ZUCCHINI AND GRUYERE FRITTATA SQUARES

Zucchini and Gruyere Frittata Squares image

Provided by Ina Garten

Time 1h10m

Yield 30 appetizers

Number Of Ingredients 11

Good olive oil
6 ounces pancetta, 1/2-inch-diced
4 cups medium-diced leeks, white and light green parts (4 leeks), washed and spun dry
8 to 10 ounces small zucchini, thinly sliced in rounds
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, minced
12 extra-large eggs
3/4 cup half-and-half
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
10 ounces grated Gruyere cheese, divided
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Julienned fresh basil, for garnish

Steps:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 12-by-18-by-1-inch sheet pan with olive oil.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large (12-inch) saute pan over medium heat. Add the pancetta and saute for 5 minutes, until it begins to brown. Add the leeks and saute for 5 minutes, until tender. Add the zucchini and thyme and saute for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Stir in two-thirds of the Gruyere and the basil.
Pour the zucchini mixture in an even, well distributed layer into the prepared sheet pan. Pour the egg mixture over the top and sprinkle with the remaining Gruyere. Shake the pan to evenly distribute the egg mixture. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until puffed and just set in the center. Allow to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes. Cut the frittata into 30 equal size squares, sprinkle with salt, garnish with the julienned basil and serve hot, warm or at room temperature.