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–+ servings
Italian Spinach and Tomato Strata – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Italian Spinach and Tomato Strata

This Italian-inspired strata is the ultimate comfort food, layering crusty bread, vibrant spinach, sun-kissed tomatoes, and a rich, cheesy custard. Perfect for a lazy weekend brunch or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 328 serving
Calories: 328
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces (225 g / 7.9 oz) crusty country Italian bread, cut into 1-inch or 2.5 cm cubes, about 8 cups (1920 ml)
  • 1 14.5-ounce / 411 g (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano, drained
  • 1 10-ounce / 280 g (9.9 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed very dry
  • 1 cup (113 g / 4 oz) shredded Italian cheese blend
  • 1/2 cup (75 g / 2.65 oz) chopped onion
  • 1/3 cup (55 g / 1.94 oz) pitted kalamata olives, quartered
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 cups (480 ml) half-and-half, light cream, or milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon (20 ml / 0.7 fl oz) crushed red pepper
  • Use day-old, stale bread for the best texture. A sturdy, crusty loaf like ciabatta or sourdough works best as it will absorb the custard without becoming mushy.
  • For the best texture, ensure your thawed spinach is squeezed completely dry. Place it in a clean kitchen towel and wring out as much liquid as possible to prevent a soggy strata.
  • This is the perfect make-ahead dish. Assemble the entire strata, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking, adding 5-10 minutes to the bake time if needed.

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F / 165°C. Lightly grease a 2-quart or 8x8-inch square baking dish.
  2. In an extra-large bowl, combine the bread cubes, drained tomatoes, thawed spinach, Italian cheese blend, chopped onion, kalamata olives, and minced garlic.
  3. Toss gently until everything is well mixed, then transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish.
  4. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, and crushed red pepper until smooth.
  5. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the bread in the baking dish. Use the back of a spoon to gently press down on the bread, ensuring it soaks up the liquid.
  6. Don't worry if the dish looks very full!
  7. Bake uncovered for 60 to 65 minutes. The strata is ready when it's beautifully puffed, golden brown, and a thermometer inserted into the center registers 170°F / 77°C.
  8. Let the strata stand for 15 minutes before slicing and serving to allow it to set properly.

Nutrition

Calories: 328kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 14gFat: 16g

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