Broccolini, Mushroom, and Provolone Strata
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped shallots
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 cups sliced crimini or button mushrooms
- 4 cups (1-inch cubes) dry crusty whole grain or sourdough bread
- 2 cups (1-inch pieces) broccolini florets
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1-1/2 cups coarsely grated provolone
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 4 eggs
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
Instructions:
This recipe is one of my own versions of this comforting dish made with whole grain bread and fresh broccolini, a thin long-stemmed, mild-flavored, and tender broccoli, fresh herbs, and a smoky provolone cheese.
- In a large skillet, heat the oil and sauté the shallots and garlic for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the mushrooms and continue cooking until they begin to brown. Remove the mushrooms from the heat and set aside. Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Add the mushrooms, broccolini, herbs, and cheeses and toss to combine.
- In a medium-size mixing bowl, briskly whisk the eggs until light.
- Add the milk, mustard, salt, and pepper and blend well. Evenly distribute the bread, vegetable, and cheese mixture in a wellgreased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Slowly pour the egg mixture over top and wiggle the custard into the rest of the ingredients until evenly saturated. Cover and let sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard before being baked.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Bake the strata, uncovered, for 40 to 50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Test for doneness by inserting a sharp knife in the center; if it comes out clean, it is done. If the knife still has egg clinging to the blade, return to the oven and continue baking until it comes out clean and the center is fully set. When done, remove the Strata from the oven and let sit for several minutes before cutting and serving.