Brunch is the perfect meal for lazy weekends, or when you want a relaxing breakfast that feels indulgent. Bagel Strata With Asparagus And Ham is a delicious and easy-to-make brunch dish that is perfect for when you have leftover bagels ( or even bread for that matter) from the week. The best part about this dish is that you can substitute other vegetables your family loves or use bacon and sausage if you prefer. Here, we will be sharing with you the recipe for this mouth-watering dish that is sure to impress your guests.
What Is The Difference Between A Quiche And A Strata Exactly?
Quiches are originally from France, and they are delectable custard tarts served in a pastry crust. However, if you’re searching for quiche in the United States, you’ll probably come across a dish that is predominantly made of eggs, baked in a round pie pan, and encased in a shell.
The Strata is a delightful dish that may become your new favorite if you enjoy casseroles or bread puddings. It is an American invention that transforms sweet bread pudding into a savory delight. The Strata is a straightforward dish that you can effortlessly prepare for any special brunch or breakfast occasion.
So, for Brunch, both work. The Strata however is a more filling and surprising dish to serve that is not so ordinarily expected at Brunch and will entice your guests!
Bagel Strata With Asparagus And Ham Ingredients:
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 3 cups of 1-inch bagel pieces (everything, onion or sesame)
- 1 1/4 Cup Fresh asparagus, chopped
- 1 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese divided
- 1 cup diced ham (or substitute bacon or sausage)
Preparing the Ingredients: A Delightful Morning Activity
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the ingredients that make this dish so special. This recipe calls for six eggs, two cups of milk, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder. Along with this, you will need three cups of one-inch bagel pieces (everything, onion or sesame), 1 1/4 cups of fresh asparagus (chopped), 1 1/4 cups of chopped fresh spinach, and 1 cup of shredded white cheddar cheese (divided).
When gathering the ingredients, take a moment to appreciate the colors, textures, and flavors that each ingredient brings to the dish. This dish is a beautiful combination of savory and fresh, creamy and crispy. Preparing the ingredients can be a delightful morning activity that sets the tone for a relaxing day.
Mixing the Ingredients: Creating a Symphony of Flavors
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to mix them together to create a symphony of flavors. Start by coating a 2-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined. Add in the pieces of bagels, ham, asparagus, spinach, and 1/2 cup of white cheddar cheese.
Mix the ingredients well, so that the flavors blend together. As you mix, notice how the ingredients come together to create a beautiful medley of colors and textures. The ham adds a savory depth to the dish, while the asparagus and spinach bring in fresh notes. The bagels give the dish a crispy texture, while the cheese makes it creamy and indulgent.
Baking the Dish: Aromas of Delight
Once the ingredients are mixed, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top the mixture with the remaining 1/2 cup of white cheddar cheese. Cover the dish and refrigerate it overnight. The next day, take the strata out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes while the oven pre-heats to 350 degrees.
Baking the dish is an exciting part of the process. As it bakes, your kitchen will be filled with aromas of delight. The crispy bagels and melted cheese will create a beautiful crust on top of the dish, while the savory and fresh ingredients cook together to create a delicious medley of flavors.
Serving the Dish: Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor
Once the dish is fully baked, insert a knife in the center. If the knife comes out clean, the dish is ready. This should take about an hour, depending on your oven. Remember to let it stand before serving.
Serving the dish is the most exciting part of the process. Place the dish on the table and watch as your guests’ eyes light up with excitement. This dish is perfect for sharing, and everyone can help themselves to as much as they want. The bagels give the dish such satisfying fullness!
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