Spiced Tomato & Egg Skillet (Shakshuka)

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 20-25 minutes | Total Time: 25-30 minutes | Serves: 2-3

Why I Love This Recipe

This dish is my go-to when I want something cozy and healthy without spending an hour in the kitchen. Inspired by Arabic flavors, shakshuka is a one-skillet wonder made with simmered spiced tomatoes and eggs. I usually serve it over cauliflower rice for a light, gluten-free base that soaks up all that delicious sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight reset and makes you feel like you’re eating something really special—with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Tomato Base:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ¼ tsp ground cayenne (optional)

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Eggs & Toppings:

• 4 eggs

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

• Optional: Crumbled feta cheese (omit for dairy-free)

For Serving (optional):

• Cauliflower rice (my go-to!)

• Gluten-free bread or warm pita (if not avoiding gluten)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes, until softened and lightly golden.

2. Add Garlic & Spices:

   • Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Simmer the Tomatoes:

   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.

4. Add the Eggs:

   • Use a spoon to make four small wells in the tomato sauce. Crack an egg into each well. Make four small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each one. Cover the skillet with a lid (or foil) and cook over low heat for 5–8 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks remain slightly runny.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   • Top with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of feta if using. Serve warm over cauliflower rice or scoop it up with gluten-free bread.

Notes

• Dietary Quick Tip: This dish is naturally gluten-free when served with cauliflower rice or gluten-free bread. For a dairy-free version, simply skip the feta topping.

• Taste and Adjust: The beauty of this dish is that it's flexible. After simmering the sauce, taste it! Feel free to add more cumin, paprika, chili flakes, or salt to match your preferences.

• Kid-Friendly: Reduce or omit the heat if little ones are joining you at the table.

• Leftovers: The sauce can be made ahead and reheated. Add eggs just before serving.