Vanilla Pain Perdu

Directions

1. 1
   In a medium bowl, rub the grated lime zest into the sugar.
2. 2
   Stir in the lime juice and strawberries and let stand for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. 3
   In a shallow dish large enough to hold the brioche in a single layer, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla and salt, then whisk in the milk.
4. 4
   Add the brioche to the dish and turn to coat, then let the brioche soak for 10 minutes.
5. 5
   Place the almonds in a shallow bowl.
6. 6
   Melt the butter in a large nonstick skillet.
7. 7
   Dip 1 side of each slice of brioche into the almonds and add to the skillet, nut side down.
8. 8
   Cook over moderate heat until the almonds are golden brown, about 3 minutes.
9. 9
   Flip the brioche slices and cook until browned on the second side, about 3 minutes longer.
10. 10
    Transfer the pain perdu to 4 plates, spoon the strawberries on top and serve.
11. 11
    Pass the whipped cream at the table.