Vegetable frittata

Vegetable Frittata - A Versatile and Delicious Recipe

In the culinary world, frittata is a true treasure, a savory dish that weaves simplicity with versatility. This dish, inspired by the traditions of those who have cooked with love and ingenuity, can be adapted according to the season and available ingredients. Vegetable frittata is perfect for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a light dinner, and can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it an ideal choice for picnics or family meals.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Essential ingredients:
- 4 fresh eggs
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 1 red onion
- 200 g mushrooms
- 1 bell pepper (any color)
- 100 g olives (optional)
- 1/2 zucchini
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Herbs de Provence (or other preferred herbs)

Preparing the ingredients:
The first step in making this frittata is to prepare the ingredients. I suggest choosing fresh, seasonal vegetables to achieve a vibrant flavor. Wash the vegetables well, peel them, and cut them into small cubes or thin slices. Here you can be creative: you can add other vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or broccoli.

If you want to enhance the flavors, you can sauté the vegetables in a tablespoon of olive oil for a few minutes until they become slightly soft. This technique adds extra flavor to your frittata, but it is not mandatory. I prefer the direct version, where the vegetables are added raw, keeping their crunchy texture.

Making the frittata:
1. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with a whisk, ensuring they are well incorporated. Add salt, pepper, and herbs de Provence, mixing well.
2. At this point, integrate the sour cream and flour, mixing them slowly to avoid lumps. It is important to achieve a homogeneous mixture that is easy to pour into the pan.
3. Add the prepared vegetables and gently mix with a spoon, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the mixture.

Transferring to the pan:
4. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish with a little oil to prevent the frittata from sticking. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper, which will make cleaning easier.
5. Pour the egg and vegetable mixture into the pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed. If desired, you can grate some cheese on top for a golden and delicious crust.

Baking the frittata:
6. Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes, or until the frittata is nicely browned on top and cooked through inside. You can check if it’s done by poking the frittata with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your frittata is perfect!

Serving and variations:
Once the frittata is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting. You can serve the frittata warm alongside a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce for a pleasant contrast. If served cold, it becomes a savory appetizer, perfect for a party or picnic.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of vegetables?
Of course! Frittata is extremely versatile. You can use your favorite vegetables or even leftovers from the fridge. Spinach, tomatoes, or squash are excellent choices.

2. How can I make the frittata lower in calories?
For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of oil and sour cream or replace the eggs with country eggs, which are lower in calories.

3. How long does frittata last in the fridge?
Frittata keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure it is covered to avoid absorbing other odors.

4. What drinks pair well with frittata?
A vegetable frittata pairs perfectly with fresh orange juice or green tea. Additionally, a glass of light white wine can complement the flavors of the frittata.

Nutritional benefits:
Vegetable frittata is an excellent nutritional choice. It provides a rich source of protein from eggs, essential vitamins, and fiber from vegetables, making it a balanced dish for a healthy diet.

In conclusion, vegetable frittata is not just a simple and quick recipe but also an opportunity to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Whether you prepare it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!