The Broccoli and Mozzarella Frittata is a simple yet nutritious dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It combines fresh broccoli, eggs, and gooey mozzarella cheese into a fluffy and delicious meal. Frittatas are versatile and a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet while providing a high-protein meal. This recipe is also perfect for those who are looking for a quick and healthy dish that requires minimal ingredients and effort.
Whether you’re preparing a light meal for yourself or serving guests, this broccoli frittata offers a delightful combination of flavors. It’s ideal for busy mornings or a lazy weekend brunch, and you can enjoy it as a hot meal or even cold leftovers. Let’s dive into how to make this tasty dish.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Broccoli – 1 medium-sized head
- 5 Eggs – large
- Black pepper – to taste
- Salt – to taste
- Mozzarella cheese – 100 g (3.5 oz), grated
Steps to Make Broccoli and Mozzarella Frittata
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Wash the Broccoli: Start by rinsing the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. This will remove any dirt or debris.
- Cut into Florets: Cut the broccoli into small bite-sized florets. You can also peel and chop the stem into small pieces if you prefer to use the whole broccoli.
- Blanch the Broccoli (Optional): For a softer texture, you can blanch the broccoli by placing it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then draining it and rinsing under cold water. This step is optional and can be skipped if you prefer your broccoli to have a firmer bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Crack the Eggs: In a medium bowl, crack the 5 eggs and whisk them until they are fully combined. Whisking well ensures that the frittata will have an even texture.
- Season the Eggs: Add salt and black pepper to the eggs according to your taste. A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper should suffice, but you can adjust this based on your preference.
Step 3: Combine Broccoli and Eggs
- Mix Broccoli into Eggs: Once the broccoli is ready, stir it into the whisked egg mixture. Make sure the broccoli is evenly distributed throughout the mixture to ensure every bite has a bit of broccoli.
- Add Mozzarella: Grate the mozzarella cheese and fold it into the egg and broccoli mixture. The cheese will melt during cooking, creating a deliciously gooey texture throughout the frittata.
Step 4: Cook the Frittata
- Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil or butter to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Pour the Mixture: Pour the egg, broccoli, and mozzarella mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly across the surface. Let it cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes, allowing the eggs to set on the bottom.
- Cover and Cook: Lower the heat slightly and cover the skillet with a lid. This helps the eggs cook evenly on top without burning the bottom. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the eggs are fully set and the cheese is melted.
- Check for Doneness: The frittata should be firm to the touch, with no runny egg on top. You can test it by gently pressing the center with a spatula.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove from Heat: Once the frittata is fully cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a minute.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the frittata into wedges and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if you like. This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a serving of Broccoli and Mozzarella Frittata:
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Protein: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
This frittata is packed with protein from the eggs and cheese, fiber from the broccoli, and essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Mozzarella is a great choice for its mild flavor and meltability, but you can experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar, feta, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
2. How do I make the frittata fluffier?
To make your frittata fluffier, you can add a splash of milk or cream to the eggs while whisking. Another trick is to whisk the eggs vigorously to incorporate air, which helps lighten the texture.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Frittatas are highly versatile, and you can add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions. Just make sure to cook or sauté the vegetables before adding them to the egg mixture to avoid excess moisture.
4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this frittata is perfect for meal prep. It can be stored in the fridge and reheated for a quick meal during the week.
Tips for Making the Best Frittata
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality eggs will elevate the flavor and texture of your frittata.
- Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the frittata, as it can become dry. Keep an eye on it while it’s cooking, and remove it from heat as soon as the eggs are set.
- Try Baking: If you prefer, you can also bake the frittata. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F), pour the mixture into a greased oven-safe dish, and bake for 20-25 minutes until set.
- Add Spices for Flavor: You can add additional spices like paprika, cumin, or oregano to give your frittata an extra layer of flavor.
Storage Tips
- In the Fridge: Store leftover frittata in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up in a skillet over low heat or microwave for a minute or two.
- In the Freezer: You can also freeze the frittata. Let it cool completely, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake the frozen frittata in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 15-20 minutes.
Conclusion
This Broccoli and Mozzarella Frittata is a delightful and nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare with minimal ingredients. It’s a great way to enjoy eggs and veggies in one flavorful bite, and its versatility makes it suitable for any meal of the day. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for the family or looking for a simple dinner idea, this frittata will not disappoint.
Its rich flavor and satisfying texture will keep you coming back for more, and the best part is that it’s adaptable. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, cheese, or seasonings, making this recipe your own. Enjoy your homemade frittata, and don’t forget to pair it with a refreshing salad or some toasted bread!