Kale & Leeks Frittata Recipe
The Kale & Leeks Frittata is a delightful Italian dish that combines the earthy flavors of kale and leeks with the creamy richness of cheeses, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or brunch. This frittata is not only vegetarian but also packed with nutrition, offering a burst of flavors that will invigorate your morning routine. Serve it with buttered toast and a glass of mulled apple juice to create a wholesome and satisfying meal that will keep you energized throughout the day.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Eggs | 4 – beaten |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/3 cup – grated |
| Provolone Cheese | 1/2 cup – grated |
| Fresh Thyme Leaves | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried Oregano | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Leek | 1 – white and green parts, chopped small |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic | 1 clove – minced |
| Onion | 1 – finely chopped |
| Ricotta Cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Kale (or Spinach) | 1/2 cup – chopped |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 280 |
| Protein | 16 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Total Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 180 mg |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
-
Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs with grated Parmesan and Provolone cheeses, fresh thyme leaves, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients vigorously until the mixture is fluffy and well blended. Set this aside as you prepare the vegetables. -
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté these aromatics until they turn golden brown, allowing the onions to develop a slight caramelization, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. -
Cook the Leeks
After the garlic and onion have reached the desired color, add the chopped white parts of the leeks to the skillet. Cook the leeks until they become soft and tender, which will take about 5 minutes. -
Incorporate Greens
Once the leeks are tender, add the green parts of the leeks along with the chopped kale (or spinach). Sprinkle in a little more salt, and allow the greens to cook down until they are wilted, and most of the moisture has evaporated from the skillet. This will take an additional 3 to 4 minutes. -
Combine Egg and Vegetables
Carefully pour the egg and cheese mixture over the cooked greens and leeks. Using a spatula, gently swirl the mixture to ensure that the eggs are evenly distributed throughout the kale and leek mixture. This will help the frittata cook evenly. -
Cook the Frittata
Allow the frittata to cook undisturbed for about 7 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to set. At this point, dot the top of the frittata with dollops of ricotta cheese for added creaminess and flavor. -
Cover and Finish Cooking
Cover the skillet with a lid and continue to cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes or until the eggs are fully set and the frittata has puffed up slightly. You can check for doneness by gently shaking the skillet; the center should be firm. -
Serve
Once the frittata is cooked through and golden, turn off the heat and let it cool for a minute before slicing it into wedges. Serve the Kale & Leeks Frittata warm or at room temperature alongside buttered toast, a glass of mulled apple juice, and fresh fruits to complete your wholesome breakfast experience.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Greens: Feel free to swap out kale for spinach or any other leafy greens you have on hand. Each variety brings a unique flavor and texture.
- Add More Vegetables: You can include additional vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make Ahead: This frittata can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven, making it a convenient option for busy mornings.
Enjoy this delightful Kale & Leeks Frittata, a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul, embodying the essence of comfort food. Perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring on your own, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
