I find that children love simple flavours that have a yummy look to them and have a fun element. When I am cooking for my friend’s children I usually fall back on an old stand by - The Omelette. Children like eggs and they can be a perfect addition to any meal. This really easy and tasty recipe can be made in just a few minutes and will go perfect with toast in the morning for breakfast or a salad for lunch and grilled vegetable and corn on the cob for dinner. The one I make is usually a gooey cheesy omelette with ham but any ingredient can be added to mix it up a bit. Use the egg base and method as a guide for yours.

Cheesy Ham Omelette
Makes: 1 three egg omelette

3 large eggs
1 tbsp (15 mL) water (if you want a lighter egg texture)
1 tsp (5 mL) olive oil
¼ cup (60 mL) shredded cheddar
¼ cup (60 mL) sliced ham
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Break eggs into a bowl; add the water (if using) and lightly beat.
2. Heat the oil in a small 8” (20 cm) nonstick pan over medium heat. Pour egg mixture into pan. Lightly stir eggs folding the outside into the middle, until eggs begin to set.
3. When eggs are half set stop stirring and allow too cook 30 seconds longer. Sprinkle over cheese and ham.
4. Allow too cook through for about 1 minute, or until eggs have just set and cheese has begun to melt through.

There are many other Ingredient suggestions that could be used or added. Sliced raw or sautéed mushrooms, raw or roasted and sautéed sliced red/ green and/ or yellow peppers, diced tomato, chopped spinach, roasted garlic, fresh herbs, any other cheese that has melting ability, sliced raw or caramelized onions, roasted or grilled chopped chicken, cooked sausage and chopped hot peppers. Just keep in mind that the omelette cooks in just a few minutes so if you add an ingredient that will not be cooked to your liking in those few minutes you have to cook ahead and add to the omelette when required.

I hope you enjoy this recipe and a beautiful summer.

Yours in food,
Chef James