Ham and Asparagus Frittata

Ham and Asparagus Frittata Recipe - Delicious Italian Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ham and asparagus frittata is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of savory ham, fresh asparagus, and gooey melted cheese for a satisfying meal that is easy to make.

History

Frittatas have been a popular dish in Italian cuisine for centuries. They are similar to omelettes but are typically thicker and cooked in a skillet in the oven. The combination of eggs, vegetables, and cheese in a frittata makes it a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any taste.

Ingredients

8 to 12 asparagus stalks, bottoms trimmed
0.5 yellow onion, chopped
1.5 cup thinly sliced button mushrooms
1 cup chopped cooked ham
4 eggs
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup grated cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil.
Preheat the broiler.
While the water is heating, trim the asparagus spears to fit in a circular pattern in a large skillet, resembling the hands of a clock.
Once the water is boiling, blanch the asparagus stalks by adding them to the water and cooking for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they are just tender and bright green.
Transfer the asparagus to a colander and rinse under cool water.
Set aside to drain.
Lightly coat the skillet with cooking spray and place it over medium-high heat.
When the skillet is hot, add the onion and mushrooms and cook until the onions are just tender, which should take about 4 minutes.
Add the ham to the skillet and cook, stirring often, until it is heated through.
While the ham is cooking, whisk the eggs and 2 tbsp of cold water in a small bowl.
Season with salt and pepper.
Reduce the heat to medium.
Use a wooden spoon to evenly spread the onions, mushrooms, and ham across the skillet.
Pour the eggs over the vegetables and ham.
If necessary, tilt the pan to ensure the eggs spread evenly.
Cook until the edges of the eggs are done and the center begins to bubble, which should take about 4 minutes.
At this stage, the eggs will not be fully cooked but will finish cooking under the broiler.
Arrange the asparagus spears in a circular pattern in the skillet and top off the mixture with cheese.
Place the skillet under the broiler and cook until the cheese is melted and begins to brown.

Variations

Substitute cooked bacon or sausage for the ham.
Add diced bell peppers or tomatoes for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to blanch the asparagus before adding it to the frittata to ensure that it is tender and bright green.

- Whisking the eggs with cold water helps to create a light and fluffy texture.

- Cooking the frittata on the stovetop before finishing it under the broiler ensures that the eggs are cooked evenly.

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

Serving Suggestions

Serve the ham and asparagus frittata with a side salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Blanching the asparagus before adding it to the frittata helps to ensure that it is cooked evenly and retains its bright green color.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have asparagus, you can use broccoli or spinach instead. You can also use any type of cooked meat in place of the ham.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the frittata mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook it. Simply pour the mixture into the skillet and cook as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the frittata with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Ham and asparagus frittata pairs well with a crisp white wine or a glass of orange juice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of ham and asparagus frittata contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of ham and asparagus frittata contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of ham and asparagus frittata contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of ham and asparagus frittata contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham and asparagus frittata is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and cheese, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Ham and asparagus frittata is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Ham and asparagus frittata is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any meal of the day. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. It was a warm spring day, and I had been invited to a friend's brunch party. As I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of sizzling ham and asparagus filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat. My friend, an experienced cook, was busy whisking eggs and chopping vegetables with ease. She smiled and beckoned me over to watch as she effortlessly created a Ham and Asparagus Frittata.

I was mesmerized by the way she moved around the kitchen, effortlessly combining ingredients and creating a masterpiece in the skillet. As I watched her work, I felt a deep sense of admiration and inspiration. I knew that I wanted to learn how to make this dish and add it to my repertoire of recipes.

After that brunch party, I asked my friend for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. I quickly jotted down the ingredients and steps, eager to try my hand at making a Ham and Asparagus Frittata for myself. I gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen, channeling my friend's expertise and grace.

As I cooked, I found myself lost in the process, each step bringing me closer to the finished frittata. The smell of the ham and asparagus mingling together in the pan filled my kitchen, and I knew that I had made the right choice in trying out this recipe.

When I finally took my first bite of the frittata, I was transported back to that sunny brunch party, surrounded by friends and laughter. The flavors of the ham and asparagus danced on my tongue, and I knew that this dish would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made this Ham and Asparagus Frittata countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my tastes and experimenting with different ingredients. I have shared this dish with friends and family, always met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

One of my favorite memories of making this frittata was when my granddaughter, Emma, asked to join me in the kitchen. She had always shown an interest in cooking, and I was thrilled to pass on my knowledge and love for this recipe to her.

As we stood side by side at the stove, I guided Emma through the steps of making the frittata, explaining the importance of each ingredient and technique. I watched with pride as she confidently cracked eggs and chopped asparagus, her face lighting up with excitement as she flipped the frittata in the pan.

When we sat down to eat our creation, I saw the same look of satisfaction and joy on Emma's face that I had felt all those years ago. It was a moment of connection and tradition, a passing of the torch from one generation to the next.

As I look back on the many years I have spent perfecting this recipe, I am grateful for the memories and moments it has brought into my life. From that first brunch party to teaching my granddaughter how to make it, the Ham and Asparagus Frittata has been a constant source of joy and inspiration.

I am proud to have learned this recipe from a dear friend and to have shared it with so many loved ones along the way. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my creativity and love, and this frittata recipe holds a special place in my heart as a reminder of all the wonderful moments it has brought into my life.