Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Greece with "strapatsada," a simple yet mouthwatering dish that champions the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean. Known for its comfort food essence, strapatsada is a quick-to-prepare, scrambled delight primarily consisting of fresh tomatoes, eggs, and a sprinkle of feta cheese, often brightened with herbs like oregano or basil.
It's the epitome of Greek peasant cuisine, transforming basic ingredients found in nearly every household into a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you're a beginner in cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish adds a splash of Greek sunshine to your table, any time of the day.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes strapatsada a go-to recipe is its marvelous simplicity paired with its robust flavor profile. The dish, relying on the natural sweetness of tomatoes softened to perfection, creates a saucy base that, when married with the rich, creamy texture of scrambled eggs, produces a meal greater than the sum of its parts. It's this unpretentious combination that stands out, proving that you don’t need a pantry full of exotic ingredients to make something utterly delicious. The feta cheese, a Greek staple, introduces a tangy kick and a depth of flavor that elevates this everyday dish to something special.
Another reason to embrace this recipe lies in its versatility and the ease with which it can be adapted to suit all tastes and occasions. From a hearty breakfast to a light lunch or a relaxed dinner, strapatsada is there to answer your cravings with minimal effort and preparation time. It’s not only a perfect last-minute meal solution, but it's also incredibly forgiving; whether you prefer your eggs scrambled hard or soft, or you choose to enrich the dish with additional vegetables or spices, strapatsada can handle all the customizations. The ability to cater to various dietary preferences while maintaining its core identity is why strapatsada has earned its place in the heart of Greek cuisine.
Ingredients
Eggs - The core ingredient of Strapatsada, eggs provide protein and a base for the dish. If allergies are a concern, tofu can be scrambled as a vegan substitute.
Tomatoes - Fresh, ripe tomatoes offer a vibrant taste and color. Canned tomatoes can be used if fresh ones aren't available, but the flavor might slightly differ.
Olive Oil - Used for sautéing, it adds a distinct Mediterranean flavor. Substitute with other cooking oils if needed, but it might change the dish's authentic taste.
Feta Cheese - Gives a tangy, salty kick. If unavailable, try goat cheese or any crumbly cheese for a similar texture and flavor boost.
Salt and Pepper - Enhances flavors. While substitutes like sea salt, kosher salt, or white pepper can be used, it's best to adjust according to taste preference.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best flavor and texture.
- Cook the tomatoes thoroughly to create a rich and deep sauce base.
- Continuously stir the eggs while cooking to maintain a soft, scrambled texture.
- Crumble the feta cheese finely to ensure it melts slightly and integrates into the dish.
- Adjust the seasoning gradually, tasting as you go, to avoid over-salting.
How to Serve
Strapatsada, a traditional Greek dish, is celebrated for its simplicity and robust flavors, often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a quick lunch. Its versatility makes it suitable for various meal settings, from casual family breakfasts to part of a larger brunch spread.
- With Bread: Serve it with a side of crusty bread or toast to soak up the delicious tomato juices.
- As a Sandwich: Use it as a rich, flavorful filling for a breakfast sandwich or wrap.
- With Extras: Pair it with olives, capers, or extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a more substantial meal.
Similar Recipes
Strapatsada
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano optional for added flavor
- 1 clove garlic minced (optional for extra zest)
- Fresh parsley or basil chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic (if using) and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes to the skillet, and cook until they're soft and have released their juices. Stir in the oregano if desired.
- Crack the eggs directly into the tomato mixture and reduce the heat to low. Continuously stir and scramble the eggs in the skillet with the tomatoes, cooking until the eggs are softly set.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the eggs and tomatoes. Stir gently until the cheese is partially melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot directly from the skillet or transfer to a serving plate.
Nutrition
Notes
• Cook the tomatoes thoroughly to create a rich and deep sauce base.
• Continuously stir the eggs while cooking to maintain a soft, scrambled texture.
• Crumble the feta cheese finely to ensure it melts slightly and integrates into the dish.
• Adjust the seasoning gradually, tasting as you go, to avoid over-salting.