Frittata alla Pizzaiola: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Frittata
Category: Main Course
Serves: 6
If you’re looking for a savory, satisfying dish with a burst of Mediterranean flavors, then this Frittata alla Pizzaiola will quickly become a favorite. Combining creamy ricotta, fresh mozzarella, and the tangy goodness of canned tomatoes, it’s like a pizza and frittata came together to create a flavor-packed meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as part of a brunch spread, this recipe is sure to win over anyone who loves hearty Italian comfort food.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 6 |
| Cow’s Ricotta Cheese | 450g |
| Canned Peeled Tomatoes | 350g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 50g |
| Mozzarella | 100g |
| Dried Oregano | to taste |
| Baking Soda | 1g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 20g (15g + 5g) |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black Pepper | to taste |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Start by slicing the canned peeled tomatoes into chunks. In a large skillet, heat 15g of extra virgin olive oil and add the garlic clove, peeled and smashed. Once the garlic releases its fragrance, add the chopped tomatoes, and allow them to cook. Add 4 to 5 tablespoons of water to prolong the cooking process, seasoning with salt to taste. Let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Step 2: Prepare the Mozzarella
While the tomatoes are simmering, slice the mozzarella into 2 cm thick pieces, then cut those pieces into strips, followed by cubes of the same size. Lay the cubed mozzarella on a clean dish towel to absorb excess moisture. This will help prevent the mozzarella from releasing its liquid during the baking process.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
Place the ricotta cheese in a fine mesh sieve set over a bowl, and use a spatula to sift it through. Once smooth, crack in the 6 eggs and mix well. Add grated Parmigiano Reggiano to the mixture, followed by salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Finally, add a pinch of baking soda to help lighten the mixture.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a round 22 cm diameter baking pan with a little extra virgin olive oil. This will help the parchment paper stick to the surface of the pan. Then, line the pan with parchment paper and pour the ricotta and egg mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Bake the Frittata
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) for static heat, or 170°C (340°F) for fan-assisted heat. Place the pan in the middle of the oven and bake the frittata for about 40 minutes. If using the fan-assisted setting, bake for approximately 30 minutes. The frittata should be golden on top and fully set in the center.
Step 6: Add the Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella
Once the frittata is baked, remove it from the oven. Spread the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the top, and then scatter the cubed mozzarella pieces across the surface. Return the frittata to the oven for a few more minutes, just long enough for the mozzarella to melt and become beautifully gooey.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the mozzarella is melted, remove the frittata from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Finish by sprinkling a pinch of dried oregano over the top to add a lovely, aromatic finish. Slice and serve warm, perfect for any occasion.
Tips for Success:
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to swap out mozzarella for other cheeses you enjoy, such as provolone or a sharp cheddar, for a twist on the traditional flavor.
- Tomato Variations: If you have fresh tomatoes, you can easily substitute them for the canned variety. Just make sure to remove the skin and cook them down into a sauce consistency.
- Add Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh basil or parsley can elevate the flavor even more, giving the dish a burst of freshness right before serving.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~270 kcal |
| Protein | ~18g |
| Carbohydrates | ~6g |
| Fat | ~20g |
| Saturated Fat | ~8g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~300mg |
Frittata alla Pizzaiola is an ideal way to enjoy the delicious flavors of pizza in a healthier, more versatile form. It combines the richness of ricotta and eggs with the freshness of tomatoes and the comforting stretch of mozzarella, all topped with fragrant oregano. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal, a gathering, or a casual dinner, this recipe is bound to impress with its simplicity and robust flavor.
