Skip to main content

Green Eggs and Ham (Basil Parmesan Scrambled Eggs with Seared Ham Steak)

This Bubby’s version of Dr. Seuss’s whimsical creation will satisfy kids and adults alike. Serve this children’s classic with Home Fries (page 209) or Stone-Ground Hominy Grits (page 207).

Recipe information

  • Yield

    serves 1

Ingredients

For the Basil Purée

1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
1 small garlic clove
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Eggs

3 extra-large eggs
One 4- to 6-ounce ham slice
1 teaspoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Make the basil purée: In the work bowl of a food processor or blender, purée the basil, parsley, garlic, olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth.

    Step 2

    Make the eggs: Using a whisk or a fork, beat the eggs in a small bowl until frothy.

    Step 3

    Sear the ham in a hot 8-inch nonstick skillet for 1 minute, or until crispy.

    Step 4

    Heat the skillet over medium heat for 1 minute. Add the butter and lower the heat slightly. Pour the eggs into the pan. Cook, constantly pushing the eggs toward the center of the pan with a rubber spatula, until they begin to thicken. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the basil purée and 1 1/2 tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook and stir the eggs until they are nearly set but still soft and creamy. Arrange the eggs and ham on a serving plate. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the eggs and serve immediately.

Bubby's Brunch Cookbook cover.
Bubby’s Brunch Cookbook by Ron Silver and Rosemary Black. Copyright © 2009 by Ron Silver and Rosemary Black. Published by Ballantine Books. All Rights Reserved.
Read More
Like airy lemon chiffon cake and a Cadbury egg–inspired tart.
A warmly spiced Ashkenazi charoset, perfect for your Passover seder—or spooned over yogurt the next morning.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
Like a cucumber-cilantro chutney sandwich and scallop piccata.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.
Think a Hugo spritz, a gin basil smash, and plenty more patio-ready pours.
A why-didn't-I-think-of-that technique takes this classic from great to greater.