Green Strata

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the leeks and cook, stirring often until soft and beginning to brown slightly, about 8 minutes. Add the chopped spinach and cook an additional 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Transfer the mixture to a colander and drain any excess liquid. Add the salt, chili flakes and asparagus and stir to combine. Set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Butter a 9 x 13 baking dish with the remaining teaspoon of butter.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs to break up the yolks. Add the 3/4 cup of cheese, the milk and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and whisk until smooth. Add the bread and vegetable mixture and stir with a rubber spatula to coat well. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake, covered for 15 minutes.
4. Uncover the baking dish and continue to bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the custard is set, the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the middle of the dish comes out clean. Let the strata stand for 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving warm.