Absolutely! 🌟 Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Vegetable Strata, a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a hearty lunch/snack. This recipe strikes a balance between wholesome veggies, gooey cheese, and the warmth of oven-baked goodness. Let’s gather our ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure together!
Vegetable Strata Recipe
Overview:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Cuisine: Breakfast
- Keywords: Lunch/Snacks, Cheese, Onions, Peppers, Vegetable, Kid Friendly, Weeknight, Brunch, Oven, < 4 Hours
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful Vegetable Strata:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 5 | Cheddar cheese |
| 1/2 | Red bell pepper |
| 1/3 | Green bell pepper |
| 1/3 | Onion |
| 1/2 | Zucchini |
| 1/2 | Mushroom |
| 1/2 | Eggs |
| 4 | Milk |
| 2 | Mustard powder |
| 1 | Salt |
| 1 | Dried basil |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Pan:
- Start by buttering an 8-inch square baking pan. This will ensure our strata doesn’t stick and gets that perfect golden crust.
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Layer the Bread:
- Cut your bread into ½-inch cubes, then distribute them evenly in the prepared baking pan. This forms the hearty base of our strata.
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Cheese, Please!
- Next, top the bread cubes with the shredded cheddar cheese. 🧀 Let’s get that gooey, melty goodness in every bite!
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Veggie Medley:
- Time to add some color and flavor! 🌈 Toss together the red and green bell peppers, onion, zucchini, and mushroom. Spread this vibrant veggie mix over the cheese layer.
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Egg Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, mustard powder, and salt until well combined. This creamy mixture will bind everything together beautifully.
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Chill Overnight:
- Cover the pan with foil or plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator overnight. This allows all the flavors to meld together for an even tastier dish.
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Preheat and Season:
- The next day, preheat your oven to 340 degrees Fahrenheit (170 degrees Celsius). 🌡️
- Sprinkle the dried basil and pepper to taste over the top of the strata. These aromatic spices will infuse the dish with wonderful flavors.
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Bake to Perfection:
- Place the prepared strata pan in a larger baking pan. Then, carefully pour enough hot water into the larger pan to come halfway up the sides of the strata dish. This water bath technique helps ensure even cooking and a creamy texture.
- Bake the strata in the middle of the oven for about 1 hour, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the edges are crispy.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once done, remove the Vegetable Strata from the oven and let it cool slightly. The aroma will be irresistible! 😋
- Slice into generous portions and serve warm. Each bite is a delightful mix of cheesy goodness, tender veggies, and savory herbs.
Tips:
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Make it Ahead: This Vegetable Strata is perfect for preparing the night before. Simply pop it in the oven the next morning for a hassle-free breakfast or brunch.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables in this strata. Broccoli, spinach, tomatoes—get creative with what’s in season or in your fridge!
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Serve with a Side: Pair this strata with a crisp salad, fresh fruit, or even some roasted potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Freezing Instructions: You can also freeze portions of the baked strata for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or lunch option. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
This Vegetable Strata recipe is not only delicious and comforting but also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies into your day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd for brunch or simply want a cozy breakfast at home, this dish is sure to please! 🌿✨ Enjoy every cheesy, veggie-filled bite!
