Make the most of asparagus season with this simple dairy-free spring omelette. Stuffed with asparagus spears, peas, onions, mint and parsley, this vegetarian recipe is not only delicious, but nutritious too. Serve for brunch, lunch or supper, as an appetiser or even at a picnic. It's also quick and easy to make.
Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan or skillet. It needs to be oven proof as it will go under the grill (broiler) later. I use a cast iron skillet, which is excellent for this job.
1 tbsp olive oil
Over a moderate heat, fry the onions for five minutes, stirring occasionally.
1 red onion
Meanwhile, beat the eggs in a bowl with a good pinch of salt and pepper. I use a fork for this.
3 large eggs, 1 pinch sea salt, good grinding of black pepper
Snap the woody ends off the asparagus spears and chop into 3 cm (1 inch) pieces. Add them to the onions and allow to cook for three minutes. Stir occasionally. Add the peas and garlic and cook for a further minute.
Give a good stir, scatter the mint and parsley over the top, then pour in the beaten eggs. Tilt the pan, so that the eggs are evenly distributed. Cook for three minutes when you should see that the egg has nearly set.
1 handful fresh parsley, 1 handful mint
Meanwhile put the grill (broiler)on high, but not the highest heat. Pop the pan under the grill (broiler) and leave it for a couple of minutes to set the top.
It's important not to overcook the frittata, or it might end up rubbery, rather than succulent.
Let the frittata stand for a couple of minutes, then cut into halves or wedges and serve.
Notes
The frittata is delicious eaten hot from the oven with chips. However, allow it to cool before cutting into wedges and you can eat it at room temperature with a salad or in a sandwich.Alternatively, make it in advance and serve in small slices as an appetiser or as part of a picnic. You can double the quantity to serve four as a main meal or six as a starter or picnic item. But as it will be thicker, you will need to cook it for a few minutes longer, both on the stove top and under the grill (broiler).Please note: calories and other nutritional information are per serving. They’re approximate and will depend on serving size and exact ingredients used.