A frittata is a type of egg-based Italian dish similar to an omelette or quiche, enriched with additional ingredients such as meats, cheeses or vegetables. Frittatas are cooked slowly over low heat, allowing time for the eggs to set without becoming dry or rubbery.
Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Method
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- In a 10-inch oven-proof skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in flour and baking powder, and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in egg mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set and the bottom is golden brown, about 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle with cheese and transfer skillet to the oven. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 5 minutes.
- Cut into wedges and serve.
Potential changes & improvements
There are many possible variations on the frittata theme. Other vegetables that could be used in place of or in addition to the onion include bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. Different cheeses could be used, such as Swiss, Gruyere, or feta. And meat or seafood could be added, such as cooked bacon, ham, sausage, or shrimp.
What other food it works well with
Frittatas are often served at brunch, along with other breakfast staples such as bacon, toast, and juice. They can also be served for lunch or dinner, and make a good light meal when served with a salad.
Common Mistakes
One common mistake when making a frittata is to overcook it. The eggs should be set, but still moist and soft in the center. Another mistake is to add too many ingredients, which can make the frittata heavy and difficult to cook evenly. When in doubt, less is more.
Nutritional Information
Frittatas are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. One frittata can provide up to 20% of the recommended daily intake of protein for an adult. They are also a good source of choline, which is important for brain health. Frittatas are relatively high in fat and cholesterol, so they should be eaten in moderation.
Allergens
Frittatas may contain allergens such as eggs, milk, wheat, and soy. They may also contain traces of nuts, peanuts, and seafood.