Grilled Onion Frittata

Grilled Onion Frittata Recipe - Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Grilled Onion Frittata is a delicious and savory dish that combines the flavors of caramelized onions, creamy eggs, and tangy parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. The combination of grilled onions and eggs creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Frittatas have been a popular dish in Italian cuisine for centuries. The word "frittata" comes from the Italian verb "friggere," which means "to fry." Traditionally, frittatas are made by frying beaten eggs with various ingredients such as vegetables, meats, and cheeses. The addition of grilled onions to this frittata recipe adds a delicious smoky flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

Ingredients

1 red onion, peeled and cut into 8 wedges
1 yellow onion, peeled and cut into 8 wedges
0.5 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
olive oil, as needed
10 large eggs
0.25 cup heavy cream
0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a large bowl, combine the red and yellow onions, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Toss well to coat.
Preheat a grill pan over high heat.
Arrange the onion wedges on the pan and cook until browned and tender underneath, about 5 minutes.
Turn the onions and cook for an additional 7 minutes, or until they are very tender.
Transfer the onions to a plate and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and cream until blended.
Stir in the cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the rosemary and cook for 1 minute.
Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and fold gently to combine the rosemary and eggs.
Arrange the grilled onions on top of the egg mixture.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage for a meatier frittata.
Mix in cooked spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added vegetables.
Use different types of cheese such as cheddar, feta, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onions on high heat to achieve a nice caramelization and char on the outside.

- Whisk the eggs and cream together until well blended to ensure a light and fluffy frittata.

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

- Feel free to add other ingredients such as cooked bacon, spinach, or mushrooms to customize the frittata to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Grilled Onion Frittata hot or at room temperature with a side salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal. It can also be served with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the onions adds a smoky flavor to the frittata.

- Baking the frittata in the oven ensures even cooking and a fluffy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use shallots or leeks instead of onions for a different flavor.

- Substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

The frittata can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the frittata with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve on a platter with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Grilled Onion Frittata with a crisp green salad, fresh fruit, or a side of roasted potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

220

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 5g

- Dietary Fiber: 1g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 12g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 8% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains eggs and dairy (cream, parmesan cheese, butter)

Summary

This Grilled Onion Frittata is a nutritious and satisfying dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great source of essential nutrients and is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories.

Summary

Grilled Onion Frittata is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. With its savory flavors and nutritious ingredients, this frittata is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the smoky taste of grilled onions combined with creamy eggs and tangy parmesan cheese in this satisfying and flavorful dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Grilled Onion Frittata. It was a warm summer evening, and I had just returned from a day of picking fresh vegetables from our garden. As I entered the kitchen, a delicious aroma wafted through the air, drawing me towards the stove where my mother was cooking.

She was standing over a sizzling pan, sautéing onions until they were golden brown and caramelized. The smell was intoxicating, and I couldn't help but ask what she was making. With a twinkle in her eye, she told me about this dish called Grilled Onion Frittata that she had learned from her own mother, my grandmother.

She went on to explain that this recipe was a family favorite, passed down through generations. The key to making it just right was to slowly cook the onions until they were sweet and tender, then mix them with beaten eggs and grill them until the edges were crispy and golden brown.

I watched in awe as my mother expertly flipped the frittata onto a plate, revealing a beautiful mosaic of caramelized onions and fluffy eggs. She cut a slice for me to try, and with the first bite, I was hooked. The flavors were rich and savory, with the perfect balance of sweetness from the onions.

From that moment on, I knew I had to learn how to make this dish myself. I begged my mother to teach me her secrets, and she obliged with a smile. We spent countless hours in the kitchen together, perfecting the technique of grilling the frittata just right.

Over the years, I honed my skills and made this recipe my own, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste. I added a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor, or a dollop of creamy goat cheese for a touch of luxury. Each time I made the Grilled Onion Frittata, it brought back memories of that first taste on that warm summer evening.

As I grew older and had children of my own, I passed this recipe down to them, just as my mother had done for me. It became a tradition in our family, a dish we would make together on lazy Sunday mornings or special occasions.

I remember one particular time when my daughter, Emily, came to me with a grin on her face. She had put her own spin on the recipe, adding sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for a burst of color and flavor. I was so proud of her creativity and adventurous spirit, knowing that this recipe would continue to evolve and adapt with each new generation.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of onions and eggs sizzling on the stove, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of this recipe. It has brought my family together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

And as I take a bite of the perfectly grilled frittata, I am filled with a sense of contentment and joy, knowing that this dish will always hold a special place in my heart. The Grilled Onion Frittata is more than just a recipe – it is a symbol of love, tradition, and the bond that ties us all together.