ZUCCHINI FRITTATA WITH BLOSSOMS

Zucchini Frittata with Blossoms image

Yield Serves 6

Number Of Ingredients 8

12 large eggs
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan
2 medium zucchini, rinsed and cut into 2-inch-long julienne strips (about 3 cups)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped fine
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried, crumbled
6 to 8 zucchini blossoms, pistils removed if desired

Steps:

In a bowl whisk together the eggs, add 1/2 cup of the Parmesan and salt and pepper to taste, and whisk the mixture until it is combined well. In a 12-inch non-stick skillet sauté the zucchini in 2 tablespoons of the oil over moderately high heat, stirring until it is softened and transfer it with a slotted spoon to a small bowl. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the skillet and in it cook the onion and the bell pepper with salt and pepper to taste over moderate heat, stirring, until the vegetables are softened. Add the garlic and the thyme and cook the mixture, stirring, for 1 minute. Stir in the zucchini, pour in the egg mixture, and arrange the zucchini blossoms decoratively on the surface.
Preheat the broiler. Cook the frittata over moderate heat, without stirring, for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edge is set but the center is still soft, and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan over the top. (If the skillet handle is plastic, wrap it in a double thickness of foil.) Broil the frittata under the broiler about 4 inches from the heat for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Let the frittata cool in the skillet for 5 minutes, run a thin knife around the edge, and slide the frittata onto a serving plate. Cut the frittata into wedges and serve it warm or at room temperature.