Rice and Vegetable Frittata

Rice and Vegetable Frittata Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Rice and Vegetable Frittata is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This recipe combines fluffy eggs, cooked rice, melted cheese, and a variety of fresh vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

History

Frittatas have been a popular dish in Italian cuisine for centuries. Traditionally made with eggs, cheese, and a variety of vegetables or meats, frittatas are a versatile and easy-to-make dish that can be customized to suit any taste preference.

Ingredients

8 eggs, lightly beaten
0.5 cup milk
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground black pepper
3 cups cooked rice
2 cups (8 oz (227 g)) shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups chopped tomatoes
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
0.5 cup chopped green pepper
0.5 cup sliced green onion
1 tbsp vegetable oil

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Beat well.
Add rice, cheese, and tomatoes. Mix well and set aside.
In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, green pepper, and green onions in oil for about 2 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and cook over medium heat until the bottom is set.
Turn over and cook the other side, or place under the broiler for several minutes until the top is lightly browned and the eggs are set.
Cut into wedges and serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier frittata.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique flavor profile.
Experiment with different vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini, for a variety of textures and flavors.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender-crisp before adding the egg mixture to ensure they are cooked through in the final dish.

- For a lighter frittata, you can use egg whites instead of whole eggs or a combination of both.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or meats for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Serving Suggestions

Rice and Vegetable Frittata can be served hot or cold and pairs well with a side salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the frittata over medium heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

- Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast iron pan to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of cooked rice for this recipe, such as white rice, brown rice, or wild rice.

- Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese, such as Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the frittata with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Rice and Vegetable Frittata pairs well with a crisp green salad, fresh fruit, or a side of roasted vegetables.

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 before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice and Vegetable Frittata contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rice and Vegetable Frittata contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rice and Vegetable Frittata contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Rice and Vegetable Frittata contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice and Vegetable Frittata is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

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

Summary

Rice and Vegetable Frittata is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Rice and Vegetable Frittata is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. With a mix of fluffy eggs, cooked rice, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables, this frittata is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Rice and Vegetable Frittata. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Italy. My grandmother, Nonna Maria, was renowned for her culinary skills and I was always by her side in the kitchen, eager to learn and help.

One day, as we were preparing lunch together, Nonna Maria told me she had a special recipe to share with me. She explained that a frittata was a traditional Italian dish made with eggs and various ingredients, similar to a Spanish omelette. However, this version was unique because it included rice and vegetables, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Nonna Maria began by cooking the rice until it was tender and fluffy. Meanwhile, she sautéed a medley of colorful vegetables – bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes – in olive oil until they were soft and fragrant. The kitchen was filled with the mouth-watering scents of garlic and herbs, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Once the rice and vegetables were ready, Nonna Maria beat a dozen eggs in a large bowl and seasoned them with salt, pepper, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. She then combined the eggs with the rice and vegetables, gently folding everything together to create a thick and creamy mixture.

Nonna Maria poured the mixture into a hot skillet and cooked it over a low flame until the frittata was golden brown and set. She carefully flipped it over onto a plate, revealing a beautiful, golden-brown crust on the bottom. The frittata was then cut into wedges and served hot, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

I took my first bite of the Rice and Vegetable Frittata and was instantly transported to a world of flavors and textures. The creamy eggs, tender rice, and vibrant vegetables melted together in a symphony of tastes that danced on my tongue. The frittata was light yet filling, perfect for a leisurely lunch or a cozy dinner.

Nonna Maria beamed with pride as I praised her culinary masterpiece. She explained that she had learned the recipe from a dear friend who lived in a neighboring village. The friend had shared the recipe with Nonna Maria during a summer gathering, and it had quickly become a family favorite.

As the years passed, I continued to make Nonna Maria's Rice and Vegetable Frittata for my own family and friends. I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different vegetables and herbs to create new and exciting variations. Each time I made the frittata, I felt a connection to my grandmother and the generations of women who had passed down their culinary wisdom through the ages.

Today, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing a Rice and Vegetables Frittata for a family gathering, I can't help but smile as I remember that sense of anticipation I felt so many years ago. The recipe has become a cherished tradition in our family, a symbol of love, heritage, and the joy of sharing good food with the ones we hold dear. And as I take a bite of the frittata, savoring the familiar flavors and aromas, I know that Nonna Maria's spirit lives on in every delicious bite.