Asparagus Frittata Recipe – Affordable Food Ideas
There’s something almost magical about the versatility of eggs. They can be scrambled, poached, or whipped into wonderful frittatas. Today, I'm excited to share my favorite recipe: asparagus frittata. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes, but it’s also packed with flavor. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, it's an experience you shouldn't miss out on.
I still remember the first time I made this dish. It was one of those mornings when you realize you have some leftover asparagus in the fridge. I grabbed the eggs, sprinkled in a few herbs, and with a little bit of magic—and a splash of chaos in the kitchen—it became a staple in my household.
Delve with me into this vibrant green dish that brings life to your dining table!
What is Asparagus Frittata?
An asparagus frittata is a delightful Italian-style egg dish, enriched with fresh asparagus, sunny herbs, and creamy cheese. Unlike the traditional omelet, a frittata is cooked slowly, allowing all those flavors to meld together seamlessly. It's baked in the oven, resulting in a fluffy texture that has just the right amount of bite.
The beauty of the frittata lies in its adaptability. You can incorporate other vegetables, cheeses, or even proteins if desired. However, the star ingredient here is undoubtedly the tender, vibrant asparagus spears.
Why This Recipe Works?
Nutritionally Balanced
Cooking with farm-fresh eggs and seasonal vegetables means you're packing your dish with nutrients. With protein from the eggs and vitamins from the asparagus, you have a well-rounded meal in every bite.
Visual Appeal
This dish is a feast for the eyes. The bright green of the asparagus against the rich, golden eggs makes for a stunning meal that will impress guests. When serving, your frittata can take center stage, looking like a masterpiece on your dining table.
Easy Cooking Process
Making a frittata is surprisingly easy. You don’t need culinary skills worthy of a Michelin star. Just whisk the eggs, blend in your ingredients, and let the oven do the magic. Ideal for those hectic mornings when you still want to whip up something worthy.
Leftover Joy
Frittatas are the champions of leftovers. Got some stray veggies or cheese on their last legs? Toss them in! This dish is great for reducing waste while giving you a delightful meal. Not to mention, frittatas taste even better the next day!
Ingredients You'll Need To Make This Asparagus Frittata
To embark on this journey, gather the following:
- 6 large farm-fresh eggs
- 1/2 cup finely sliced shallots
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons of creamy unsalted butter
- 1 pound of tender asparagus spears, woody ends removed and cut diagonally into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 3/4 cup smooth ricotta cheese (cottage cheese can be used as an alternative)
- 1 tablespoon freshly minced chives
- 1/4 teaspoon dried tarragon
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
How To Make These?
Step 1: Prepare Your Asparagus
Start by rinsing your asparagus under cold water. Snap off the woody ends, ensuring you don't end up chewing on any tough parts. Cut them diagonally into 1-inch pieces. This not only looks appealing but also helps them cook at a similar rate.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In a medium non-stick skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of creamy unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in your finely sliced shallots. Cook them gently until they are soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. The lovely smell will fill your kitchen, giving you a sense of what’s to come.
Step 3: Sauté the Asparagus
Add the asparagus pieces to the skillet. Season them with sea salt and crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become tender without losing their vibrant green color.
Step 4: Whisk the Eggs
In a separate bowl, crack the 6 large eggs. Add the ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese) as well as minced chives and dried tarragon. Beat everything together until well mixed. You may want to keep it slightly chunky—it adds character!
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Once your asparagus has cooked down nicely, pour the egg mixture over the simmering vegetables. Sprinkle in the sun-dried tomatoes and shredded Gruyère cheese on top. Cook over low heat for about 5 minutes. Watch as the edges begin to set.
Step 6: Bake Your Frittata
Next, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until the frittata is puffed up and lightly golden. A gentle jiggle should indicate it’s done.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the frittata cool for a few minutes. Slice it into generous wedges and serve it warm. Don't forget to enjoy those first bites with a side salad or crusty bread!
Tips for Cooking an Asparagus Frittata
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and seasonal asparagus yield the best flavor. Don't skimp on quality.
- Adjust Cooking Time: If you prefer your vegetables crunchier, reduce the sauté time slightly.
- Add Cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add more. A combination of ricotta, Gruyère, or even feta can add depth to the flavor.
- Cool Some Before Eating: It will help the frittata hold together better when slicing. Waiting just a few moments can make a difference!
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try other ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or even different herbs. Your frittata can evolve with the seasons!
How to Store The Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. A well-made frittata can last up to three days. Just reheat slices in the microwave or enjoy them cold as a quick snack. It’s versatile that way.
