Lighter Spanish Tortilla Frittata

Lighter Spanish Tortilla Frittata

A lightened-up approach to the classic Spanish tortilla española, featuring steamed waxy potatoes and sweet onions folded into rich beaten eggs to yield a tender, satisfying meal.

45mEasy6 slices

Equipment

Steamer basket
Medium non-stick skillet
Mixing bowl
Large flat plate
Chef's knife
Whisk
Flexible spatula

Ingredients

6 servings

Main Ingredients

  • 6 eggs, large, room temperature
  • 500 g waxy potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 150 g yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 15 ml extra virgin olive oil
  • 5 g fine sea salt

Nutrition (per serving)

152
Calories
9g
Protein
13g
Carbs
7g
Fat
3g
Fiber
1g
Sugar
404mg
Sodium

Method

01

Peel the potatoes and slice them evenly into 3mm thick rounds. Thinly slice the onion.

02

Place the sliced potatoes and onions into a steamer basket over simmering water. Cover and steam for 12 to 15 minutes until the potatoes are completely tender and pierce easily with a fork.

15mFeel: Potatoes should yield completely to a fork with no resistance
03

While the vegetables are steaming, crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl. Add the salt and whisk vigorously until well combined and slightly frothy.

04

Transfer the hot steamed potatoes and onions directly into the beaten eggs. Gently press them down so they are submerged. Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes at room temperature.

10m
05

Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a 20cm (8-inch) non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the egg and potato mixture, spreading the potatoes into an even layer. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, running a flexible spatula around the edges to loosen them as they set.

6mLook for: Edges are opaque and pulling away slightly from the pan; bottom is golden
06

Place a large flat plate upside down over the skillet. Carefully invert the skillet to flip the frittata onto the plate. Slide the frittata back into the skillet, raw side down, and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the center reaches 74°C/165°F and feels set but slightly springy.

4mLook for: Both sides are golden brownFeel: Center feels firm yet yields slightly to gentle pressure
07

Slide the finished tortilla onto a clean serving plate. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow the interior to fully set.

10m

Chef's Notes

  • Steaming the potatoes instead of boiling them prevents the slices from becoming waterlogged, which ensures the eggs bind properly to the starches.
  • Waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, are critical because they hold their shape. Starchy baking potatoes will disintegrate into mush.
  • Do not skip the 10-minute resting step. The residual heat from the potatoes gently tempers the eggs, creating a custard-like consistency that defines a proper tortilla.
  • For the cleanest flip, commit to a quick, confident motion. Hesitation is the enemy when inverting a skillet over a plate.

Storage

Refrigerator: 4 daysStore wrapped tightly or in an airtight container.

Reheating: Enjoy at room temperature, or warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 15-second intervals.

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