Indulge in the perfect harmony of earthy mushrooms, vibrant asparagus, and the comforting richness of eggs and bread with our Asparagus Mushroom Strata recipe. This delightful dish is as versatile as it is delicious, suitable for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying brunch, or a wholesome dinner that the whole family will love. Packed with essential nutrients and boasting a sumptuous flavor profile, this strata will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Let’s dive into the preparation and savor the delightful layers of taste and texture that make this dish so special.
Ingredients Of Asparagus Mushroom Strata
To create this mouth-watering Asparagus Mushroom Strata, you will need the following main ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh asparagus
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 8 slices of bread, preferably day-old
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for added richness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for sautéing
Nutritional Information Of Asparagus Mushroom Strata
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Vitamin D: 10%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 15%
- Potassium: 10%
The Asparagus Mushroom Strata stands out not just for its delectable taste but also for being a fantastic source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals to start your day off right or to conclude it on a nourishing note.
Preparation Method Of Asparagus Mushroom Strata
Total Time: 65 minutes
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Baking: 45 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Work
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks and serving is a breeze.
Step 2: Vegetable Preparation
Wash and trim the woody ends off the asparagus, chopping them into 1-inch pieces for easy eating. Clean your mushrooms gently and slice them into uniform pieces for balanced cooking.
Step 3: Sauté
Heat a touch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped asparagus and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until they are tender yet vibrant, about 5-7 minutes. Season this mix with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, then take off the heat.
Step 4: Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Season this mixture with salt and pepper, and feel free to stir in any other herbs or spices that suit your palate.
Step 5: Layering
Arrange half of the bread slices in the bottom of your prepared dish. Spoon over half of the sautéed vegetables, spreading them out evenly. Pour half of the egg mixture on top, ensuring the bread soaks up the liquid. Repeat these layers with the remaining bread, vegetables, and egg mixture. For an extra touch of decadence, sprinkle shredded cheese between the layers and on top.
Step 6: Baking
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the strata is set in the middle. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Options: While optional, adding cheese can elevate the dish’s richness. Consider using Gruyère, cheddar, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Bread Choices: Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the egg mixture better. Sourdough, whole wheat, or even brioche can add unique textures and flavors.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the strata by adding your favorite herbs and spices. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives can add a lovely aromatic touch.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes can be excellent additions to the strata.
- Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be assembled the night before and baked the next morning, making it perfect for entertaining or busy mornings.
Conclusion
The Asparagus Mushroom Strata is a versatile, nutrient-packed dish perfect for any time of day. Its delightful layers combine the earthy flavors of mushrooms, the fresh snap of asparagus, and the comforting texture of bread and eggs, creating a harmonious balance that is sure to please any palate. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a hearty breakfast, or seeking a satisfying dinner option, this strata is your go-to recipe.
By following the steps outlined above, you can create a dish that not only tastes fantastic but also offers numerous health benefits. The high protein content, dietary fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals make this strata an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a wholesome and delicious meal.
So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the delightful flavors of the Asparagus Mushroom Strata. Happy cooking!
External Resources for Further Information
To enhance your culinary skills and find more inspiration, consider exploring the following external resources:
Explore a wide variety of asparagus recipes to discover new and delicious ways to include this nutrient-rich vegetable in your meals.
Learn about the numerous health benefits that mushrooms offer, including their rich nutritional profile and potential medicinal properties.
Master the art of cooking eggs in different styles with tips and techniques from the experts at Food Network.
Get detailed nutritional information about various types of bread to make informed choices for your strata and other dishes.
Discover a collection of healthy brunch recipes to expand your repertoire and enjoy wholesome meals at any time of the day.