Recommended Side Dishes for Asparagus Frittata
Light Garden Salad
A simple salad of mixed greens tossed with a lemon vinaigrette is refreshing. The acidity balances the richness of the frittata beautifully.
Roasted Potatoes
Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with fresh herbs could be the hearty companion you didn’t know you needed! Perfect for brunch.
Grilled Tomatoes
Toss a few halved tomatoes on the grill until they char just slightly. Their sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with the asparagus frittata.
Sautéed Spinach
Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic adds extra greens and complements the frittata’s textures. Plus, it’s incredibly healthy!
Substitute Options for Ingredients
Shallots
You can use onions if shallots are unavailable. They provide a similar sweet onion flavor; just chop them finely.
Ricotta Cheese
If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese works just as well. You’ll lose a bit of that creaminess, but it’s still delightful!
Gruyère Cheese
Swiss cheese or even cheddar can be used instead of Gruyère. Both will add some cheesiness!
Fresh Herbs
If chives or tarragon are not on hand, dried Italian herbs or parsley can add a different yet delightful flavor.
Conclusion
Asparagus frittata is a delightful dish that showcases the freshness of asparagus while providing a satisfying meal. From its ease of preparation to the health benefits it offers, it's no wonder why this dish remains a favorite.
Whether you’re enjoying it for brunch with friends or as a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table. So, gather those ingredients, unlock the potential of your kitchen, and let’s make something scrumptious together!
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Before diving deep into the world of asparagus frittata, let’s talk about what you can pair with this dish. Picture this: a slice of warm frittata on your plate, alongside a light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
That brightness from the salad perfectly complements the earthiness of the frittata. You may also consider serving it with some crusty rustic bread; that crunch balances out the softness of the frittata.
You might even want to serve it with a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of zesty lemon juice for a refreshing twist. Finally, a glass of chilled white wine or bubbly sparkling water can elevate your meal experience.
- 6 large farm-fresh eggs
- 1/2 cup finely sliced shallots
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons of creamy unsalted butter
- 1 pound of tender asparagus spears, woody ends removed and cut diagonally into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 3/4 cup smooth ricotta cheese (cottage cheese can be used as an alternative)
- 1 tablespoon freshly minced chives
- 1/4 teaspoon dried tarragon
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- Start by rinsing your asparagus under cold water. Snap off the woody ends, ensuring you don't end up chewing on any tough parts. Cut them diagonally into 1-inch pieces. This not only looks appealing but also helps them cook at a similar rate.
- In a medium non-stick skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of creamy unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in your finely sliced shallots. Cook them gently until they are soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. The lovely smell will fill your kitchen, giving you a sense of what’s to come.
- Add the asparagus pieces to the skillet. Season them with sea salt and crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become tender without losing their vibrant green color.
- In a separate bowl, crack the 6 large eggs. Add the ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese) as well as minced chives and dried tarragon. Beat everything together until well mixed. You may want to keep it slightly chunky—it adds character!
- Once your asparagus has cooked down nicely, pour the egg mixture over the simmering vegetables. Sprinkle in the sun-dried tomatoes and shredded Gruyère cheese on top. Cook over low heat for about 5 minutes. Watch as the edges begin to set.
- Next, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until the frittata is puffed up and lightly golden. A gentle jiggle should indicate it’s done.
- Let the frittata cool for a few minutes. Slice it into generous wedges and serve it warm. Don't forget to enjoy those first bites with a side salad or crusty bread!
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 368kcal
- Calories from Fat 195kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22.1g34%
- Saturated Fat 13.6g68%
- Cholesterol 69mg23%
- Sodium 561mg24%
- Total Carbohydrate 24g8%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 21g42%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and seasonal asparagus yield the best flavor. Don't skimp on quality.
- Adjust Cooking Time: If you prefer your vegetables crunchier, reduce the sauté time slightly.
- Add Cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add more. A combination of ricotta, Gruyère, or even feta can add depth to the flavor.
- Cool Some Before Eating: It will help the frittata hold together better when slicing. Waiting just a few moments can make a difference!
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try other ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or even different herbs. Your frittata can evolve with the seasons!
Hi Everyone! I’m April Cherry, a registered dietitian and the creator of Affordable Food Ideas. Growing up near Waltham, MA, I learned that flavorful, wholesome meals don’t need to be expensive, and that lesson has shaped my approach to cooking and nutrition. Through my blog, I share budget-friendly recipes and tips to help others eat well without breaking the bank, while still enjoying delicious, nutritious meals.