Neapolitan Spaghetti Frittata with Tomato and Basil

Spaghetti Frittata alla Napoletana Recipe

The Spaghetti Frittata alla Napoletana, or Neapolitan-style spaghetti frittata, is a classic Italian dish that brings together the comforting flavors of pasta, eggs, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a filling meal, it combines traditional ingredients in a simple yet delicious way. Whether served as a main dish or a hearty side, it’s a beloved staple that showcases the beauty of Italian cooking with a twist. Let’s dive into the steps and ingredients needed to recreate this savory masterpiece.

Servings: 8

Category: Main Dish

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients for Spaghetti Frittata alla Napoletana

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spaghetti Frittata alla Napoletana

1. Boil the Spaghetti: Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add a generous pinch of salt. Drop the spaghetti into the pot and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.

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2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, peel and finely chop the white onion. In a large saucepan, heat a couple of tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it gently, stirring frequently until it becomes soft and translucent—about 3-5 minutes.

3. Cook the Tomato Sauce: Once the onion is softened, add the passata (pureed tomato) to the pan. Stir the mixture and season with salt. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid, allowing the sauce to simmer slowly for approximately 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking will help the flavors develop beautifully.

4. Add Basil: Toward the end of the cooking process, stir in some fresh basil leaves to infuse the sauce with aromatic flavors. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper, if necessary. Once the sauce is ready, remove it from heat and set it aside.

5. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, crack all 8 eggs and whisk them well. Add the grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, whole milk, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Continue whisking until everything is fully incorporated, creating a smooth egg mixture.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the slightly cooled spaghetti with the tomato sauce you just made. Gently toss to ensure that the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.

7. Cook the Frittata: Heat a large, deep skillet or frying pan (about 30 cm in diameter) over medium heat. Add a tablespoon or two of extra virgin olive oil to the pan, ensuring the surface is well-coated. Once the oil is heated, pour the egg mixture over the pasta, ensuring it spreads evenly. Allow the frittata to cook undisturbed for about 10 minutes on medium heat. The edges will begin to set while the center remains slightly soft.

8. Flip the Frittata: After 10 minutes, the frittata should have formed a golden-brown crust on the bottom. To flip it, carefully slide a large, flat plate or a smooth lid under the frittata. With a swift motion, invert the pan so the frittata falls onto the plate or lid. Gently slide the frittata back into the pan with the uncooked side down. This will cook the other side until golden brown and firm, which should take another 5-7 minutes.

9. Serve and Enjoy: Once fully cooked and golden on both sides, remove the frittata from the heat. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. The frittata can be served warm or at room temperature, and it’s perfect for a hearty family meal or a special occasion.

Tips for the Best Frittata alla Napoletana

• Pasta Tip: While traditionally spaghetti is used, you can opt for other types of pasta, such as linguine or penne, if preferred.
• Egg Mixture: If you want a richer flavor, you can increase the amount of cheese or add a dash of cream to the egg mixture.
• Basil: If fresh basil isn’t available, a pinch of dried basil can be substituted, but fresh basil brings out the best flavor.
• Storage: Leftover frittata can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the oven for a few minutes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Conclusion

This Spaghetti Frittata alla Napoletana offers an excellent fusion of flavors and textures, from the rich tomato sauce to the fluffy egg base. It’s an ideal dish for gatherings or simply as a comforting meal that brings the essence of Italian cuisine into your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s a recipe that will surely impress everyone at the table. Try it for your next meal and discover how easy and satisfying it can be to create this authentic Italian delight.