Savory Tomato and Herb Strata
This savory strata combines layers of crusty country bread, rich egg custard, and vibrant fresh tomatoes. Infused with fragrant herbs like thyme, sage, and parsley, it creates a luscious breakfast or brunch dish that’s perfect for gatherings. Topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan, this baked masterpiece is both comforting and visually appealing.
ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tsp chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 1 tsp minced fresh sage
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 loaf country-style bread, cut into ½-inch thick slices
- 2 cups grated whole-milk mozzarella cheese
- 3 medium multicolored tomatoes, diced
steps
- 1.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- 2.
Butter a 13-by-9-inch glass baking dish.
- 3.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, Parmesan, thyme, parsley, sage, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- 4.
Layer half of the sliced bread into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- 5.
Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the diced tomatoes.
- 6.
Repeat the layering with the remaining bread, egg mixture, mozzarella, and tomatoes.
- 7.
Allow the strata to stand for 30 minutes at room temperature, gently pressing the ingredients to ensure the bread soaks up the custard.
- 8.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, until golden brown and puffed.
- 9.
Halfway through baking, press down on the top layer of bread to keep it submerged in the mixture.
- 10.
Once done, let the strata rest for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares.
- 11.
Serve warm and enjoy the aromatic blend of flavors!
