Spanish Omelet

Vegetarian Spanish Omelet Recipe - Authentic Taste of Spain

Region / culture: Spain | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Spanish Omelet, also known as Tortilla Española, is a classic dish that originated in Spain. It is a simple yet delicious dish made with eggs, potatoes, and onions. This versatile dish can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

History

The Spanish Omelet has been a staple in Spanish cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Spanish region of Navarra, where it was traditionally made with just eggs and potatoes. Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged, with the addition of onions, peppers, zucchini, and other vegetables.

Ingredients

5 small potatoes, peeled and sliced
1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable cooking spray
0.5 medium onion, minced
1 small zucchini, sliced
1.5 cup green/red peppers, sliced thin
5 medium mushrooms, sliced
3 whole eggs, beaten
5 egg whites, beaten
pepper and garlic salt with herbs, to taste
3 oz (85 g) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Cook the potatoes in boiling water until tender.
In a nonstick pan, add oil or vegetable spray and warm it over medium heat.
Add the onion and sauté until browned. Then, add the vegetables and sauté until they are tender but not browned.
In a medium mixing bowl, slightly beat the eggs and egg whites. Add pepper, garlic salt, and mozzarella cheese. Stir the egg-cheese mixture into the cooked vegetables.
Oil or spray a 10-inch pie pan or ovenproof skillet. Transfer the potatoes and egg mixture to the pan. Spread it with Parmesan cheese and bake the omelet until it is firm and browned on top, which should take about 20–30 minutes.

Variations

Add chorizo or ham for a meatier version of the omelet.
Use sweet potatoes or butternut squash instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor.
Add spinach, kale, or other leafy greens for added nutrition.
Top the omelet with salsa, avocado, or sour cream for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the potatoes until they are tender but not mushy.

- Sauté the vegetables until they are tender but not browned to maintain their flavor and texture.

- Use a nonstick pan or skillet to prevent the omelet from sticking.

- Be sure to beat the eggs and egg whites well to ensure a fluffy and light texture.

- Allow the omelet to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

The Spanish Omelet can be served hot or cold, making it a versatile dish. It can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or paired with a side salad or crusty bread for a more substantial meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the potatoes until they are tender but not mushy.

- Sauté the vegetables until they are tender but not browned to maintain their flavor and texture.

- Use a nonstick pan or skillet to prevent the omelet from sticking.

- Be sure to beat the eggs and egg whites well to ensure a fluffy and light texture.

- Allow the omelet to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use sweet potatoes or butternut squash instead of regular potatoes.

- Use any combination of vegetables you prefer, such as bell peppers, spinach, or kale.

- Use any type of cheese you like, such as cheddar, feta, or goat cheese.

- Use olive oil or butter instead of cooking spray for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The Spanish Omelet 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 omelet with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives. - Serve the omelet on a platter with a side of mixed greens or a dollop of sour cream. - Cut the omelet into wedges and serve on individual plates for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

The Spanish Omelet pairs well with a variety of dishes and beverages, including:

- A side salad with vinaigrette dressing

- Crusty bread or toast

- Fresh fruit or berries

- White wine or sparkling water

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Spanish Omelet 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

Each serving of Spanish Omelet contains around 250 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

The Spanish Omelet is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the potatoes and vegetables. One serving contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The Spanish Omelet is a moderate source of fats, with each serving containing around 10 grams of fat. The fats come from the eggs, cheese, and cooking oil.

Proteins

The Spanish Omelet is a good source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 15 grams of protein. The protein comes from the eggs and cheese.

Vitamins and minerals

The Spanish Omelet is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and iron. The vegetables in the omelet provide a variety of essential nutrients.

Alergens

The Spanish Omelet contains eggs and cheese, which are common allergens. Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish.

Summary

Overall, the Spanish Omelet is a nutritious and balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Summary

The Spanish Omelet is a classic dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a mix of potatoes, vegetables, eggs, and cheese, it is a nutritious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether served hot or cold, this versatile dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. She had just returned from a trip to Spain, and she was eager to share with me a traditional recipe she had learned while she was there.

As she gathered the ingredients and began to explain the process, I could see the passion and love she had for this dish. The Spanish Omelet, or Tortilla Española as it is known in Spain, is a simple yet delicious combination of eggs, potatoes, onions, and sometimes other ingredients such as peppers or ham.

Maria carefully peeled and sliced the potatoes, making sure they were all uniform in size. She then thinly sliced an onion and sautéed it in olive oil until it was soft and translucent. The potatoes were added to the pan and cooked until they were tender and slightly browned.

In a separate bowl, Maria cracked several eggs and whisked them until they were light and fluffy. She seasoned them with salt and pepper, and then poured the mixture over the potatoes and onions in the pan. As the eggs cooked, Maria gently lifted the edges of the omelet with a spatula, allowing the uncooked eggs to flow underneath.

Once the omelet was set on the bottom, Maria placed a plate over the pan and carefully flipped it over. She then slid the omelet back into the pan to cook the other side, repeating the process until it was cooked through and golden brown.

The aroma that filled the kitchen was incredible, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish. Maria served the omelet warm, cut into wedges, and garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The flavor was rich and savory, with the perfect balance of potatoes, onions, and eggs.

I was immediately hooked on this recipe, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Maria graciously shared her recipe with me, and over the years, I have made it countless times for my family and friends.

I have since added my own twist to the recipe, incorporating different ingredients such as bell peppers, chorizo, or even cheese. Each variation has been a hit, and I love experimenting with new flavor combinations.

One of my favorite memories involving this recipe was when my grandchildren came to visit. They were curious to see what I was cooking, and when they saw the omelet taking shape in the pan, they couldn't wait to try it.

As they sat at the kitchen table, eagerly awaiting their first bite, I couldn't help but smile. Seeing their faces light up as they took that first taste brought me so much joy. It reminded me of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

I have shared this recipe with so many people over the years, passing it down from generation to generation. It has become a beloved staple in our family, a dish that is always requested for gatherings and celebrations.

The Spanish Omelet holds a special place in my heart, not just for its delicious taste, but for the memories and traditions that it represents. It is a reminder of the bond between friends, the joy of cooking, and the love that goes into every meal.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I encourage you to give the Spanish Omelet a chance. Let its simple ingredients and bold flavors transport you to the sunny streets of Spain, where food is not just nourishment, but a celebration of life itself.