Simplest Omelet

Omelets are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day. With these simple instructions and a variety of filling options, you can easily customize your omelet to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a classic omelet with cheese and vegetables or want to experiment with different flavors, omelets are a delicious and satisfying meal option.

Whether you’re looking for a simple and satisfying meal or want to impress your guests with a flavor-packed omelet, this recipe provides a great starting point for your culinary creativity. With a few key ingredients and some delicious fillings, you can create a delightful omelet that will leave everyone satisfied and eager for more.

MAKES: 2 servings

TIME: 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 or 5 eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk or cream (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon butter or extra virgin olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a bowl, beat the eggs with the milk (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter or oil and let it melt or heat up.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds.
4. Use a rubber spatula to push the edges of the eggs towards the center, allowing the uncooked eggs to reach the perimeter.
5. Continue cooking until the omelet is mostly cooked but still slightly runny in the center, approximately 3 minutes.
6. Fold the omelet into thirds using a large spatula or fold it in half and slide it from the pan.
7. Rub the top of the omelet with the remaining teaspoon of butter or oil and serve.

VARIATIONS:

• Spanish Omelet: Before cooking the omelet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a saucepan. Add chopped scallion or onion and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in chopped tomato and cook for about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Add the tomato mixture to the eggs, about a minute before finishing the omelet.
• Denver Omelet: Before cooking the omelet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan. Add chopped onion and red bell pepper and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in chopped cooked ham and cook for about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Add the ham mixture to the eggs, about a minute before finishing the omelet.

IDEAS FOR FILLING OMELETS:

• Grated cheese (about 2 tablespoons per egg)
• Sautéed mushrooms, onion, spinach, or leftover cooked vegetables (cut into small dice)
• Peeled, seeded, and diced ripe tomato
• Cottage cheese or goat cheese (mixed with fresh chopped herbs)
• Chopped ham, crisp-cooked bacon, sausage meat, or other chopped meat
• Marmalade, jam, or jelly
• Fresh herbs (stronger ones like oregano, tarragon, or thyme mixed with milder ones like parsley, chive, chervil, basil, or mint)
• Fruit (peeled and grated apples or berries, briefly cooked with butter, sugar, and cinnamon)
• Cream cheese and smoked salmon (cut into bits)
• Cooked seafood (shrimp, scallops, lobster, or crabmeat, shredded or minced)
• Minced red bell pepper, mild chiles, or roasted red pepper
• Gently sautéed sliced or chopped onion
• Mashed potatoes or mashed vegetables (sweet potatoes, celery root, or parsnips)