Introducing the delectable Grand Central Strata, a mouthwatering breakfast delight that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more! 🍳 This savory strata combines a medley of fresh vegetables, gooey cheeses, and fluffy eggs, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply seeking a hearty morning meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Grand Central Strata
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 6-7 slices of bread
- 2 zucchinis
- 4-5 cups of spinach
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 5 eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half cream
Instructions:
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Prepare the Vegetables:
- If using broccoli, cut it into thin slices, ensuring to peel any woody stems.
- Blanch the broccoli slices in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
- For spinach or chard, either use frozen chopped spinach or chop fresh greens and blanch them for about 1 minute in boiling water. Drain thoroughly in a colander.
- Slice or dice the zucchinis and sauté them with diced onions until tender. Set aside.
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Assemble the Strata:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onions, mushrooms, and zucchinis with the prepared vegetables of your choice. Mix in the fresh basil.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half cream, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the crusts from the bread slices and butter the bottom and sides of an 8 ½” x 11″ ovenproof pan. Arrange enough bread slices to cover the bottom of the pan snugly.
- Spread the vegetable mixture evenly over the bread slices and top with grated mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and cheese.
- Add the remaining bread slices on top, pressing them slightly into the egg mixture.
- Dot the top with butter, cover the pan, and refrigerate overnight or for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
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Bake the Strata:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the strata uncovered for 50-60 minutes, or until the custard is set and the dish is golden brown on top.
- Once baked, allow the strata to cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 403.9
- Fat Content: 31.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 18.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 216.4mg
- Sodium Content: 434.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 16.5g
- Fiber Content: 1.3g
- Sugar Content: 1.7g
- Protein Content: 15.5g
Indulge in this delightful Grand Central Strata for a breakfast experience that’s bursting with flavor and wholesome goodness. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, this dish is a true winner for any occasion! 🍽️
