For those of you not familiar, let me introduce you to the fritatta.  A frittata is an Italian-style omelet and, in my opinion, is much easier to make than the traditional French version.   Like omelets, frittatas can be made with endless combinations of cheeses, meats, and vegetables.  The ease of preparation for the frittata is two fold.  First of all, a fritatta is made in a skillet, and as long as the skillet is large enough, can feed a group.  (Those of you who have ever tried to serve omelets to order for a crowd know its not the easiest or most efficient way to serve brunch to a group.  And I certainly don’t recommend it!)  Second of all, the frittata does not need the constant attention of an omelet, and finishes baking in the oven.  You get the best of both worlds with frittatas – ease of preparation and it still tastes as great as its cousin, the omelet.

Frittatas start off much like a simple omelet.   Crack some eggs and into the skillet they go.  However, unlike an omelet, you do not stir the eggs and instead let them begin to cook on the bottom and around the edges.  (This creates a slight crust and contrasts nicely with the fluffier eggs throughout.)  Once the bottom starts to set, add all your fillings (in this case shredded cheddar cheese, cubed ham, and herbs).   Instead of finishing the frittata on the stove top, pop it into the oven to finish cooking through.  This allows the eggs to bake evenly and creates a light, puffy texture.  The frittata is done once the center is cooked through and no longer wet (a good jiggle of the pan will let you know.)  Once the frittata has cooled for a minute or two, carefully slide the entire frittata onto a cutting board.  Cut into wedges and serve.

Not only is this a great way to entertain a crowd for breakfast, but its also a perfect meal when all you have in the fridge are eggs and cheese – and perhaps some left over veggies (if you are lucky.)  Its quick and simple and you get to clean out your refrigerator to boot!  What could be better than that?  The sky is the limit with variations, so go ahead and get creative.

Recipe: Herbed Ham & Cheese Frittata