Frittata Simple Guide

Section: Rise and Shine with Delicious Breakfast Recipes

A frittata is a versatile egg dish perfect for brunch or dinner. Made with eggs, milk, vegetables, herbs, and cheese, it offers endless variations. Start by whisking eggs with milk and seasoning, then sauté vegetables in a skillet. Pour the egg mixture over the veggies, add cheese, and bake until set and golden. Popular variations include broccoli and feta, roasted red pepper and spinach, spring veggies with asparagus, mixed mushrooms with tarragon, and caprese with cherry tomatoes and basil. Serve with fresh herbs or sides like kale salad or bread for a complete meal.

A woman wearing glasses smiles for the camera.
Published By Ioana
Updated on Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:38:42 GMT
A frittata with broccoli and cheese. Bookmark
A frittata with broccoli and cheese. | ioanacooks.com

This egg based dish has been my go to brunch savior on busy weekends and cozy weeknights alike with endless variations depending on what I find in the fridge

I first threw this together with leftover produce before guests arrived and it’s been a crowd pleaser ever since

Ingredients

  • Eggs: provide structure and richness look for fresh farm eggs for best flavor
  • Almond milk or other milk: keeps the base creamy without heaviness
  • Garlic: gives foundational flavor finely mince for even distribution
  • Sea salt and black pepper: season the eggs and enhance the vegetables
  • Olive oil: is key for sautéing and helping the frittata release from the skillet
  • Scallions or onions: add sweetness and aroma when sautéed
  • Broccoli: offers texture and color steam briefly before using if thick
  • Roasted peppers: bring smokiness choose fire roasted for bold flavor
  • Spinach: cooks down quickly and adds earthy tones
  • Asparagus: adds a springy snap trim woody ends
  • Peas: bring lightness thaw completely before using
  • Mushrooms: deepen umami flavor clean and dry well before chopping
  • Feta or pecorino: gives salty tang crumble just before using
  • Mozzarella: adds melty pockets of richness use small fresh balls for best results
  • Fresh herbs like basil chives or tarragon: add bright layers always chop right before adding

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Set oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit allowing time for full preheating while prepping other components
Whisk the Base:
In a large bowl combine eggs almond milk garlic salt and black pepper Whisk vigorously until smooth and slightly frothy to incorporate air
Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium Add aromatics like shallots scallions or mushrooms depending on variation Cook until softened then stir in the primary vegetables like broccoli or spinach Season lightly while cooking to bring out natural moisture
Add Spices and Herbs:
Once vegetables are just tender stir in any dried spices or fresh herbs This locks flavor into the base before eggs are added
Combine with Eggs:
Pour egg mixture over the vegetables in the skillet Gently shake the pan so eggs settle evenly without stirring
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle crumbled feta mozzarella or grated pecorino evenly over the surface
Bake:
Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for fifteen to twenty minutes Frittata is ready when center is set and edges are lightly golden
Cool and Slice:
Allow frittata to rest for five minutes before slicing This makes for cleaner cuts and even servings
A frittata with broccoli and cheese. Bookmark
A frittata with broccoli and cheese. | ioanacooks.com

Storage Tips

Let frittata cool completely then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days Reheat slices in a toaster oven or gently on the stove to maintain texture Avoid microwaving for too long as it can make eggs rubbery

Ingredient Substitutions

If avoiding dairy swap cheese for plant based alternatives or omit entirely Coconut milk or oat milk can replace almond milk for a different flavor Use sweet onions in place of scallions for a milder profile

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple salad like arugula with lemon vinaigrette Top slices with yogurt pesto or avocado for added richness Serve cold or at room temperature for picnics and potlucks

A frittata with broccoli and cheese. Bookmark
A frittata with broccoli and cheese. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

Frittata originates from Italy traditionally made to use up leftover vegetables and cheeses Similar to Spanish tortilla or crustless quiche it has become a favorite in brunch culture worldwide It highlights the Mediterranean style of making simple ingredients shine

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What is a frittata?

A frittata is an egg-based dish similar to a crustless quiche, filled with vegetables, herbs, and cheese, baked until set.

