Salmon Strata
Salmon Strata is a savory baked casserole combining flaked salmon, spinach, and melted cheddar cheese, layered with bread and a rich egg custard—perfect for brunch or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and flake the salmon, reserving the liquid.
- Trim crusts from 5 slices of bread and cut them in half diagonally.
- Use the remaining 3 slices and trimmings to line the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheese over the bread.
- Spread the flaked salmon over the cheese.
- Spread the thawed and drained spinach over the salmon.
- Sprinkle another one-third of the cheese over the spinach.
- Arrange the bread triangles, overlapping on top of the cheese layer.
- Beat the eggs in a bowl, then add milk, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and the reserved salmon liquid; mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the dish.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and bake the strata for 1 hour.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using freshly chopped herbs such as dill or parsley in the egg mixture. If you're short on time, you can use canned spinach instead of frozen, though make sure it’s well-drained. For a twist, try substituting crab meat for salmon, making it similar to a Seafood Surprise.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salmon strata warm, garnished with fresh chives or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a brunch option, consider offering it alongside Texas Scramble or other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the strata soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon Strata contains roughly 942 calories, with 24g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1059mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare salmon strata ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the strata a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just be sure to cover it well. This allows the flavors to meld, and you can simply bake it the next day, adjusting the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar adds a nice flavor, you could use Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different taste. Mixing cheeses can also enhance the dish, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make gluten-free salmon strata, substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread. You can find various gluten-free options available in stores. Just ensure the rest of your ingredients are also gluten-free, particularly any processed items like cheese.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).