Spinach, Tomato, and Feta Frittata
A frittata is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of spinach, tomatoes, and feta in this recipe provides a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The fresh spinach adds a vibrant green color and a mild, earthy taste, while the tomatoes bring a juicy sweetness. The feta cheese, with its tangy and salty profile, ties everything together. This frittata is not only delicious but also nutritious, packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk (whole, 2%, or your choice)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 medium tomatoes, diced)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Fresh herbs (such as basil, parsley, or dill) for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the frittata cooks evenly and develops a nice golden-brown color on top.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. A cast-iron skillet works great for frittatas.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they start to soften. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
3. Whisk the Eggs:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. The milk helps to make the frittata light and fluffy.
- Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, leaving a small handful aside for topping.
- If you like, you can also add the grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and flavor.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
- Pour the egg mixture over the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Gently stir to ensure that the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the eggs.
- Sprinkle the reserved feta cheese on top.
5. Cook the Frittata:
- Allow the frittata to cook on the stovetop over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, just until the edges start to set. This step ensures that the bottom of the frittata is well-cooked and won’t stick to the pan.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the frittata is fully set in the center. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or knife into the center; it should come out clean.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Once the frittata is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. The frittata will firm up slightly as it cools.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill for added flavor and color.
- Slice the frittata into wedges and serve warm. It pairs well with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or roasted potatoes.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Variations: While feta is a great choice for this frittata, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese, cheddar, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just be sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture.
- Meat Options: If you’d like to add some protein, consider incorporating cooked bacon, sausage, or ham. These can be mixed into the egg mixture along with the vegetables.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the flavor by adding different herbs and spices. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding oregano and thyme. For a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the eggs.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk, and replace the cheese with a dairy-free option or omit it altogether.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Leftover frittata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great option for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
- Reheating: To reheat, place a slice of frittata on a microwave-safe plate and heat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
This Spinach, Tomato, and Feta Frittata is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a light lunch, or a satisfying dinner, this frittata is sure to please. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, or save the leftovers for a delicious and convenient meal later in the week.
