breakfast option that features a fluffy, cage-free egg frittata, incorporating kale and mozzarella, all served on a toasted Cheddar and onion bun.

Ingredients:

Egg Frittata:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach or kale
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Basil Pesto:

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional:

• 4 slices mozzarella cheese
• 2 cheddar and onion buns or any artisan buns
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

Prepare the Egg Frittata:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
2. Stir in the chopped spinach (or kale) and shredded mozzarella—season with salt and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are set and slightly golden. Once done, set aside to cool slightly before cutting into sizes that fit your buns.

Make the Basil Pesto:

1. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
2. While the processor is running, slowly add the olive oil and blend until the mixture becomes a smooth paste—season with salt and pepper. Adjust the consistency with more oil if needed.

Assemble the Sandwich:

1. Slice the buns in half and lightly butter each side. Toast them on a skillet or under the broiler until golden brown.
2. Spread a generous layer of basil pesto on the bottom halves of each bun.
3. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the pesto.
4. Cut the baked egg frittata to fit the buns and place a piece on top of the mozzarella.
5. Cap with the top halves of the buns.

Tips for the Perfect Sandwich:

• Freshness Matters: Use fresh basil and high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor.
• Customize Your Frittata: For extra flavor, feel free to add other ingredients like diced bell peppers or onions.
• Serving Suggestion: While best served warm, this sandwich can also be enjoyed at room temperature if you’re on the go.

What to serve with

When it comes to elevating your breakfast or brunch experience with the homemade Starbucks Egg, Pesto & Mozzarella Sandwich, pairing it with complementary sides can transform a simple meal into a feast.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance the richness of the egg and pesto sandwich. Opt for seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi or go tropical with mango and pineapple chunks. The natural sweetness and acidity of the fruits will complement the savory flavors of the sandwich.

2. Greek Yogurt with Honey and Granola: For a creamier side, serve your sandwich with a bowl of thick Greek yogurt topped with a drizzle of honey and crunchy granola. This combination offers a contrast in textures and flavors, adding a sweet note and a probiotic boost to your morning.

3. Vegetable Hash: A skillet hash made from diced potatoes, onions, bell peppers, and zucchini can be a hearty and colorful side. Seasoned with herbs like thyme and rosemary and cooked until slightly crispy, it adds a comforting element to the meal.

4. Soup: For a cozy brunch, especially during cooler weather, pairing your sandwich with a cup of soup can be very satisfying. Consider light options like tomato basil or a vegetable minestrone that won’t overpower the flavors of the sandwich.

5. Avocado Slices or Guacamole: Adding avocado provides a creamy texture and healthy fats that complement the egg and pesto’s richness. Serve slices of avocado on the side or a small bowl of guacamole for dipping or spreading.

6. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette offers a crisp and refreshing side that cuts through the sandwich’s richness. You can also add nuts and seeds for an extra crunch.

7. Smoothies or Fresh Juices: For a drink that doubles as a side, consider blending up a nutritious smoothie or squeezing some fresh juices. Options like an orange carrot ginger juice or a spinach and berry smoothie can complement the meal with their vibrant flavors and additional health benefits.

8. Coffee or Tea: Don’t forget the beverages! A freshly brewed cup of coffee or a selection of teas can perfectly round off the breakfast experience, echoing the Starbucks vibes. Whether it’s a robust dark roast, a creamy latte, or a soothing green tea, the right drink can set the tone for the day ahead.

Ingredients Substitutes

When recreating the Starbucks Egg, Pesto & Mozzarella Sandwich at home, you might need to substitute various ingredients due to dietary restrictions, allergies, or simply availability.

1. Ciabatta Bread

Substitute: Any artisan bread such as focaccia, sourdough, or a hearty whole grain loaf can be an excellent alternative. For a low-carb option, consider using a lettuce wrap or a low-carb keto bread.

2. Basil Pesto

• Dairy-Free/Vegan Substitute: Look for vegan pesto in stores or make your own by replacing Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.
• Nut-Free Substitute: If you’re allergic to nuts, make a homemade pesto and substitute sunflower or pumpkin seeds for pine nuts.
• Store-Bought vs. Homemade: Homemade pesto is fresher and can be customized, but if in a pinch, a quality store-bought pesto will work.

3. Mozzarella Cheese

• Dairy-Free/Vegan Substitute: Use a dairy-free mozzarella cheese alternative found in most grocery stores. Some brands offer excellent melting properties suitable for sandwiches.
• Substitute Cheese: If you’re just looking for a different flavor profile but still want cheese, consider provolone for its mild flavor or a smoked gouda for a more pronounced taste.

4. Eggs

• Egg Substitute for Allergies: Scrambled tofu is a great vegan alternative that can mimic the texture of eggs when turmeric and nutritional yeast are added for color and flavor.
• Cholesterol-Free Substitute: For an omelet-like layer, use an egg substitute product or a chickpea flour batter (mixed with water, turmeric for color, salt, and a pinch of black salt for an eggy sulfur flavor).

5. Spinach

Substitute: Arugula can be an excellent alternative, giving a peppery flavor or kale for a heartier, chewier texture. Both offer a similar nutritional profile and work well with the other ingredients.

6. Salt and Pepper

Seasoning Adjustments: While salt and pepper are basic seasonings, consider a dash of paprika or garlic powder for a subtle change in flavor profile without straying too far from the original taste.

7. Butter (for Toasting the Bread)

• Dairy-Free/Vegan Substitute: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter or a light brushing of olive oil on the bread before toasting.
• For a Healthier Option, Opt for spray oil or simply toast the bread without butter for a lower-calorie option.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a homemade Starbucks Egg, Pesto & Mozzarella Sandwich that is sure to impress.

More Starbucks Recipes:

• Copycat Starbucks Jalapeno Chicken Pocket Recipe