High-Protein Vegetable Frittata
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
I love starting my day with a flavorful and nutritious meal, and this High-Protein Vegetable Frittata always hits the spot. Packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich eggs, it's an ideal choice for breakfast or brunch. I often make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and it keeps well in the refrigerator. The combination of textures and colors makes each slice as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Plus, it's incredibly versatile, allowing you to use any leftover veggies you have on hand.
Creating the perfect frittata has been a journey for me, and I finally found the right balance between eggs and vegetables. By whisking the eggs with a splash of milk, I ensure a fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crisp veggies. I love using seasonal produce as it enhances the flavor and nutritional value, making each frittata unique.
One tip I discovered along the way is to cook the vegetables before adding the eggs. This prevents them from releasing too much moisture and ensures the frittata sets nicely. The result is a hearty dish that's packed with flavor and perfect to share with family or friends!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Packed with protein from eggs and vegetables
- Versatile recipe that adapts to your favorite ingredients
- Deliciously fluffy texture that satisfies any craving
The Role of Eggs in a Frittata
Eggs are the star of this High-Protein Vegetable Frittata, providing not only structure but also a rich, creamy texture that binds all the ingredients together. The protein content in eggs helps create a satisfying meal that keeps you full for hours. When whisking the eggs, be sure to incorporate air into the mixture to make the baked frittata light and fluffy. Whisk for about 1-2 minutes until the eggs are pale and slightly frothy.
To enhance the flavor profile of your frittata, consider using farm-fresh eggs. They tend to have a deeper yellow yolk and a richer taste compared to conventional eggs. This can make a noticeable difference, especially in a dish where the eggs are the main component. If you're vegan or allergic, you can experiment with egg substitutes like chickpea flour mixed with water, but keep in mind the texture will differ.
Perfecting the Vegetables
The choice of vegetables can make or break your frittata. Spinach and bell peppers provide vibrant color and essential nutrients, while cherry tomatoes add a welcome burst of sweetness. Make sure to chop your veggies evenly; this ensures they cook uniformly and blend well with the eggs. When sautéing, look for the onions and peppers to become soft and translucent, with the spinach wilting down before you add the egg mixture.
Feel free to get creative with your vegetable selections! Zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms would also be fantastic additions. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly; firmer vegetables like zucchini may require a few additional minutes in the skillet. Always keep an eye on moisture levels too—overly watery vegetables can lead to a soggy frittata. If using high-moisture veggies like tomatoes, consider roasting them first to deepen their flavors and reduce water content.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for a sumptuous High-Protein Vegetable Frittata:
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delicious High-Protein Vegetable Frittata:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot enough for the frittata.
Cook the Vegetables
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well blended. Add salt and pepper to taste, then fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
Combine and Cook
Pour the egg mixture over the cooked vegetables in the skillet. Gently stir to distribute evenly. Cook on the stovetop for about 5 minutes until the edges begin to set.
Bake the Frittata
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the center is firm and the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Your delicious frittata is ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and cheeses to customize your frittata. It's a great way to use up any leftovers in your fridge!
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best features of this frittata is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare the mixture and cook it up to three days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator before baking. When you're ready to enjoy it, just pop the skillet in the oven and bake as directed. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious!
If you have leftovers, the frittata stores well in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply slice and warm individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. To preserve the texture, you can cover it with foil while reheating in the oven, avoiding any sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
This frittata is versatile when it comes to serving. It can be enjoyed warm for breakfast or brunch, but it's also delightful served cold. I often serve it with a side salad topped with a light vinaigrette, which contrasts beautifully with the richness of the frittata. Additionally, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the flavors and add a refreshing finish.
It also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or toasted English muffins for a hearty meal. For a bit of heat, serve it with a side of hot sauce or sriracha, which complements the creamy feta and vegetables. Feel free to garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil for a pop of color and flavor that takes it to the next level.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the frittata ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat slices in the microwave before serving.
→ What vegetables work best for a frittata?
Any vegetables you like! Common choices include zucchini, mushrooms, and asparagus. Just make sure to sauté them first.
→ Can I freeze the frittata?
Absolutely! Slice the frittata and wrap individual portions tightly before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
→ Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the milk with almond milk and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
High-Protein Vegetable Frittata
I love starting my day with a flavorful and nutritious meal, and this High-Protein Vegetable Frittata always hits the spot. Packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich eggs, it's an ideal choice for breakfast or brunch. I often make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and it keeps well in the refrigerator. The combination of textures and colors makes each slice as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Plus, it's incredibly versatile, allowing you to use any leftover veggies you have on hand.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot enough for the frittata.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well blended. Add salt and pepper to taste, then fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
Pour the egg mixture over the cooked vegetables in the skillet. Gently stir to distribute evenly. Cook on the stovetop for about 5 minutes until the edges begin to set.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the center is firm and the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and cheeses to customize your frittata. It's a great way to use up any leftovers in your fridge!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 380mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 18g