Instructions: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Oil or butter a deep 9- to 10-inch baking dish.

Slice the bread into approximately 1-inch cubes. Transfer the bread to a baking sheet and toast for about 20 minutes, stirring once or twice, until golden brown and lightly crisp.

Slice the artichoke hearts about 1/3-inch thick. Mix them with the thyme and garlic in a small bowl. Arrange 2 or 3 equal alternating layers of the bread, cheeses, and artichoke hearts in the baking dish.

Whisk the eggs with the half-and-half, salt, pepper, and reserved artichoke marinade. Pour the custard over the bread mixture. Drizzle the olive oil over the surface. Cover and refrigerate the strata for at least 2 hours and up to overnight.

Remove the strata from the refrigerator 20 to 30 minutes before you plan to bake it. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake the strata for 50 to 55 minutes, until puffed, golden brown, and lightly set in the center. Serve hot.

This recipe yields 8 or more servings

Comments: We cube the bread in this case rather than slice it so that the pieces are closer in size to the artichoke hearts, and then we toast it too for extra flavor and texture. Good additions, if on hand, include a handful of slivered briny black olives or soaked sun-dried tomatoes.

Description: "A sunny combo of Californian-Italian flavors, this is a strata that shines year-round."

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