Orange-Pistachio French Toast Casserole

When I was growing up, my mom had a popular phrase she’d say in Arabic when she liked something, and it loosely translates to “just like pistachios.” She would say this about all kinds of dishes — rice pilaf, oatmeal, or even a cheese pie. It meant that it was something unique, rich, and delicious. Pistachios are expensive to buy and tedious to shell, but they add such a beautiful pop of color and crunch that can make any dish special. So of course, when I started creating my own recipes, I literally found myself adding pistachios to everything from Mediterranean salads to ricotta stuffed ravioli to this orange-pistachio French toast casserole. They make everything more extraordinary, and I can just hear my mom saying “just like pistachios!”

I can’t think of a better make-ahead brunch than this citrusy, just-sweet-enough baked French toast casserole. Studded with dates, pistachios, and an easy orange-scented custard (made right in the blender), it’s the best dish for pleasing a hungry crowd with minimal effort. If you’d like, you can prepare this baked French toast through step three the night before and store it tightly covered in the fridge overnight. Then carry on from step four and bake it in the morning while you enjoy your coffee. This is a great option for entertaining or if you have overnight guests!