She Strengthens

Summer Squash Frittata: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Breakfast

As the summer months approach, our gardens and farmers’ markets are filled with an abundance of fresh produce, including zucchini blossoms. These delicate flowers can be used to create a unique and satisfying breakfast or brunch dish.

The Perfect Ingredient: Zucchini Blossoms

Zucchini blossoms can be found in gourmet grocery stores or at the farmers’ market during the summer months. When selecting, look for firm, full, and bruise-free blossoms. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to use. If you can’t find zucchini blossoms, spinach makes a great substitute.

A Delicious Recipe

This summer squash frittata recipe yields 6 servings and can be prepared in just 35 minutes. With an easy level of difficulty, it’s perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:

• 8 large eggs
• 1/2 cup half-and-half
• 1/2 cup finely grated aged Manchego cheese (about 2 ounces)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/4 stick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound small zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch-thick rounds
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh marjoram leaves
• 16 zucchini blossoms, stems and pistils removed and blossoms cut in half

Cooking with Ease

To begin, heat the broiler to high and position a rack in the center of the oven. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, 1/4 cup of the cheese, salt, and a generous pinch of freshly ground black pepper until thoroughly combined.

Next, heat butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe frying pan over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and marjoram, seasoning well with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook until zucchini edges are crispy and browned, and the interior is tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. Then, add zucchini blossoms and cook briefly until wilted but not falling apart, about 2 minutes.

Finishing Touches

Reduce heat to medium low, pour egg mixture over zucchini mixture, and evenly distribute remaining cheese on top. Cook until a 2-inch-wide border of egg around the perimeter of the pan is firm and beginning to pull away from the sides, about 10 minutes. Finally, place the pan under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes or until the eggs are set and the edges are golden brown. Cut into wedges and serve hot or at room temperature with a green salad.