Mediterranean Cheese Strata Recipe
Overview:
Indulge in the delightful flavors of the Mediterranean with this savory and aromatic Cheese Strata recipe! Bursting with the richness of dried tomatoes, the tanginess of black olives, and the freshness of assorted herbs, this dish is a true culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or seeking a hearty dinner option, this Mediterranean-inspired delight will surely impress your taste buds.
Time Breakdown:
Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
---|---|---|
15 minutes | 20 minutes | 35 minutes |
Ingredients:
- 100g dried tomatoes
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 5 eggs
- 1 bunch green onions
- 2/3 cup black olives
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp fresh basil
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3 slices of bread (cubed)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 402.7
- Fat: 21.1g
- Saturated Fat: 9.8g
- Cholesterol: 302.1mg
- Sodium: 1145.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 32.2g
- Fiber: 4.9g
- Sugar: 14.6g
- Protein: 24g
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180Β°C (350Β°F).
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Prepare Pie Plate: Lightly butter a 24cm pie plate, ensuring an even coating to prevent sticking.
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Prepare Dried Tomatoes: Place the dried tomatoes on a paper towel and gently pat them to remove excess oil. Once dry, cut them in half and set aside.
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Prepare Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the low-fat milk, eggs, and garlic powder until well combined.
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Add Ingredients: To the custard mixture, add the chopped green onions, black olives, fresh parsley, basil, thyme, oregano, and the halved dried tomatoes. Mix everything together until evenly distributed.
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Incorporate Bread: Add the cubed slices of bread to the mixture, stirring until all the bread cubes are moistened and well coated with the custard mixture.
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Transfer to Pie Dish: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pie dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Allow Absorption: Let the mixture stand for about 5 minutes to allow the bread to absorb most of the custard. Press down gently several times to ensure the bread cubes are submerged.
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Bake: Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for approximately 20 minutes, or until the strata turns light golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Serve: Once baked, remove the strata from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Then, cut it into wedges and serve warm with a fresh salad of mesclun mix for a delightful Mediterranean feast!
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this savory Mediterranean Cheese Strata with a side of crisp salad greens dressed in a light vinaigrette for a well-balanced meal.
- Enjoy a slice of this delectable dish alongside a refreshing glass of chilled white wine for the perfect culinary experience.
- Customize your strata by adding other Mediterranean ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, or artichoke hearts for an extra burst of flavor!
Notes:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavors of this dish to your preference.
- This versatile recipe can be served for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, making it a convenient option for any occasion!