Description
This Tomato Spinach Strata is a flavorful, savory breakfast casserole combining sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, tangy feta, and juicy cherry tomatoes baked with bread cubes and a rich egg mixture. Perfect for a cozy brunch or make-ahead meal, it offers a delightful balance of creamy textures and fresh vegetable flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 10 ounces fresh spinach
- ½ lb cherry tomatoes, cut in half
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 2 cups crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Base
- 6 cups cubed bread (can be stale)
Instructions
- Sauté Ingredients: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and warm the olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and begin to brown. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the spinach and sauté until mostly wilted, stirring occasionally to combine flavors evenly.
- Whisk Egg Mixture: While the onions cook, in a medium bowl whisk together the eggs, sea salt, plain yogurt, crumbled feta, and grated parmesan until fully blended to create a creamy custard base for the strata.
- Assemble Strata: Spread the cubed bread evenly in an 8×11 inch casserole dish. Layer the halved cherry tomatoes and the sautéed spinach mixture over the bread. Pour the prepared egg and cheese mixture uniformly over the top, then gently toss or press the layers to ensure good coverage and soaking.
- Bake: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the strata is lightly golden. Note that some moisture around the edges is normal due to the tomatoes’ juiciness. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 10 minutes to let excess moisture absorb and the dish to firm up before serving.
Notes
- Using slightly stale bread helps absorb the egg mixture better, improving texture.
- Allowing the strata to rest after baking prevents sogginess and enhances flavor melding.
- For a milder flavor, substitute some or all of the feta with mozzarella or ricotta cheese.
- This dish can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
- Feel free to add herbs like thyme or oregano for additional flavor depth.
- Use gluten-free bread if you require a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
