ASPARAGUS AND PROSCIUTTO STRATA

ASPARAGUS AND PROSCIUTTO STRATA image

Categories Side

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 pound asparagus, tough stem ends snapped off, cut into 2-inch lengths
1 loaf (3/4 pound) crusty, artisan-style bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 OZ thinly sliced prosciutto, cut into 1/2-inch strips
1 1/4 cup shredded parmesan or asiago cheese (about 5 OZ)
1/2 cup chopped chives
6 large eggs
3 1/2 cups milk
1 TBSPN grated lemon peel
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350. In a medium pan over high heat, bring about 2 qts water to boil. Add asparagus and cook till bright green and barely tender, about 2 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.2. Spread half the bread cubes in a lightly oiled 9 x 13 inch baking pan. Top with half the prosciutto, cooked asparagus, cheese and chives. Layer remaining bread cubes on top, followed by remaining prosciutto, asparagus, cheese and chives. 3. In abowl, whisk eggs, milk, lemon peel, salt and pepper to blend. Pour evenly over layered ingredients. Cover and chill at least 1 hour. 4. Bake until center of strata is set and top is lightly browned, 40-50 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.