Last Tuesday, my friend James stumbled into my bistro looking utterly defeated. “Three failed frittatas this week,” he confessed, dropping into a chair. “My brunch guests arrive tomorrow.” I smiled, sliding my spinach and feta frittata recipe across the counter. The Mediterranean-inspired dish had rescued countless culinary disasters. Two days later, James returned with an empty dish and a grin. “They asked for your number,” he laughed. Sometimes the simplest egg dishes make the biggest impressions.
History & Origin
The Spinach and Feta Frittata traces its culinary roots through a rich Mediterranean cooking tradition, blending Greek and Spanish influences into a versatile egg-based dish. Originating from classic Mediterranean recipes, this frittata combines fresh spinach with tangy feta cheese, showcasing the region’s ingredient-driven cooking style.
Food experts like Kelli Foster have refined the technique, transforming traditional methods into modern kitchen-friendly approaches. The dish highlights how Mediterranean cuisines use simple, high-quality ingredients like eggs, fresh or frozen spinach, and authentic feta to create flavorful meals.
Prepared in a skillet and finished in the oven, this frittata represents a perfect example of Mediterranean culinary innovation.
Recipe
The Spinach and Feta Frittata is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that transforms simple ingredients into a nutritious and flavorful meal. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this frittata combines the earthy richness of spinach with the tangy punch of feta cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Versatile and easy to prepare, this recipe offers a quick and satisfying way to enjoy a protein-packed meal. The combination of eggs, fresh spinach, and feta cheese makes it both nutritious and delicious, appealing to those seeking a wholesome and elegant dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 5 cups organic baby spinach
- 1/2 cup Horizon Organic Grassfed Whole Milk
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Chopped scallions
- Minced garlic
- Salt
- Pepper
Equipment
- 12-inch nonstick skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Sauté scallions, garlic, and spinach in skillet over medium heat until wilted
- Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in large bowl
- Pour egg mixture over vegetables and feta in skillet
- Stir gently for 30-45 seconds until large curds form
- Smooth top of frittata into even layer
- Bake for 8-9 minutes until center is set and edges are golden brown
- Cool on cutting board for 5 minutes before serving
Nutrition
350 kcal | 5g Carbohydrates | 25g Protein | 26g Fat | 10g Saturated Fat | 4g Polyunsaturated Fat | 8g Monounsaturated Fat | 450mg Cholesterol | 500mg Sodium | 350mg Potassium | 2000 Vitamin A IU | 12mg Vitamin C | 250mg Calcium | 3mg Iron
Cooking Tips
When preparing this frittata, ensure your skillet is oven-safe and use a gentle touch when stirring the eggs to maintain large, soft curds. For added flavor, consider experimenting with different herbs like dill or parsley, and always use fresh, high-quality ingredients to maximize the dish’s taste and nutritional value.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Spinach and Feta Frittata with thoughtfully chosen accompaniments that complement its Mediterranean flavors. A crisp green salad or a vibrant tomato salad with cherry tomatoes, red onion, lemon juice, and parsley provides a fresh contrast to the rich, creamy frittata.
For a more substantial meal, pair the dish with Middle Eastern skillet potatoes or create an epic Mediterranean brunch board featuring hummus, pita, and olives.
A Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and additional feta can transform the frittata into a complete, thematically cohesive dining experience that celebrates the bright, bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine.
Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting
One common pitfall when preparing a frittata is overcooking the eggs, which can result in a dry, rubbery texture. I once made this mistake during a weekend brunch, becoming too distracted by conversation and leaving the frittata in the oven too long.
To avoid this, watch the frittata closely in the final minutes of baking, removing it when the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Using an oven-safe skillet is crucial, as is allowing the frittata to rest for a few minutes after cooking, which helps it set and makes cutting and serving easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Feta Work in a Frittata?
I’ve found feta cheese adds a tangy, creamy kick to frittatas. It melts beautifully, creating a rich texture that elevates the eggs and complements other ingredients like spinach, making your breakfast both delicious and satisfying.
Do You Cook Spinach Before Putting in a Frittata?
Yes, I recommend cooking spinach before adding it to a frittata. It’ll help remove excess moisture, prevent sogginess, and ensure even integration with the eggs. Sauté it for about 3 minutes until wilted for the best results.
What Makes a Frittata so Different From an Omelet?
A frittata differs from an omelet in its cooking method, ingredient distribution, and texture. I bake it in the oven, mix ingredients throughout the eggs, and create a firmer, sliceable dish that’s perfect for meal prep.
Do Spinach and Feta Go Together?
I absolutely love how spinach and feta complement each other! Their tangy and earthy flavors create a perfect balance, making them a classic Mediterranean duo that’s delicious in everything from frittatas to pastries.
Final Thoughts
This frittata transcends ordinary meals, offering a nutritious Mediterranean-inspired experience packed with flavor. The beauty lies in its simplicity—transforming everyday ingredients into an elegant dish suitable for any occasion. Master these techniques once, and you’ll find yourself returning to this protein-rich recipe whenever you need a reliable, impressive meal solution.
Craving a different spin on this versatile egg dish? Click through to discover our delicious Denver Frittata that puts a creative twist on the classic frittata format.
