Wild Asparagus and Speck Frittata: A Perfect Italian Delight
Category: Main Course
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
This Frittata con Asparagi Selvatici e Speck is a delightful Italian dish, perfect for a light yet flavorful meal. The wild asparagus, known for its delicate flavor, pairs beautifully with the savory speck and rich cheeses. It’s an easy-to-make dish that brings out the best of fresh ingredients. Whether youโre looking for a satisfying breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this frittata will not disappoint.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Wild Asparagus | 500g |
| Eggs | 5 |
| Speck (smoked ham) | 80g |
| Pecorino Cheese | 2 |
| Grana Padano DOP | 2 |
| Coarse Salt | 1 pinch |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 6 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Asparagus:
Start by washing the wild asparagus under running water. Using a vegetable peeler, peel off the outer fibrous skin until you reach the tender, lighter-colored part of the stalk. To remove any potential dirt, rinse the asparagus thoroughly. If you’re unsure about cleaning asparagus, check out a detailed guide from the culinary school for the best techniques. -
Cooking the Asparagus:
Once the asparagus is cleaned, tie it into a bundle and steam it. Fill an asparagus steamer with boiling water and add a pinch of salt. Place the asparagus into the steaming basket and cook for about 10 minutes, or until tender but still vibrant green. Once cooked, remove it from the steamer and let it drain. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing the stalks into bite-sized pieces, leaving the tips intact. -
Prepare the Speck:
While the asparagus cools, slice the speck into strips about half a centimeter wide. -
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the speck pieces to the egg mixture and stir to combine. Grate the Pecorino and Grana Padano cheeses and fold them into the egg mixture, ensuring a smooth and well-blended consistency. -
Cooking the Frittata:
In a large frying pan, heat 5-6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the egg mixture to the pan. Reduce the heat slightly and cook the frittata gently, swirling the pan occasionally to ensure the eggs set evenly. You can cover the pan with a lid to help the top cook through, or if you’re feeling confident, you can flip it using the lid as support. To flip the frittata, carefully slide the uncooked side onto the lid, then invert the pan to return it to the heat and cook the other side. -
Final Touches:
Cook the frittata for about 10 minutes on each side, or until golden and firm. You can test it by gently pressing down on the topโif it feels firm, itโs ready to serve. -
Serving:
Once cooked, slide the frittata onto a plate and cut it into wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips:
- If wild asparagus is unavailable, you can substitute with regular green asparagus.
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the egg mixture.
- The frittata can be enjoyed cold as well, making it a great option for picnics or packed lunches.
Why Youโll Love This Frittata:
The combination of tender wild asparagus, smoky speck, and the rich flavors of Pecorino and Grana Padano cheeses makes this frittata an irresistible dish. The soft, fluffy eggs provide the perfect base to highlight these ingredients, while the extra virgin olive oil adds a silky finish. Whether youโre a fan of Italian cuisine or just in the mood for a comforting, savory dish, this wild asparagus and speck frittata is sure to satisfy your cravings.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this flavorful Italian classic that brings a little taste of Italy to your table!
