Spinach and Leftover Mashed Potato Omelette: A Deliciously Frugal Recipe
Are you tired of throwing away leftover mashed potatoes? Do you crave a quick, healthy, and flavorful breakfast or brunch option? Look no further! This spinach and leftover mashed potato omelette is the perfect solution. It’s a fantastic way to repurpose those creamy potatoes into a satisfying and nutritious meal. Packed with vibrant spinach, fluffy eggs, and the comforting texture of mashed potatoes, this omelette is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding your favorite cheeses, herbs, spices, or even cooked meats. It’s a great way to experiment with different flavors and create a truly unique omelette experience. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that helps you reduce food waste.
Let’s dive into the details of this simple yet satisfying recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Delicious and Flavorful:** The combination of spinach, mashed potatoes, and eggs creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
* **Quick and Easy:** This omelette can be whipped up in just minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or a quick lunch.
* **Budget-Friendly:** It’s a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes and reduce food waste.
* **Nutritious:** Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, this omelette is a healthy and satisfying meal.
* **Versatile:** Easily customizable with your favorite cheeses, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Eggs:** The foundation of any great omelette. Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best results. 2-3 large eggs per omelette is usually the perfect amount.
* **Leftover Mashed Potatoes:** The star of the show! Cold mashed potatoes work best for this recipe, allowing them to hold their shape better in the omelette. About 1/2 to 3/4 cup per omelette is ideal. Ensure that the mashed potatoes are not overly watery; if they are, you might need to drain some excess liquid.
* **Fresh Spinach:** Provides a boost of vitamins and adds a vibrant green color. You can use baby spinach or regular spinach; just make sure to wash it thoroughly. Around 1-2 cups of fresh spinach per omelette.
* **Butter or Oil:** For cooking the omelette and preventing it from sticking to the pan. Olive oil or unsalted butter are both great options. About 1 tablespoon is generally sufficient.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Season generously to bring out the flavors of the ingredients. Freshly ground black pepper is particularly nice.
* **Optional Add-ins:** Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, feta, goat cheese), herbs (chives, parsley, dill), spices (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika), cooked bacon or ham, chopped tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Non-Stick Skillet:** An 8-inch or 10-inch non-stick skillet is ideal for making omelettes. The non-stick surface prevents the omelette from sticking and makes it easier to flip.
* **Whisk:** For whisking the eggs until light and fluffy.
* **Spatula:** For flipping and folding the omelette.
* **Bowl:** For whisking the eggs and preparing the filling.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurately measuring the ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect spinach and leftover mashed potato omelette:
**Step 1: Prepare the Spinach**
* Wash the spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit.
* If using regular spinach, chop it roughly into smaller pieces. Baby spinach can be used whole.
**Step 2: Whisk the Eggs**
* In a bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them vigorously until they are light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the eggs, resulting in a fluffier omelette.
* Season the eggs with salt and pepper to taste.
* If desired, add a splash of milk or cream to the eggs for extra richness and creaminess (about 1-2 tablespoons per 2 eggs). However, this is optional.
**Step 3: Cook the Spinach**
* Heat a tablespoon of butter or oil in the non-stick skillet over medium heat.
* Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts and softens, usually about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
* Remove the spinach from the skillet and set aside.
**Step 4: Cook the Omelette**
* Add another teaspoon of butter or oil to the skillet and heat over medium heat.
* Pour the whisked eggs into the skillet, tilting the pan to ensure the eggs cover the entire surface.
* Let the eggs cook undisturbed for a minute or two, until the edges begin to set.
* Use a spatula to gently lift the edges of the omelette and tilt the pan to allow the uncooked egg to flow underneath. This helps the omelette cook evenly.
**Step 5: Add the Filling**
* Once the omelette is mostly set but still slightly wet on top, add the leftover mashed potatoes to one half of the omelette.
* Sprinkle the cooked spinach over the mashed potatoes.
* If using any optional add-ins like cheese, herbs, or cooked bacon, add them now on top of the mashed potatoes and spinach.
**Step 6: Fold the Omelette**
* Using a spatula, carefully fold the empty half of the omelette over the filling.
* Press down gently on the folded omelette to seal it.
**Step 7: Finish Cooking**
* Cook the omelette for another minute or two, until the filling is heated through and the cheese (if using) is melted and gooey.
* If you prefer a more well-done omelette, you can cook it for a slightly longer time. Be careful not to overcook it, or it will become dry.
**Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!**
* Carefully slide the omelette onto a plate.
* Garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of paprika, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
* **Don’t Overcook the Omelette:** Overcooked omelettes are dry and rubbery. Cook the omelette until it’s just set but still slightly moist. The carryover cooking will finish it off.
* **Use a Non-Stick Skillet:** This is crucial for preventing the omelette from sticking and making it easier to flip.
* **Preheat the Skillet:** Make sure the skillet is properly heated before adding the eggs. This will help the omelette cook evenly and prevent it from sticking.
* **Don’t Overfill the Omelette:** Overfilling the omelette will make it difficult to fold and may cause it to break.
* **Add Cheese:** Cheese adds a delicious flavor and creamy texture to the omelette. Try cheddar, mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese.
* **Add Herbs:** Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill add a bright and flavorful touch.
* **Add Spices:** Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika can add a warm and savory flavor.
* **Add Cooked Meats:** Cooked bacon, ham, or sausage can add protein and flavor to the omelette.
* **Add Vegetables:** Chopped tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers can add nutrients and texture to the omelette.
* **Make it Spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Use Different Greens:** Try using kale, arugula, or chard instead of spinach.
* **Add Sour Cream or Yogurt:** A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt on top adds a tangy and creamy element.
* **Experiment with Different Mashed Potato Flavors:** Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, or even sweet potato mashed potatoes will all work wonderfully in this recipe.
* **Make it Vegan:** Substitute the eggs with a plant-based egg alternative and use a plant-based butter or oil.
Serving Suggestions
This spinach and leftover mashed potato omelette is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
* **Toast:** Serve with a side of buttered toast or whole-wheat toast for a complete and satisfying breakfast.
* **Fruit Salad:** Pair with a refreshing fruit salad for a light and healthy meal.
* **Side Salad:** Serve with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
* **Avocado:** Add sliced avocado for a creamy and healthy fat boost.
* **Salsa:** Top with your favorite salsa for a flavorful and zesty kick.
* **Hot Sauce:** Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerating:** Leftover omelette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the omelette in the microwave, in a skillet over low heat, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Be careful not to overheat it, or it will become dry.
* **Freezing:** Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the eggs and potatoes can become watery and unpleasant upon thawing.
Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)
* Calories: 300-400
* Protein: 15-20g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g
* Fiber: 3-5g
*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.*
Conclusion
This spinach and leftover mashed potato omelette is a delicious, easy, and budget-friendly way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner. With its versatility and customizable options, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, the next time you have leftover mashed potatoes, don’t throw them away – turn them into this amazing omelette! Enjoy!
This omelette is truly a testament to how creative one can get with leftovers. It is an eco-friendly option to help reduce food wastage, as it provides you with a delicious meal and helps avoid food ending up in the bin. The nutritional value it provides should also be noted, as it contains a combination of protein from the eggs, Vitamins, Minerals and Fibre from the spinach. Furthermore, depending on your mashed potato recipe, it is a carbohydrate loaded meal to power your day!
So, there you have it! A quick, delicious, and resourceful recipe that is friendly to your wallet and your tastebuds. Do try out this recipe and put your own twist to it. Share it with your friends and family and spread the deliciousness!