Ham and Spinach Frittata

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why make this recipe

Ham and Spinach Frittata is an easy and delicious dish that fits perfectly into various meals throughout the day. Whether you choose to enjoy it at breakfast, brunch, or even for dinner, this frittata is a great way to use up leftover ham and infuse your meal with healthy greens. Plus, it’s packed with protein from the eggs and ham, making it a satisfying choice. The fresh spinach adds not only color but also a boost of vitamins and minerals. Most importantly, it’s quick to prepare, requiring minimal cooking time, and can be made in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

This recipe also allows for creativity, as you can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. If you’re looking for a way to eat healthier without sacrificing taste, this frittata checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for meal prep as well, so you can make it in advance and enjoy slices throughout the week.

how to make Ham and Spinach Frittata

Making Ham and Spinach Frittata is straightforward and requires only a few simple steps. Here’s how you can whip up this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

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 Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your frittata will cook evenly throughout.
Whisk Eggs and Milk: In a large bowl, take the six eggs and crack them open. Add the 1/4 cup of milk, along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is well combined. The goal is to break up the yolks and create a uniform liquid.
Heat Your Skillet: Next, place an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the tablespoon of olive oil or butter, letting it melt completely. This will prevent the frittata from sticking to the skillet.
Cook Ham and Spinach: Once the skillet is hot, add the diced ham and chopped spinach. Stir them around in the skillet for a few minutes, cooking until the spinach wilts and the ham starts to crisp. This step adds flavor to the ham and gives the spinach a lovely, tender texture.
Add Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the whisked egg mixture over the ham and spinach in the skillet. Gently stir with a spatula so that it spreads evenly but doesn’t disturb the cooked ham and spinach too much.
Start Cooking on the Stovetop: Allow the frittata to cook on the stovetop for about 2-3 minutes, or until the edges of the frittata begin to set. You’ll notice that the outer edges are firming up while the center remains soft.
Top with Cheese: While the edges are setting, sprinkle the grated cheese on top of the frittata. This adds a delicious layer of flavor that will melt into the dish as it cooks.
Bake in Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the frittata is puffed up and golden brown on top. You will know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. To serve, cut the frittata into wedges and enjoy warm.

how to serve Ham and Spinach Frittata

Ham and Spinach Frittata is versatile and can be served in several ways. Here are some suggestions:

For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve warm slices alongside toast and fresh fruit. It pairs nicely with orange juice or coffee, offering a balanced start to the day.
Lunch Option: Serve the frittata at room temperature with a light salad. A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the savory dish well. You may also want to include some whole-grain crackers on the side.
Dinner Delight: For an easy dinner, serve the frittata with roasted vegetables or a side of sautéed kale for added nutrition. A glass of white wine can elevate the dining experience.
Picnic or Meal Prep: This frittata can be enjoyed cold or warm, making it a great option for packable lunches or picnics. Slice it into wedges and place them in a container for easy transport.
Garnish Suggestions: Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, on top when serving for added freshness and flavor.

how to store Ham and Spinach Frittata

Storing Ham and Spinach Frittata is straightforward. To keep your leftovers fresh and tasty:

Refrigerate: Allow any remaining frittata to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover the skillet with plastic wrap or transfer the slices to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you have a lot of leftovers and want to save some for later, you can freeze the frittata. Cut it into individual slices, place a piece of parchment paper between each slice (to prevent sticking), and put them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, you can place individual slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Just cover them with foil to prevent them from drying out.

tips to make Ham and Spinach Frittata

Customize Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. You can add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or onions for extra flavor. This recipe is very forgiving and works well with various vegetables.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach gives a better flavor and texture than frozen. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid a soggy frittata.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese. Feta cheese adds a tangy flavor, while Swiss cheese provides a nutty taste.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the frittata while it’s baking. Overcooking can lead to dry texture. Remove it from the oven as soon as it’s just set in the center.
Season Well: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning makes a significant difference in taste.

variation

You can easily adapt this Ham and Spinach Frittata recipe to suit your dietary preferences or to utilize what’s in your pantry:

Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham entirely and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for a tasty vegetarian frittata.
Adding Spices: Spice it up by including some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who like a kick.
Different Meats: Try using cooked sausage or bacon in place of the ham if you want a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use any type of ham for this frittata?

Yes, you can use any cooked ham, such as leftover holiday ham or deli ham. Just be sure to dice it into small pieces for even distribution throughout the frittata.

How do I know when the frittata is done?

A frittata is done when it is puffed up and golden brown on top. You can insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the frittata is cooked through.

Can I make this frittata ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the frittata the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the morning for a quick breakfast or meal throughout the week.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The best way to reheat leftovers is to place them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Covering them while reheating will help retain moisture.

Can I freeze leftover frittata?

Yes, you can freeze slices of frittata. Just be sure to place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking and store them in an airtight container. Reheat from frozen when you are ready to enjoy!

In summary, the Ham and Spinach Frittata is a versatile and easy meal suitable for any time of the day. With its simple preparation, it makes a delicious and nutritious dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you serve it warm or cold, this frittata is an excellent way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying great flavor. Give it a try, and you’ll have a fantastic recipe in your collection!