Frittata Di Mozzarella: A Cheesy Embrace of Simple Elegance

There’s a particular magic in dishes that require little fuss but deliver immense satisfaction. For me, the Frittata di Mozzarella is one such treasure. I recall a sun-drenched afternoon in a small trattoria nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany, the air thick with the scent of basil and sun-baked earth. The waiter, with a twinkle in his eye, presented a golden disc, its surface dotted with molten mozzarella. That first bite – the tender eggs, the creamy pockets of cheese, the subtle whisper of parsley – was a revelation in its simplicity. It wasn’t just food; it was an edible hug, a testament to how a few humble ingredients, treated with care, can sing with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feels both sophisticated enough for a gathering and comforting enough for a quiet evening.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 1 pie
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

This recipe celebrates the beauty of minimalism, relying on a few high-quality ingredients to shine.

• 8 large eggs
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 2 tablespoons flat leaf parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Equipment Needed

• A large bowl for whisking
• An 8-inch frying pan (preferably non-stick)
• A large plate for flipping
• A serving plate

Instructions

Crafting this Frittata di Mozzarella is a straightforward dance between the stovetop and a patient hand. The key is to coax the eggs to a perfect, tender set without overcooking them.

1. Begin by whisking the 8 large eggs together in a large bowl.
2. To the beaten eggs, add the 8 ounces of mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes, the 1 tablespoon of milk, and the 2 tablespoons of chopped flat leaf parsley. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the mozzarella cubes are evenly distributed.
3. Pour the 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil into your 8-inch frying pan. Place the pan over medium-high heat and heat the oil until it begins to sizzle. You’ll know it’s ready when a drop of egg mixture added to the pan immediately starts to cook.
4. Once the oil is hot, pour in the egg mixture. Let it sit undisturbed for a moment, allowing the bottom to begin setting.
5. Now, using a spatula, gently pull the cooked egg mixture from the edges towards the center of the pan. Rotate and turn the pan as you do this, allowing the uncooked egg to flow into the spaces created. This technique helps the frittata to set evenly and develop a beautiful, slightly browned underside.
6. Continue this process for approximately 5 minutes, or until the mixture feels firm to the touch and appears reasonably set. You’re looking for a texture where the edges are cooked through, but the center might still be a little soft.
7. This is the moment of truth: the flip. To do this, place a large plate on top of the frying pan, covering the frittata completely. With one decisive motion, turn the pan upside down, so the frittata falls onto the plate with the cooked side facing upwards. Be confident and swift to avoid any mishaps.
8. Carefully slide the frittata back into the hot frying pan. The previously uncooked side will now be on the bottom, ready to cook.
9. Shake the frying pan gently to ensure the frittata settles properly. Cook for a further 3 to 4 minutes. This final stage will cook the remaining uncooked egg and give the bottom a lovely golden hue.
10. Once cooked, slide the frittata out of the pan onto a clean serving plate.

Expert Tips & Tricks

The beauty of a frittata lies in its forgiving nature, but a few nuances can elevate it from good to truly exceptional.

• Mozzarella Choice: While any good quality mozzarella will work, a fresh, low-moisture mozzarella will melt beautifully without releasing too much water. If you’re using very fresh mozzarella packed in brine, be sure to pat it dry thoroughly before cubing.
• Pan Temperature Control: The key to a perfectly cooked frittata is managing the heat. If the pan gets too hot, the bottom will brown too quickly while the inside remains raw. If it’s too low, the frittata can become rubbery. Adjust the heat as needed.
• The Flip: If the flip feels daunting, you can also finish the frittata under a broiler. Once the bottom is set and you’ve flipped it, place the pan under a preheated broiler for a minute or two until the top is golden and set. Keep a very close eye on it, as broilers can be fierce.
• Parsley Freshness: Use fresh flat leaf parsley for the best flavor. Dried parsley simply won’t impart the same vibrant, herbaceous notes.
• Doneness Test: A good indicator of doneness is a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the pan. It should feel set but not rigid.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Frittata di Mozzarella is wonderfully versatile and shines whether served hot, warm, or at room temperature.

• Serving: Serve the frittata directly from the serving plate. It’s delicious on its own, or you can accompany it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, some crusty bread, or roasted cherry tomatoes. For an Italian picnic, it’s an absolute dream.
• Storage: Leftover frittata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm it in a covered pan over low heat, or for a quicker method, a few seconds in the microwave. It’s also perfectly delightful served cold.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for a single serving of this delightful Frittata di Mozzarella. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	409.7 kcal	–
Total Fat	32.9 g	50%
Saturated Fat	12 g	60%
Cholesterol	468.3 mg	156%
Sodium	498.6 mg	20%
Total Carbohydrate	2.3 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	1.4 g	5%
Protein	25.3 g	50%

Variations & Substitutions

While this classic Frittata di Mozzarella is a triumph of simplicity, feel free to explore variations that suit your palate or what you have on hand.

• Herbal Twists: Swap the parsley for other fresh herbs like chives, basil, or a touch of oregano. A mix of herbs can also be lovely.
• Cheesy Enhancements: While mozzarella is the star, a small amount of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano cheese can add a nutty depth of flavor.
• Vegetable Additions: For a more substantial frittata, sautéed onions, peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added to the egg mixture before cooking. Ensure any vegetables are cooked and excess moisture is removed before adding them to the eggs.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the egg mixture.

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella instead of cubes?
A: Yes, you can use pre-shredded mozzarella. However, cubing it yourself often results in better texture and prevents the cheese from becoming too oily when melted.

Q: My frittata is sticking to the pan, what went wrong?
A: Ensure your pan is well-seasoned or non-stick, and that you used enough oil. Also, be sure not to overcook the frittata, which can make it adhere more firmly.

Q: Can I make this frittata ahead of time?
A: Yes, frittata is excellent for making ahead. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator.

Q: What is the best way to reheat leftover frittata?
A: Gently rewarming it in a covered pan over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) is ideal to maintain its texture.

Q: Can I make this frittata dairy-free?
A: You can try substituting the mozzarella with a good quality dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well, and use a plant-based milk.

Final Thoughts

The Frittata di Mozzarella is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the simple pleasures of good food. It’s a dish that embodies the spirit of Italian home cooking – unfussy, yet bursting with flavor and warmth. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick lunch, a light supper, or as part of a larger spread, it’s guaranteed to impress with its comforting texture and cheesy goodness. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the ease of this preparation, and enjoy the delightful taste of pure, unadulterated deliciousness. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations and any delightful twists you discover!