a colorful vegetable frittata in a skillet

Leftover frittatas

frittata forward: a zero waste trend

By:

Savory Touch

Published:

30 May 2025
a colorful vegetable frittata in a skillet
Ever stared into your fridge, a graveyard of good intentions and half-eaten veggies? I know I have. Last week, it was some wilting broccoli and a lone, slightly sad zucchini. That's when it hit me: frittata. Not just any frittata, but a zero-waste frittata. A delicious, eggy beacon of sustainability, rescuing forgotten produce from the compost bin and transforming them into a culinary masterpiece. Think of this recipe as more of a guide than a strict set of rules. It's about using what you have and reducing food waste, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a brunch that feels good for both your stomach and the planet.
a close-up of a colorful, rustic frittata with visible vegetable pieces
The beauty of a frittata lies in its versatility. It’s a forgiving dish, happy to accommodate almost any vegetable or cooked protein you throw its way. Got some leftover roasted chicken from Sunday dinner? Dice it up and toss it in! That half-used jar of sun-dried tomatoes lurking in the back of the pantry? Perfect! This recipe is less about following a precise formula and more about embracing creativity and resourcefulness. Plus, its so colorful! When you're done, put it on the table to show your family and friends and watch their faces glow!
a sliced frittata on a plate, showing the layers of egg and vegetables
Frittatas aren't just delicious and eco-friendly; they're also surprisingly easy to make. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of creativity, you can whip up a satisfying and nutritious meal in under an hour. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this frittata recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your zero-waste arsenal. So, gather your neglected veggies, crack those eggs, and let's get cooking! I was a little nervous when I first tried it, but the smiles on everyone's faces made it worth it!
an overhead shot of a person slicing a frittata in a skillet

Required Equipments

  • Large Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Non-stick Skillet (Oven-Safe)
  • Spatula
  • Oven

Frittata Forward: A Zero Waste Trend: Frequently Asked Questions

Frittata Forward: A Zero Waste Trend

Transform your leftover vegetables into a delicious and zero-waste frittata! This easy recipe is a sustainable and satisfying way to enjoy a flavorful meal.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the middle.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1/4 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy), 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper until well combined and slightly frothy. This ensures a light and airy frittata. A fork will work, too, dont worry too much.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 10-inch non-stick, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the frittata to a baking dish later, though it's nice to only use one pan! Saute 1 diced onion for about 3 minutes, until softened and translucent. Don't let it brown; keep it moving.
  4. Add 1 cup of chopped mixed vegetables (such as broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, and zucchini) to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. These amounts don't have to be followed perfectly. I usually just throw in whatever I have in the fridge.
  5. Reduce the heat to low. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the vegetables in the skillet. Use a spatula to gently distribute the vegetables so they are evenly dispersed throughout the egg mixture. Be careful not to over-stir.
  6. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) over the top of the frittata. The cheese adds flavor and a lovely golden crust. For a vegan option, use your favorite plant-based cheese alternative or sprinkle with nutritional yeast.
  7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the frittata is set and the top is lightly golden brown. The center should be firm to the touch. If it jiggles slightly, it needs a few more minutes.
  8. Remove the frittata from the oven and let it cool in the skillet for a few minutes. This makes it easier to slice and serve. Run a spatula around the edges of the skillet to loosen the frittata before slicing.
  9. Slice the frittata into wedges and serve warm. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives, for added flavor and visual appeal. It's great with a side salad or some toast! Enjoy!

📝 Notes

    🍎 Nutrition

    Calories: 250 kcal

    Protein: 15g

    Fat: 18g

    Carbohydrates: 10g

    Fiber: 2g

    Calcium: 150mg

    Waste isn't waste until we waste it. A frittata is a canvas, not a calculation.

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