• Eggs: The foundation of any frittata, eggs provide the structure, richness, and protein. For this recipe, we’ll need 8 large eggs. Opt for fresh, high-quality eggs whenever possible. Free-range or pasture-raised eggs often have richer yolks and a more pronounced flavor, which will elevate the overall taste of your frittata. If you are catering to a larger crowd or prefer a thicker frittata, you can easily increase the number of eggs, just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Olive Oil: Liquid gold of the Mediterranean, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil are essential for sautéing the vegetables and adding a fruity, peppery note to the frittata. Extra virgin olive oil is not just about flavor; it’s also packed with healthy fats and antioxidants. When selecting olive oil, choose one that is cold-pressed and has a vibrant green hue, indicating freshness and quality. Avoid refined or light olive oils, as they lack the flavor and health benefits of extra virgin olive oil.
• Onion: Aromatic and foundational, 1 medium yellow onion, diced, forms the flavor base of our frittata. Yellow onions offer a balanced sweetness and pungency that mellows beautifully when sautéed. Dice the onion into small, even pieces to ensure it cooks evenly and releases its flavor throughout the frittata. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a sweet onion like Vidalia or Walla Walla.
• Bell Peppers: Adding sweetness, color, and crunch, we’ll use 1 red bell pepper and 1 yellow bell pepper, diced. Bell peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants. The combination of red and yellow peppers offers a vibrant color contrast and a slightly different sweetness profile. Feel free to use any color bell pepper you have on hand – green bell peppers will add a slightly more bitter note, while orange peppers will contribute a similar sweetness to yellow peppers.
• Zucchini: Mild and subtly sweet, 1 medium zucchini, diced, adds a delicate texture and moisture to the frittata. Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that absorbs flavors well and becomes tender when cooked. Choose firm zucchini with smooth skin and avoid those that are overly large or feel spongy. If you have larger zucchini, you can remove some of the seeds before dicing to prevent the frittata from becoming too watery.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Bursting with juicy sweetness and acidity, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved, provides little pockets of flavor throughout the frittata. Cherry tomatoes are sweeter and more flavorful than larger tomatoes, and their halved form ensures they cook quickly and release their juices evenly. You can also use grape tomatoes if cherry tomatoes are not available.
• Spinach: Nutrient-rich and slightly earthy, 5 ounces of fresh spinach, roughly chopped, adds a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. Spinach wilts down beautifully during cooking, becoming tender and adding a subtle green hue to the frittata. Fresh spinach is preferred for its texture and flavor, but you can use frozen spinach if necessary. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the frittata.
• Kalamata Olives: Briny, salty, and intensely flavorful, ½ cup of Kalamata olives, pitted and halved, are essential for that authentic Mediterranean taste. Kalamata olives are known for their rich, fruity flavor and meaty texture. They add a salty, briny counterpoint to the sweetness of the vegetables and the richness of the eggs. Make sure to use pitted olives to save time and avoid any unpleasant surprises while eating.
• Feta Cheese: Tangy, salty, and crumbly, 4 ounces of feta cheese, crumbled, adds a signature Mediterranean flavor and creamy texture. Feta cheese, traditionally made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk, provides a distinct salty and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Choose a good quality feta cheese that is packed in brine for the best flavor and texture. Drain the feta well before crumbling it and adding it to the frittata.
• Fresh Herbs: Aromatic and vibrant, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh oregano and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil bring a burst of freshness and herbaceousness. Fresh herbs are crucial for elevating the flavor profile of Mediterranean cuisine. Oregano offers a slightly peppery and earthy note, while basil provides a sweet and slightly anise-like aroma. If fresh herbs are not available, you can use dried herbs, but remember to use about half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, these essential seasonings enhance all the flavors and balance the dish. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred over pre-ground pepper for its brighter and more aromatic flavor. Season generously, but remember that feta cheese and olives are already salty, so taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
