This fluffy frittata blends eggs with cherry tomatoes, spinach, bell pepper, onion, zucchini, and optional cheese to create a protein-rich, colorful dish. Prepared quickly in an air fryer, it delivers a golden finish with minimal fuss. Ideal for breakfast or a light meal, this Italian-inspired dish is vegetarian and gluten-free. Easy to customize with seasonal veggies or dairy-free cheese alternatives. Perfect for busy days when a nutritious, vibrant dish is desired.
The first time I made a frittata in my air fryer, I stood there watching through the glass like it was magic. Something about watching those little bubbles rise and the edges turn golden made me feel like I had discovered a secret. Now my air fryer sits on my counter permanently, ready for those mornings when I want something substantial but don't want to heat up the whole kitchen.
Last Sunday, my sister dropped by unexpectedly and I threw this together using half a bell pepper and some spinach that was on its last legs. She took one bite and asked for the recipe, convinced it was some complicated technique. I just smiled and pointed at the air fryer humming quietly on the counter.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs: Room temperature eggs whisk up fluffier and incorporate better with the milk
- 1/4 cup milk: Any milk works, but whole milk gives the richest texture
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper: Adjust to taste, but don't skip the seasoning entirely
- 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: Oregano, basil, or thyme add that little something extra
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes: They burst beautifully and create little pockets of sweetness
- 1/2 cup baby spinach: Chopped roughly so it distributes evenly throughout
- 1/3 cup red bell pepper: Adds crunch and vibrant color that makes it feel fancy
- 1/4 cup red onion: Finely chopped so it doesn't overwhelm with big chunks
- 1/4 cup zucchini: Diced small so it cooks through in the short time
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta or cheddar: Optional, but cheese makes everything better
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For greasing the pan, butter works too
Instructions
- Whisk your egg mixture:
- Beat the eggs with milk, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs until completely smooth and slightly frothy
- Add all the vegetables:
- Fold in the tomatoes, spinach, bell pepper, onion, zucchini, and cheese if you're using it
- Preheat the air fryer:
- Let it run at 350°F for 3 minutes while you prep your pan
- Prepare your pan:
- Brush a 7-inch oven-safe pan generously with olive oil, getting into the corners
- Pour and place:
- Carefully transfer the mixture to the pan and set it gently in the air fryer basket
- Cook until set:
- Cook at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes until the center is firm and the top is golden
- Rest and serve:
- Let it cool for 2 minutes so it sets properly, then slice into wedges
This recipe became my go-to when I started meal prepping for busy work weeks. There's something so satisfying about opening the fridge and seeing those colorful slices ready to grab, like I've done my future self a huge favor.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this dish is how forgiving it is. I've made it with broccoli and cheddar, mushrooms and Swiss, even leftover roasted vegetables from the night before. Anything in your crisper drawer that needs using up can become breakfast.
Serving Suggestions
While it's perfect on its own, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Toast creates a nice crunch contrast, and fresh fruit on the side makes it feel like weekend brunch any day of the week.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers keep remarkably well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I like to reheat individual slices in the air fryer for 3 minutes at 320°F, which brings back that freshly made texture better than a microwave ever could.
- Wrap slices individually for easy grab-and-go breakfasts
- Freeze portions for up to 2 months if you're meal prepping
- Let it cool completely before storing to prevent condensation
There's something deeply satisfying about a homemade breakfast that feels special but doesn't require a restaurant kitchen. This little frittata has saved countless mornings and fed plenty of unexpected guests, always with the same result: empty plates and happy people.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other vegetables in this frittata?
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Yes, feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or kale for variety and freshness.
- → What is the best way to prepare the pan for cooking?
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Brush a 7-inch oven-safe pan with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after cooking.
- → Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
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Absolutely, you can omit the cheese or use plant-based alternatives, and substitute regular milk with unsweetened plant-based milk.
- → How do I know when the frittata is cooked perfectly?
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Cook until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Cooking usually takes 12-15 minutes at 350°F in the air fryer.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead and refrigerate it briefly before air frying for convenience.