Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this egg and spinach frittata might just be the answer. Packed with flavors from crispy bacon, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs, it’s a dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Plus, it’s versatile enough to change up based on your favorite ingredients. Follow along to discover how to make this delightful dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
5 large eggs
½ cup milk
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, diced
1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups baby spinach
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. In an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
4. Add olive oil, diced garlic, and baby spinach to the skillet. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach and tomato mixture in the skillet. Stir in the cooked bacon.
7. Let the mixture cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes, until the edges begin to set.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the eggs are set and slightly golden.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped basil, slice, and serve.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it is hot enough for baking the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the 5 large eggs, ½ cup of milk, ½ teaspoon of dried basil, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Set the mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook it until it becomes crispy, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Once the bacon is crispy, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 2 cloves of diced garlic, and 2 cups of baby spinach to the skillet. Sauté the mixture until the spinach is wilted, which should take about 3 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes
After the spinach has wilted, stir in the 15 oz. can of drained diced tomatoes. Make sure to mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Step 6: Combine with Egg Mixture
Pour the prepared egg mixture over the spinach and tomato mixture in the skillet. Gently stir to integrate the cooked bacon into the mixture.
Step 7: Start Cooking on the Stovetop
Let the mixture cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes. You should notice the edges of the egg mixture beginning to set.
Step 8: Bake the Dish
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and slightly golden on top.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped basil. Slice the dish and serve warm.
Notes
Note 1: Egg Consistency
For a fluffier texture, whisk the eggs until they are fully combined and slightly frothy before adding the milk and seasonings.
Note 2: Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and substitute it with mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor.
Note 3: Ingredient Variations
Feel free to customize by adding other vegetables like onions or bell peppers, or using different herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Whisking Eggs
To create a fluffy texture in your dish, vigorously whisk the eggs with the milk until well combined. This incorporates air, making the final product light and airy.
Cooking Bacon
Render the fat from the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This not only adds flavor but also provides a savory base for the other ingredients.
Sautéing Spinach
Quickly cook the spinach in olive oil until just wilted. This method preserves its vibrant color and nutritional value while enhancing its flavor.
Layering Ingredients
When adding the egg mixture, ensure it’s distributed evenly over the other ingredients in the skillet to ensure even cooking.
Baking
Finish the dish in the oven to set the eggs evenly, providing a perfect golden top. Baking helps to achieve a uniform texture throughout the frittata.
FAQ
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs since they are less concentrated in flavor.
What can I use instead of bacon?
You can replace bacon with turkey bacon, sausage, or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version.
How do I know when the eggs are set?
The eggs are set when they no longer jiggle in the center and have a firm, slightly golden surface.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to customize your dish.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This delicious egg dish combines the richness of eggs and milk with the savory flavors of bacon, garlic, and spinach. It’s baked to perfection, making it a hearty meal perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The use of dried herbs and fresh basil adds a delightful aroma and taste, making it a balanced and nutritious option.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Frittata
Substitute bacon with bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a vegetarian frittata that packs in more veggies.
Caprese Omelette
Add fresh mozzarella and sliced tomatoes, and garnish with balsamic reduction for a caprese twist.
Chorizo and Potato Bake
Incorporate diced chorizo and cooked potatoes for a spicy, filling meal that will please meat lovers.
Herbed Egg Muffins
Pour the egg mixture into muffin tins instead of a skillet, adding your choice of vegetables for easy grab-and-go breakfast bites.
Eggs Florentine
Serve the baked eggs on toasted English muffins and top with hollandaise sauce for a rich brunch treat.
Greek-Style Egg Bake
Mix in feta cheese, olives, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