→ Can I use different vegetables in a frittata?

Yes, frittatas are very versatile. You can use almost any vegetable you like, adjusting cooking times as needed.

→ What type of skillet is best for making a frittata?

A cast iron skillet is ideal because it heats evenly and can go from stovetop to oven safely.

→ How do I know when the frittata is done?

The frittata is done when the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden around the edges, usually after 15 to 20 minutes baking at 400 degrees.

→ Can I prepare a frittata ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it in advance and reheat slices gently. It also tastes great at room temperature.

Frittata Simple Guide

Delicious and versatile frittata ideas perfect for any meal from brunch to dinner using fresh vegetables and cheese.

Time Needed to Prep
5 minutes
Cooking Duration
25 minutes
Overall Time
30 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Breakfast

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: Mediterranean

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves (1 frittata, sliced)

Dietary Preferences: Made for Vegetarians, No Gluten

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Base Mixture

Ingredient 01 6 large eggs
Ingredient 02 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
Ingredient 03 2 garlic cloves, minced
Ingredient 04 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Ingredient 05 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Ingredient 06 Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

→ Variation: Broccoli & Feta

Ingredient 07 6 scallions, chopped
Ingredient 08 2 cups chopped broccoli
Ingredient 09 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
Ingredient 10 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

→ Variation: Roasted Red Pepper & Spinach

Ingredient 11 1 shallot, chopped
Ingredient 12 2 roasted red bell peppers, chopped
Ingredient 13 2 cups spinach
Ingredient 14 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese

→ Variation: Spring Veggie

Ingredient 15 4 scallions, chopped
Ingredient 16 1/2 cup chopped asparagus
Ingredient 17 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
Ingredient 18 1/2 cup halved mini mozzarella balls
Ingredient 19 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Ingredient 20 1/4 cup chopped tarragon or chives

→ Variation: Mixed Mushroom & Tarragon

Ingredient 21 1 shallot, chopped
Ingredient 22 12 ounces mixed mushrooms, chopped
Ingredient 23 1/4 cup chopped tarragon
Ingredient 24 1/3 cup grated pecorino cheese

→ Variation: Caprese

Ingredient 25 1 shallot, chopped
Ingredient 26 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
Ingredient 27 3/4 cup halved mini mozzarella balls
Ingredient 28 1/2 cup sliced fresh basil leaves

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Step 02

Whisk together eggs, almond milk, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.

Step 03

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add scallions, broccoli, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–8 minutes until broccoli is tender. Stir in smoked paprika, pour in egg mixture, shake pan gently, sprinkle with feta, and bake for 15–20 minutes until eggs are set.

Step 04

Heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add shallot, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until translucent. Add red peppers and spinach; cook until spinach wilts. Pour in egg mixture, shake pan, top with feta, and bake for 15–20 minutes.

Step 05

Heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Sauté scallions, asparagus, salt, and pepper for 5 minutes until tender. Add peas and egg mixture, shake pan, add mozzarella and feta, and bake 15–20 minutes until set.

Step 06

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Sauté shallot with salt and pepper for 3 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook 8 minutes until soft. Stir in tarragon, pour in egg mixture, shake pan, top with pecorino, and bake 15–20 minutes.

Step 07

Heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Sauté shallot with salt and pepper for 5 minutes. Add tomatoes and half the basil, stir, pour in egg mixture, shake pan, top with mozzarella, bake 15–20 minutes. Garnish with remaining basil.

Extra Tips

  1. Spread vegetables evenly in the skillet before adding the egg mixture to ensure uniform distribution and avoid stirring later.
  2. Use approximately 1/4 cup vegetables per egg for optimal texture and balance.
  3. A well-seasoned or enameled cast-iron skillet is ideal for transferring from stovetop to oven and provides even heat distribution.
  4. Always use caution when handling the skillet post-oven; the handle remains hot. Cover with a kitchen towel or silicone grip.

Tools You'll Need

  • 10 or 12-inch cast-iron skillet
  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains dairy from cheese

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: ~
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Carbohydrate Amount: ~
  • Protein Amount: ~