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Calling all pasta enthusiasts and champions of culinary resourcefulness! Do you have leftover cooked pasta languishing in the fridge, destined for a watery fate? Fear not! Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata – Lots of Ways is here to transform those forgotten noodles into a gloriously delicious and versatile dish. This recipe, inspired by the culinary maestro Gennaro Contaldo, is a masterclass in using up leftovers and minimizing waste.

The beauty of Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata lies in its adaptability. This recipe isn’t just about leftover pasta; it’s a welcoming embrace for any leftover vegetables, cheese, or even cooked meats you might have on hand. Simply throw them all together in a bowl, combine them with whisked eggs, and bake until golden brown and bubbly. In minutes, you’ll have a satisfying and comforting frittata that utilizes leftover ingredients and creates a family-friendly meal.

So, gather your leftover pasta army, enlist any stray vegetables or cheese in your fridge, and get ready to experience the magic of Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata. With endless possibilities and minimal waste, this recipe is a true testament to resourceful cooking and delicious leftover transformations!

Difficulty: Easy

Time: 30 minutes

Check out this pasta maker which you can use for this dish by clicking here.

Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata – Lots of Ways Recipe

Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata Recipe Ingredients:

This recipe by Gennaro Contaldo transforms leftover pasta into a delicious and versatile frittata, perfect for a quick and easy meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

Leftover Cooked Pasta: The star of the show! Any type of cooked pasta will work, from spaghetti and penne to fusilli or farfalle. Use about 400 grams (approximately 14 ounces) of cooked pasta.
Eggs: Large eggs are the base for the frittata. You’ll need 4 to make a classic frittata.
Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty and cheesy flavor. Aim for around 40 grams (about 1/4 cup) of Parmesan, plus extra for serving.
Seasonings: Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential for adding flavor.
Optional Additions: While the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, you can also incorporate other ingredients to personalize your frittata. Here are some ideas:
- Cooked Vegetables: Leftover peas, chopped broccoli, zucchini, or even sautéed mushrooms add pops of color, flavor, and nutrients.
- Cooked Meats: Shredded leftover chicken, cooked sausage, or diced ham add protein and heartiness.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh parsley, chives, or basil add a burst of freshness.

Remember: These ingredients are a guideline. Feel free to get creative and use what you have on hand!

Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata Instructions:

Transforming leftover pasta into a delicious Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata is a breeze. Follow these steps for a simple and satisfying dish:

Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Incorporate the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the egg mixture and toss to coat evenly.
Grate the Cheese: Grate your Parmesan cheese and add about half of it to the pasta and egg mixture. Reserve the remaining cheese for topping.
Optional Additions: Now’s the time to get creative! If using any optional additions like cooked vegetables, cooked meats, or fresh herbs, fold them gently into the pasta and egg mixture.
Heat the Pan: Heat a large oven-safe skillet or nonstick pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan.
Pour and Cook: Pour the pasta and egg mixture into the preheated pan. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes, or until the bottom begins to set.
Gently Agitate: Once the bottom is set, gently tilt the pan and use a spatula to push any uncooked egg mixture towards the center. Continue cooking for another few minutes.
Optional Flipping (for a Fully Set Frittata): If you prefer a fully set frittata, you can carefully flip it over. To achieve this, slide the frittata onto a plate. Then, carefully invert the pan over the plate and slide the frittata back into the pan to cook the other side for a few more minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Cheese It Up: Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the frittata during the last few minutes of cooking for a delicious and cheesy topping.
Finishing Touch: Once cooked through, remove the pan from the heat and let the frittata cool slightly before serving.

Oven-Finishing Option: Alternatively, if you don’t want to flip the frittata, you can preheat your oven to broil. Once the bottom of the frittata is set in the pan, transfer it to the oven and broil for a few minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata Serving Suggestions:

Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways:

Hot or Cold: This frittata is delicious served hot or at room temperature. It’s a perfect option for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
Cut and Enjoy: Slice the frittata into wedges and serve it on its own, or with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
On-the-Go Snack: Pack leftover frittata slices for a satisfying and portable snack.
Frittata Picnic: This dish is perfect for picnics! Cut it into wedges and serve it alongside other picnic fare.

With its focus on using leftover pasta and its endless possibilities for customization, Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata is a delicious and resourceful way to reduce food waste in the kitchen! It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into a flavorful and satisfying meal. Here are some additional tips for making Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata:

Use Slightly Undercooked Pasta: For the best texture in the frittata, using leftover pasta that is slightly undercooked is ideal. This allows the pasta to cook further in the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
Don’t Overcook the Eggs: The key to a delicious frittata is to avoid overcooking the eggs. They should be set but still slightly runny in the center for the best texture and flavor.
Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings beyond the classic grated Parmesan cheese. A dollop of pesto, crumbled cooked bacon, or a drizzle of hot sauce can add extra flavor and personality to your frittata.
Reheating Leftovers: Leftover frittata reheats beautifully. Simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

So next time you find yourself with leftover pasta, don’t toss it out! Whip up a delicious and versatile Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata – a tasty and resourceful way to enjoy your favorite leftovers!

Why Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata Is a Great Left Overs Recipe

Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata isn’t just a recipe for leftover pasta, it’s a leftover rockstar! Here’s why it deserves a place in your kitchen arsenal for using up those odds and ends:

The Leftover Whisperer: Got leftover pasta languishing in the fridge? This recipe is its knight in shining armor! Any kind of cooked pasta, from penne to fusilli, gets a magical transformation into a cheesy, eggy masterpiece.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Don’t be fooled by the short ingredient list. Eggs, cheese, and seasonings come together to create a flavor explosion. Plus, it’s perfect for those nights when you’re fridge is looking a little bare.
A Customizable Canvas: This recipe is all about improvisation! Toss in leftover veggies like peas or broccoli, add protein with leftover chicken or sausage, or throw in some fresh herbs for a burst of life. It’s your leftover playground!
Speed Demon in the Kitchen: Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata is a weeknight warrior. Minimal prep and cooking time means you can whip up a satisfying meal in a flash.
Hot, Cold, You’re in Control: The beauty of this frittata is its versatility. Enjoy it piping hot out of the pan, savor it at room temperature, or even chill it for a refreshing summer lunch.
Packable Perfection: Leftover slices transform into portable powerhouses. Pack them for a quick and delicious lunch or a satisfying mid-day snack.
Waste Not, Want Not: By giving leftover pasta a starring role, this recipe fights food waste. It’s a win for your wallet and the environment!
Budget-Friendly Feast: With its focus on using what you already have and minimal additional ingredients, Gennaro’s Pasta Frittata is kind to your wallet.

So next time you’re staring down a container of leftover pasta, don’t despair! Reach for this recipe and create a leftover masterpiece that’s delicious, versatile, and easy on the budget.

Take a look at more recipes to reduce food waste here.