Cancer-Fighting Medi Brunch Plate

Cancer-Fighting Medi Brunch Plate

By Stephanie Lang, MS, RDN, CDN, at Savor Health

Total Time 15 min 

Prep 15 min, Cook 0 min 

Yield 2 servings (353 calories each)

A good source of protein in the morning helps get your eating on track for the day. Here, you get double the protein from Greek yoghurt and a 

boiled egg, and fresh vegetables add crunch and lightness.

Savoury yoghurt is very common as part of the Mediterranean diet, an eating pattern that may reduce a risk of certain cancers, such as breast cancer. It's especially common when mixed with olive oil and fresh spices. Choose yoghurt brands that state “contains live and active cultures” on the package to help fortify the immune system and keep your digestive system regular.

In this recipe, we also use the Middle Eastern spice known as za'atar which contains a mix of thyme, sumac and sesame seeds, to add flavour to the yoghurt and vegetables.

Ingredients

½ cup non-fat or low-fat plain Greek yoghurt or labneh

1 teaspoon olive oil

1/16 teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon za'atar

1 large boiled egg

¼ cup cherry tomatoes halved

½ medium bell pepper, sliced

6 medium kalamata olives

1 medium whole wheat pita bread

Preparation

1. Scoop the yoghurt onto a plate or platter, create a small divot with a spoon and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle the salt and za’atar over the yoghurt.

2. Serve with the boiled egg, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, olives and pita bread. 

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

Many people do not eat enough of the daily recommended amount of fruits and vegetables, especially vegetables. Why not start the day off right and enjoy your veggies at breakfast time?

Try using cucumber instead of bell pepper for a more traditional flavour. Use naan bread or Turkish simit bread (round bagel-like bread usually topped with sesame seeds) instead of pita. Naan bread and Turkish simit are not usually made from whole grains, so if you choose these bread, try to make the remaining grains you eat in the day from whole grain sources.

And if you're looking to add a touch of sweetness to your plate, include potassium-rich dates and almonds.

Cooking and Serving Tips

To make boiled eggs: place eggs into a medium pot and fill with cold water to cover the eggs. Heat over high on the stovetop until the water starts to boil. Once boiling, shut the water off, cover the pot and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes. Drain the eggs and place into an ice water bath to cool. Peel and eat!