Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean! This Mediterranean Egg and Vegetable Strata is not just a meal—it's a flavor-packed experience that combines the rustic charm of traditional Mediterranean cuisine with the comfort of a hearty breakfast casserole. Imagine layers of crusty bread, vibrant vegetables, and creamy eggs melting together in a dish that's guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Whether you're looking for a show-stopping brunch centerpiece or a satisfying weeknight dinner, this strata promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bread, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your strata cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 large eggs. Whisk them together until they are well beaten and frothy.
- Add 2 cups of milk to the eggs, and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to incorporate the seasonings.
- In a separate bowl, combine the 1 cup of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of diced bell peppers, and 1 cup of chopped spinach. Toss them together to mix the vegetables evenly.
- Fold the vegetable mixture into the egg and milk mixture, ensuring that the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout.
- Add the 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese to the mixture, gently folding it in to maintain the integrity of the cheese.
- In a large baking dish, arrange the 8 slices of cubed bread evenly across the bottom. This will serve as the base for your strata.
- Pour the egg and vegetable mixture over the cubed bread, ensuring that all the bread is soaked in the egg mixture. Use a spatula to gently press the bread down if necessary.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, allowing it to rest for about 15 minutes. This helps the bread absorb the egg mixture.
- After resting, remove the foil and place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the strata is puffed up and golden brown on top.
- Once cooked, remove the strata from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to serve.
- Cut the strata into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your Mediterranean Egg and Vegetable Strata!
Tips
- Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the egg mixture more effectively without becoming too soggy.
- Customize your vegetables: Feel free to swap or add vegetables like zucchini, artichokes, or olives to make the strata uniquely yours.
- Let it rest before baking: The 15-minute resting period allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, creating a more cohesive and flavorful dish.
- Check for doneness: The strata should be puffed and golden brown on top, with a slight wobble in the center when it's perfectly cooked.
- Prepare ahead: You can assemble the strata the night before and refrigerate, then bake in the morning for an easy breakfast.
- Serve immediately: The strata is at its best when served warm, straight from the oven, when it's still puffy and golden.
- Add extra flavor: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving can elevate the dish's freshness and aroma.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 220mg
