What's in the Fridge Frittata

What's in the Fridge Frittata
What's in the Fridge Frittata
Originally published as "What's in the Fridge" Frittata in Healthy Cooking August/September 2012, p20. Great for a last-minute breakfast, brunch or lunch, guests rave about the crab and Swiss combination in this frittata. I also like to use sausage and cheddar with asparagus or whatever's in season—and in the fridge.
  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Served Person: 4
vegetarian white meat free tree nut free nut free gluten free red meat free shellfish free contains dairy contains eggs pescatarian
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/3 cup onion chopped
  • 1/3 cup sweet red pepper chopped
  • 1/3 cup fresh mushrooms chopped
  • 6 oz lump crabmeat drained
  • 1/4 cup swiss cheese shredded
  • Carbohydrate 69.280208390368 g
  • Cholesterol 498.130199717742 mg
  • Fat 60.3960790845416 g
  • Fiber 0.319083321491877 g
  • Protein 63.9646417011709 g
  • Saturated Fat 34.2575802156486 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (806g)
  • Sodium 1173.9882286095 mg
  • Sugar 68.9611250688762 g
  • Trans Fat 4.01858410616961 g
  • Calories 1069 calories

What's in the Fridge Frittata: A Busy Woman's Best Friend

As a business consultant, my days are a whirlwind of meetings, deadlines, and travel. Finding time to cook a proper meal often feels like a luxury I can't afford. That's why I rely on quick, versatile recipes that can be adapted to whatever ingredients I have on hand. The "What's in the Fridge Frittata" is a perfect example of this philosophy. It's a lifesaver when I'm short on time but still want a delicious and nutritious meal. The beauty of this frittata is its adaptability. The recipe suggests crab and Swiss cheese, a combination that's both elegant and satisfying. But honestly, I often deviate from the original recipe, using whatever vegetables are lurking in my crisper drawer or leftover meats from previous dinners. Last week, it was a combination of wilted spinach, leftover grilled chicken, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. The result? Another delicious, impromptu lunch that fueled my busy afternoon. I’ve even been known to use this frittata recipe as a base for an impromptu dinner party. Adding a simple side salad and some crusty bread elevates this simple dish to something special.

The key to a successful frittata lies in its simplicity. There's no complicated technique or lengthy preparation involved. It's a matter of whisking some eggs, sautéing a few vegetables, and then letting the oven do the rest of the work. This makes it ideal for weeknight dinners or lazy weekend brunches. Plus, the frittata can be easily customized to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Vegetarians can skip the meat and load it up with vegetables. Those following a low-carb diet can reduce the amount of vegetables and increase the cheese. It's a blank canvas, waiting for your culinary creativity. The combination of eggs, cheese, and vegetables provides a complete protein source and a good dose of essential nutrients. It’s also incredibly satisfying and filling, keeping me energized throughout the day.

Beyond the practical benefits, making a frittata also brings a sense of calm to my hectic life. The simple act of chopping vegetables and whisking eggs is almost meditative. It’s a small moment of mindfulness in an otherwise chaotic schedule. It reminds me that even amidst the whirlwind of daily life, there’s still time to nourish myself, both physically and mentally. This recipe isn’t just about a quick meal; it's about finding balance and making time for what truly matters: good food, and a moment of peace in a busy day. And the best part? The cleanup is a breeze! One pan to wash is a true win for a busy professional like me.

Variations on the Theme:

  • Mediterranean Frittata: Sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and spinach.
  • Spicy Sausage Frittata: Italian sausage, bell peppers, onions, and mozzarella cheese.
  • Veggie Lover's Frittata: A rainbow of colorful vegetables like zucchini, squash, asparagus, and mushrooms.
  • Leftover Frittata: Use any leftover cooked meats, vegetables, or cheeses to create a unique and delicious frittata.

So next time you're staring into your refrigerator, wondering what to make for dinner, remember the "What's in the Fridge Frittata." It's a flexible, flavorful, and surprisingly satisfying meal that’s perfect for any busy individual, regardless of their lifestyle or dietary needs.

Step-by-step

    • In a small bowl, whisk eggs; set aside.
    • In an 8-in. ovenproof skillet, sauté the onion, pepper and mushrooms in oil until tender.
    • Reduce heat; sprinkle with crab.
    • Top with eggs.
    • Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes or until nearly set.
    • Uncover skillet; sprinkle with cheese.
    • Broil 3-4 in. from the heat for 2-3 minutes or until eggs are completely set.
    • Let stand for 5 minutes.
    • Cut into wedges.