Ham and Spinach Frittata

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While frittatas are a classic dish enjoyed in many parts of the world, they are particularly easy to store and reheat, making them a perfect choice for meal prep or quick family dinners. The Ham and Spinach Frittata combines simple ingredients to deliver a fulfilling meal that is full of flavor. With the nutrients from spinach and the protein from ham and eggs, it’s not only delicious but also a great way to start your day or nourish yourself during the day.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to love the Ham and Spinach Frittata. First and foremost, it’s a flexible recipe that can be adjusted based on your personal taste. If you want to add other vegetables or use a different type of cheese, feel free! It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients from your fridge.

Additionally, the frittata is easy to prepare and can be made in one pan, which minimizes cleanup. You can enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. You can also prepare it ahead of time and slice it into portions, making it ideal for those busy weekdays when you need a quick meal.

Lastly, the combination of ham and spinach makes for a delicious and nutritious dish. Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals while ham adds satisfying protein. Together, they elevate the taste of this easy-to-make dish, ensuring that you will want to make it over and over again.

How to Make Ham and Spinach Frittata

Making a Ham and Spinach Frittata is simple and rewarding. This dish provides a hearty meal that can be enjoyed any time of day. Here’s how to whip up this delicious recipe.

Ingredients

To make Ham and Spinach Frittata, you will need:

6 large eggs
1 cup cooked ham, diced
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
1/4 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the frittata cooks evenly.
Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. Make sure there are no egg whites left unbroken.
Heat the Skillet: Heat the olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can use a regular one and transfer the frittata to a baking dish later.
Cook the Ham and Spinach: Add the diced ham to the skillet, followed by the chopped spinach. Cook for a few minutes until the spinach wilts and the ham gets a bit crispy. This will deepen the flavor.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the egg mixture over the ham and spinach, stirring slightly to ensure everything is well distributed. The egg should start to set around the edges quite quickly.
Stovetop Cooking: Let the frittata cook on the stovetop for about 2-3 minutes until the edges begin to set. This step helps the base cook thoroughly before transferring it to the oven.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly on top of the frittata. This will melt into the dish, adding an extra delicious layer of flavor.
Bake the Frittata: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven, baking for about 15-20 minutes. You should see the frittata puff up and get a nice golden color. It’s done when it’s set and feels firm to the touch.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the frittata to cool slightly. This will make it easier to slice. Use a sharp knife to cut it into wedges for serving.

How to Serve Ham and Spinach Frittata

Ham and Spinach Frittata can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. It makes a great main dish for breakfast or lunch. If you are serving it for a brunch, pair it with a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal.

You might also want to enhance your serving experience with some additional toppings. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like chives or parsley), or even a drizzle of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Leftovers make for a fantastic grab-and-go breakfast. You can wrap slices in parchment paper for an easy and healthy snack or meal during the busy week ahead.

How to Store Ham and Spinach Frittata

Storing leftover frittata is easy and practical. Once the frittata has cooled to room temperature, you can either keep it in the skillet covered with plastic wrap or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate it promptly.

Stored properly, Ham and Spinach Frittata can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, you can reheat the frittata in the microwave or in a oven until warmed through.

For those looking to enjoy it later, you can freeze the frittata. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a labeled freezer bag. When frozen, the frittata can last up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm as mentioned above.

Tips to Make Ham and Spinach Frittata

Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of the spinach and other ingredients can greatly affect the taste. Use fresh, high-quality eggs and cheese for a better overall flavor.
Customize Your Recipe: Feel free to add other ingredients to your frittata like bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms. You can also switch out the ham for cooked bacon or sausage for a different spin on the recipe.
Don’t Overcook: It’s best to keep an eye on your frittata while it bakes. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture. The frittata will continue to cook slightly even after you remove it from the oven, so take it out when it looks just about set.
Avoid Soggy Frittata: Make sure all excess liquid from the spinach and other ingredients is removed before mixing them into the eggs. This precaution helps prevent a soggy dish.

Variation

While the Ham and Spinach Frittata is a delightful dish on its own, there are many ways to alter the recipe for different tastes. Try these variations:

Vegetarian Frittata: Replace the diced ham with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious vegetable-based frittata. You can also add more spinach or introduce new ingredients like broccoli or bell peppers.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses according to what you have on hand. Feta or goat cheese can add a tangy flavor that works exceptionally well with the spinach.
Spicy Touch: For those who enjoy some heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
Herbed Frittata: Include various herbs like basil, parsley, or dill to give your frittata a fresh twist. You can add these directly to the egg mixture before cooking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in this frittata recipe?

Yes! You can certainly swap out the ham for other cooked meats like diced bacon, sausage, or even chicken. Just ensure that whatever you use is properly cooked before adding it to the frittata.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Ham and Spinach Frittata can be made ahead of time. It’s actually a great dish for meal prep! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator once it has cooled.

How do I know when the frittata is done?

The frittata is done when it is firm to the touch and has a slight golden color on top. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If it’s still runny, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.

Can I freeze the frittata?

Yes, you can freeze it! After it has cooled, wrap the slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with the frittata?

The frittata pairs well with a light salad, sliced avocado, or bread. You can also serve it with fresh fruit for a complete meal. Enjoy with coffee or tea for breakfast or brunch.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ham and Spinach Frittata is not only simple to make but also versatile and delicious. With the combination of eggs, ham, and fresh spinach, it’s a versatile dish that fits well into various meal times. Plus, the easy preparation and the ability to customize means you can cater to different tastes or dietary needs.

So whether you need a hearty breakfast, a filling lunch, or a light dinner option, the Ham and Spinach Frittata has you covered. Happy cooking!