close-up shot of a colorful zero-waste frittata in a cast-iron skillet

Leftover frittatas

zero waste frittata: modern culinary gem

By:

Savory Touch

Published:

02 Jun 2025
close-up shot of a colorful zero-waste frittata in a cast-iron skillet
Ever find yourself tossing out perfectly good veggie scraps? Carrot peels, broccoli stems, the ends of onions… it all adds up. But what if I told you that those 'scraps' could be the star of a delightful, nutritious meal? My zero-waste frittata is the answer! It's a culinary gem born from a desire to reduce food waste and get creative in the kitchen. It's also great for days when you want to clean out your fridge and avoid going to the grocery store. One of my friends said how they’ve cut grocery spending almost by 50% after learning about this recipe and trying it out.
overhead shot of various vegetable scraps (carrot peels, broccoli stems, onion ends) arranged neatly on a wooden cutting board
This frittata isn't just about being eco-conscious; it's about flavor! By using a mix of different vegetable scraps, you create a complex and interesting flavor profile that you wouldn't get with a single vegetable. It's like a treasure hunt in your fridge, discovering new and exciting combinations. A little tip to add on is to add a little spice to make it even more appealing to your taste buds. My mom is an expert in spice, she taught me everything I know. She has an obsession with spice; every time I visit her, she has a new spice for me to try.
a close-up shot of the zero-waste frittata being sliced into wedges, showcasing the colorful array of vegetables inside
So, gather those veggie scraps, preheat your oven, and let's transform what others might see as trash into a culinary masterpiece. This frittata is not only delicious and satisfying but also a small step towards a more sustainable way of eating. Ready to get started? Let's jump into the ingredients and instructions! Oh, I’m sure you are going to love this recipe, just wait and see, maybe you can even use it to impress your family and friends.
a person holding a slice of the zero-waste frittata, with a bite taken out, showcasing the texture and layers

Required Equipments

  • Large Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Frying Pan (oven-safe)
  • Spatula
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife

Zero Waste Frittata: Modern Culinary Gem: Frequently Asked Questions

Zero Waste Frittata: Modern Culinary Gem

Transform your vegetable scraps into a delicious and eco-friendly meal with this zero-waste frittata recipe! It's a flavorful and sustainable way to reduce food waste and enjoy a nutritious dish.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position to ensure even baking.
  2. Gather all your veggie scraps. This could include carrot peels, broccoli stems, onion ends, potato skins, tomato cores, or any other vegetable trimmings you've collected. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Don't worry about perfection; a little imperfection adds character.
  3. Chop the tougher vegetable scraps into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook more evenly. For softer scraps like tomato cores or potato skins, a rough chop is fine.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1/4 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy), 1/4 cup of grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan work well), 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until well combined and slightly frothy. This ensures a light and airy frittata. A pinch of nutmeg can add a delightful warmth.
  5. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil (or any cooking oil you prefer) in an oven-safe frying pan (about 9-10 inches in diameter) over medium heat. Make sure the pan is well-seasoned or non-stick to prevent sticking.
  6. Add the chopped vegetable scraps to the pan and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Add a clove of minced garlic for extra flavor.
  7. If you're using any cooked leftover vegetables (like roasted potatoes or steamed green beans), add them to the pan during the last minute of sautéing. This warms them through without overcooking.
  8. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sautéed vegetables in the pan. Use a spatula to gently distribute the vegetables throughout the egg mixture, ensuring they're evenly dispersed.
  9. Cook the frittata on the stovetop for about 3-5 minutes, or until the edges begin to set. You'll notice the bottom of the frittata starting to firm up. Don't stir it during this time; let it cook undisturbed.
  10. Transfer the frying pan to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the frittata is set in the center and lightly golden brown on top. The frittata should puff up slightly and look firm to the touch. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil.
  11. Carefully remove the frittata from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. This helps it set further and makes it easier to slice.
  12. Run a spatula around the edges of the frittata to loosen it from the pan. Gently slide the frittata onto a cutting board.
  13. Slice the frittata into wedges and serve warm. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil for a pop of color and flavor. A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt adds a creamy tang.
  14. Enjoy your delicious and zero-waste frittata! It's a wonderful way to reduce food waste and enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal. What a waste is it when the leftover food is been thrown away.

📝 Notes

  • Feel free to add cooked meat, such as bacon, sausage, or ham, or use a vegetarian substitute.
  • Use a variety of colorful vegetables to make the frittata even more appealing.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 250 kcal

Protein: 18g

Fat: 18g

Carbohydrates: 5g

Fiber: 1g

Calcium: 150mg

Waste is not waste until we waste it. – Will.i.am

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