This nutritious breakfast shines with asparagus and tomatoes, both glutathione superstars, and delivers a healthy boost of protein from the eggs and salmon.  Asparagus is still in season, so check your local grocery stores and farmers markets for the fresh variety.  To find the perfect bunch, look for firm stalks with tightly closed heads that have well-hydrated (not dry) bases.

Eggs Benedict with Smoked Salmon, Seared Tomatoes, Asparagus, and Meyer Lemon-Olive Oil Hollandaise

*yields 6 servings

Poached eggs

• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

• 12 large eggs

1. Bring 2 quarts of water to boil in large, shallow pan.

2. Add the white wine vinegar to the water.  Lower the heat to a simmer.

3. Break 6 of the eggs into 6 small bowls.

4. Gently slide each egg into the simmering water. Drain on a paper towel.

5. Poach until the whites are firm, about 2 minutes.

6. With a slotted spoon remove the eggs from the water.  Drain on a paper towel.

7. Repeat with the remaining 6 eggs.

8. Keep warm in oven.

Meyer-Lemon Hollandaise Sauce

• 4 egg yolks

• 2 tablespoons water

• Juice and zest of 1 Meyer lemon

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1. In a stainless steel bowl combine egg yolks, water, and lemon zest and juice.

2. In a double boiler set over simmering water.  Whisk yolk mixture until light and fluffy.  Remove top of double boiler from heat.

3. Slowly add and whisk olive oil into the yolk mixture.  Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Seared Tomatoes

• 4 medium tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1. Cut each tomato into 3 slices.

2. Brush cut sides with olive oil.

3. Season to taste with paprika, salt and pepper.

4. Place large nonstick skillet over high heat.

5. Sear tomato slices, about 1 minute per side.

Presentation

• 12 slices smoked salmon

• 24 asparagus spears

• 3 tablespoons finely minced chives

1. Trim and peel asparagus.  Steam spears 4 to 5 minutes.

2. For each serving place 2 tomatoes on warmed plate.  Top each tomato with a slice of smoked salmon.  Top each salmon slice with 1 poached egg.  Spoon hollandaise over each egg.  Garnish with 4 asparagus spears and a sprinkling of minced chives.

What is your favorite healthy way to start the day?