Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 slices of bread, cubed
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
3. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the baking dish.
4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the bread.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the tomatoes.
6. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, tomatoes, and cheese in the baking dish.
8. Use a fork to press down on the bread to make sure it is fully coated with the egg mixture.
9. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil on top of the mixture.
10. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
12. Let the strata cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 50-55 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 287
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 19g
- Sodium: 676mg
- Sugar: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of bread in this recipe, such as sourdough or whole wheat.
- Instead of cherry tomatoes, you can use diced Roma tomatoes.
- You can substitute the mozzarella cheese with any other type of cheese, such as cheddar or feta.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the meat and add more vegetables.
Variations:
- Add cooked sausage or bacon for a meatier version.
- Add sautéed onions and bell peppers for more flavor.
- Use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or blue cheese.
Tips and Tricks:
- You can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Just cover it with foil and bake it the next day.
- If the bread is too dry, you can lightly toast it before cubing it.
- Make sure to press down on the bread to ensure it is fully coated with the egg mixture.
Storage Instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, place the strata in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the strata on a platter with fresh basil leaves on top.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with additional chopped fresh basil.
Pairings:
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasted asparagus with lemon and garlic
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the strata is too dry, add more milk to the egg mixture.
- If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil and continue baking.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the strata until the center is set and the internal temperature reaches 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food History:
- Strata is a popular breakfast casserole that originated in the United States.
Flavor Profiles:
- This dish has a savory and slightly tangy flavor from the tomatoes and cheese, with a hint of freshness from the basil.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this dish for breakfast or brunch with a side of fruit or yogurt.
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