Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata

Introduction

Welcome to our delicious recipe for Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata! If you’re looking for a quick and easy dish that is perfect for any meal of the day, you’ve come to the right place. This frittata is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying option for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why this dish is so special. Frittatas are a popular Italian dish that combines eggs, cheese, and various ingredients, all cooked together to create a fluffy and flavorful masterpiece. What sets this particular frittata apart is the combination of zucchini and cheddar cheese, which adds a delightful twist to the traditional recipe.

Zucchini, also known as courgette, is a versatile vegetable that is widely available during the summer months. It is low in calories, rich in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals. When cooked, zucchini adds a mild and slightly sweet flavor to the frittata, while its tender texture complements the creamy cheddar cheese perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons why this Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata will become a favorite in your household. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious and wholesome meal on the table in no time.

The frittata is also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. It can be enjoyed by vegetarians and can easily be customized to accommodate different flavor profiles. Feel free to add your favorite herbs, spices, or even some diced bell peppers for an extra kick of flavor.

Another reason to love this recipe is its nutritional value. Eggs are a fantastic source of protein and essential vitamins, making this frittata a satisfying and nourishing option. The addition of zucchini provides an extra dose of goodness, adding fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium to your plate.

Ingredients

For this Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

– 6 large eggs

– 1 medium zucchini, sliced

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1/4 cup milk (you can use any type of milk or even substitute with water)

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Optional: fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this delicious Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly softened.
  3. Pour the whisked egg mixture over the sautéed zucchini in the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  4. Cook the frittata on medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the edges start to set.
  5. Preheat your oven’s broiler.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the frittata is set and golden brown on top.
  7. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, then slice and serve.

Pro tip: To easily remove the frittata from the skillet, run a rubber spatula around the edges to loosen it before transferring to a cutting board.

Expert Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata turns out perfectly:

– Make sure to slice the zucchini into thin, even rounds for even cooking.

– Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the frittata from sticking.

– If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the partially cooked frittata to a greased baking dish before broiling.

– Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite flavor combination. Goat cheese or feta can add a tangy twist, while mozzarella can create a gooey and melty texture.

Variations and Substitutions

While this Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata recipe is delicious as is, feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

– Add some diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and crunch.

– Swap the cheddar cheese for Swiss or Monterey Jack.

– For a Mediterranean twist, add some sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese.

– If you’re lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast instead of cheddar cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the meal by serving it with some tasty accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions:

– Serve the frittata with a side of mixed greens or a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing meal.

– Pair it with some crusty bread or toast for a more substantial brunch or dinner.

– Top the frittata with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for some creaminess.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this frittata ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can make the frittata in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze the frittata in individual portions. Make sure to wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted sweet potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – a delightful recipe for Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its simplicity, versatility, and incredible flavor, this frittata is a true winner for any occasion.

So don’t wait any longer, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative variations you come up with. Happy cooking!

Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata

Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata

Recipe by Author

Delicious and easy Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for any meal of the day.

Course: Breakfast Cuisine: Italian Difficulty: easy
4.5 from 120 votes
🍽️
Servings
4
⏱️
Prep time
10
minutes
🔥
Cooking time
10
minutes
📊
Calories
285
kcal
Cook Mode
Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional: fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly softened.
  3. Pour the whisked egg mixture over the sautéed zucchini in the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  4. Cook the frittata on medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the edges start to set.
  5. Preheat your oven's broiler.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the frittata is set and golden brown on top.
  7. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, then slice and serve.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 285
Fat: 21
Carbohydrates: 4
Protein: 18
Sodium: 520
Fiber: 1.5
Sugar: 2

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