Japanese Style Frittata with Shiso and Asparagus

Name: Japanese Style Frittata with Shiso and Asparagus
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 6 large eggs; 1 cup of asparagus, chopped; 2 tbs of olive oil; 1/4 cup of milk; 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup of fresh shiso leaves, chopped; 1 small onion, finely diced; Salt and pepper, to taste

04/29/2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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This Japanese Style Spring Frittata with Shiso and Asparagus is a fresh, seasonal dish that brings the essence of Japanese cuisine into a Western classic. In Japan, frittatas or egg-based dishes are often served for breakfast or lunch. However, the addition of shiso—a herb used frequently in Japanese cooking—gives this frittata a unique twist. Paired with fresh asparagus, this dish celebrates the flavors of spring and is the perfect balance of savory and fragrant. The frittata is great for brunch or a light dinner, and it can be easily customized with other seasonal vegetables!

Hey Magafriends, I have a recipe to share with you today that takes me straight back to one of my favorite memories in Japan. It’s a Japanese Style Spring Frittata with Shiso and Asparagus, a dish I first tasted while visiting a little family-owned cafe in Kyoto. There was something magical about how the delicate flavors of shiso—a fragrant, herbaceous leaf—and asparagus combined in a warm, fluffy frittata. It was springtime, and the air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers and fresh herbs. The best part? It’s so simple to make at home! Every time I prepare this dish, I feel like I’m bringing a little piece of Japan back into my kitchen.

The vibrant green asparagus, the slight spice of shiso, and the eggs coming together to create a soft, savory frittata—this dish truly embodies the light, fresh flavors of spring. You’ve got to try it yourself!

Developed by Magali, Cooking with Magali.

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Easy

Japanese Style Frittata with Shiso and Asparagus

Author: Magali Cooking Method: Baking Cuisine: Asian Courses: Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch Recipe Keys: Quick Meals

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 25 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 45 mins

Cooking Temp: 350 C Servings: 4 Calories: 250

Best Season: Spring

Description

This Japanese Style Spring Frittata with Shiso and Asparagus is a fresh, seasonal dish that brings the essence of Japanese cuisine into a Western classic. In Japan, frittatas or egg-based dishes are often served for breakfast or lunch. However, the addition of shiso—a herb used frequently in Japanese cooking—gives this frittata a unique twist. Paired with fresh asparagus, this dish celebrates the flavors of spring and is the perfect balance of savory and fragrant. The frittata is great for brunch or a light dinner, and it can be easily customized with other seasonal vegetables!

Ingredients

6 large eggs
1 cup of asparagus, chopped
2 tbs of olive oil
¹⁄₄ cup of milk
¹⁄₂ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
¹⁄₄ cup of fresh shiso leaves, chopped
1 small onion, finely diced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté the asparagus: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped asparagus and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they’re slightly tender but still crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Prepare the egg mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the onions: In the same pan, sauté the diced onion for about 2 minutes until soft.
Combine: Add the sautéed asparagus and onions into the egg mixture. Stir in the chopped shiso leaves.
Bake: Pour the mixture into a lightly greased oven-safe dish or cast-iron skillet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and lightly golden on top.
Rest and Serve: Let the frittata rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Equipment

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 250kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20g31%
Total Carbohydrate 5g2%
Dietary Fiber 2g8%
Sugars 2g
Protein 12g24%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: Japanese spring frittata, shiso, asparagus, baked frittata, healthy brunch recipe, Japanese-inspired dish, seasonal egg recipe

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File under asparagus asparagus frittata baked frittata easy Japanese recipes healthy brunch recipe healthy frittata Japanese herbs in cooking Japanese spring frittata Japanese-inspired dish seasonal cooking seasonal egg recipe shiso shiso recipe spring frittata

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is a Japanese style spring frittata with shiso and asparagus?

A Japanese style spring frittata is a baked egg dish that combines shiso leaves (a fragrant herb) and asparagus for a light, flavorful meal. Perfect for spring, it's a unique twist on the classic frittata.

Can I substitute shiso with another herb in this frittata recipe?

Yes, you can substitute shiso with basil or mint. However, shiso has a distinct flavor that is commonly used in Japanese cuisine, so it adds a special touch to the frittata.

What other vegetables can I add to a spring frittata?

You can customize your frittata by adding spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or even cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. Spring vegetables work best!

Is this Japanese style frittata recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian. If you need a dairy-free option, simply swap the Parmesan cheese for a vegan cheese alternative.

How long does a frittata last in the fridge?

Store your Japanese style frittata in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven for the best texture, or enjoy it cold!

What is the best way to reheat a frittata?

To reheat, place the frittata in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) for about 10-15 minutes to keep it fluffy. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the texture soggy.

Can I freeze a frittata?

Yes, you can freeze a spring frittata. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

What can I serve with a Japanese style frittata?

This Japanese style frittata pairs beautifully with a light green salad, sliced avocado, or even a simple miso soup for a balanced, flavorful meal.

Magali

Chef

I’m Magali — a food lover, traveler, cook, and writer. I love exploring the world, studying culinary arts, and sharing my experiences along the way.

I believe that cooking is more than just preparing dishes. For me, it’s a way to express love, creativity, and connection. Each recipe has the power to tell a story and create moments of joy and pleasure, both in the kitchen and at the table.

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Japanese Style Frittata with Shiso and Asparagus