The agretti frittata is a simple, wholesome recipe that captures all the flavors of spring in a tasty and versatile dish. Agretti, also known as barba di frate, are a seasonal ingredient much appreciated for their delicate, slightly tangy flavor — perfect for quick preparations full of freshness.
Often served as a side dish, for example agretti with lemon or agretti sautéed with garlic, oil and chili, these vegetables are also great when they become the star of a more complete dish.
In this frittata they are combined with eggs to create a perfect balance of tenderness and flavor, ideal for a light lunch or a quick dinner.
It can be prepared in just a few minutes and enjoyed both warm and cold, making it perfect for picnics, meals on the go or spring buffets.
Easy to customize with the addition of cheeses or other ingredients, this recipe highlights the simplicity of agretti, turning a classic side into a complete and appetizing dish.
Now take a minute to read the recipe and then…let’s COOK and EAT!!
See also
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Cost: Budget-friendly
- Preparation time: 20 Minutes
- Cooking time: 10 Minutes
- Cooking methods: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Spring
Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper (ground)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
- 9 oz agretti
- to taste extra virgin olive oil
Tools
- 1 Knife
- 1 Pot
- 1 Bowl
- 1 Frying pan
- 1 Lid
- 1 Colander
Steps
To prepare the agretti frittata, first carefully clean the agretti by removing the roots and rinse them under running water.
Blanch the agretti for 3–4 minutes in salted boiling water and, once drained, let them cool in a colander before squeezing them well.
Meanwhile, break the eggs into a bowl and beat them together with the salt and grated cheese.
When the eggs are well combined, add the now-cool agretti to the bowl. Mix well so that the agretti are completely immersed and evenly distributed in the eggs.
At this point, heat the oil in a non-stick pan and pour in the egg mixture.
Cook over medium-low heat until the agretti frittata sets on one side, then using a plate or a lid, flip it and continue cooking for a few more minutes until evenly golden.
Serve it still warm or at room temperature — it will be great either way 😉.
Storage
Once cooked, let the agretti frittata cool completely to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or cover it well with plastic wrap. In the refrigerator it will keep for 2 days while maintaining flavor and texture.
If you want to reheat it, you can use a pan over low heat or the microwave for a few minutes: this will make it soft again without drying out too much. Alternatively, it’s also excellent cold — perfect for a quick lunch or to take with you.
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
Can I bake the agretti frittata in the oven?
Yes, you can bake it in the oven at 356°F for about 20 minutes. Oven baking is a lighter alternative to pan-frying.
Can the agretti frittata be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, well covered or in an airtight container.
What pairs well with the agretti frittata?
It goes great with toasted bread, fresh cheeses, or a side of potatoes.
Can it be made without cheese?
Yes, the agretti frittata is also delicious without cheese — perfect for a lighter or dairy-free version.
How to make the agretti frittata fluffier?
You can add one tablespoon of milk to the eggs and beat them well to incorporate air.
