Instructions: Cook asparagus just until tender; drain and set aside. Lightly butter pieces of bread (remove crusts if you wish) and line a lightly buttered baking dish with them.

Sprinkle about half the cheese over the bread pieces (return the rest to the refrigerator for now). Top that with ham, if used, and the asparagus. If you have any bread left, arrange it on top.

Mix together the eggs, onion, seasonings, and milk. Pour evenly over the layered ingredients, then cover tightly. Refrigerate for several hours at least - overnight
is best. Preheat oven to 350-F degrees; remove strata from fridge and bake for about a half hour. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the strata, and continue baking until the strata looks firm at the center and the cheese is delectably melted.

Serves 8.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.