Could you call it breakfast?

I'm a big fan of breakfast. I love the variety; baked goods, egg dishes, meats, fruits, and tons of dairy options. I love that you can eat "breakfast" items for any meal. When I came across this recipe, it reminded me of some egg casseroles I've made. You know the type; cube bread, mix eggs and milk, cover with cheese, refrigerate and cook the next morning. Easy and delicious! But when I read over these ingredients a second time, my next thought was wondering who thought to mix a martini and an egg casserole. Interesting combo....

Cheese and Olive Custard

5 slices of bread
2 tablespoons butter or other fat
1 cup grated cheese
1/2 cup stuffed olives, sliced
3 eggs, slightly beaten
1/4 teaspoon prepared mustard
1/3 cup olive liquor
2 cups milk, scalded

Remove crusts from bread, spread with 1 tablespoon butter;cut into cubes, arrange 1/3 on bottom of a well-greased casserole. Cover with 1/3 of cheese and 1/2 of olives. Repeat, having cheese on top. Dot with remaining butter or other fat. Beat eggs slightly, add mustard, olive liquor and then add milk gradually, stirring constantly. Pour into casserole, set in a pan of hot water and bake in a moderately slow oven (325 F) until set, about 60 minutes. Serves 6.


Now I don't think this was intended as a breakfast dish. It could probably work as one, I suppose. I wonder, if it was served in the morning, if the accompanying beverage should be a Bloody Mary? I also wonder if using olives stuffed with bleu cheese, or even onions or garlic would elevate this dish to being a snazzy addition on a happy hour menu? If it was served as tartlets instead of a casserole, it could be a show-stopper. I might have to try that.....