Tomato Pie
Tomato pie is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes and aromatic herbs with the comforts of a cheesy, creamy filling. This recipe is perfect for showcasing homegrown tomatoes during the summer or as a comforting dish any time of year. It’s simple to put together and makes for a satisfying meal that can be served warm or at room temperature.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 300
- Protein: 9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 31 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 500 mg
Why Make This Tomato Pie
Tomato pie presents a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that is both comforting and refreshing. The flaky crust provides a perfect foundation for the juicy tomatoes and creamy cheese, making every bite a pleasure. This dish can be enjoyed as a main course with a side salad or even as a savory pie at brunch. It’s a fantastic way to use up fresh summer tomatoes, and it is sure to please both tomato lovers and those new to this savory treat.
How to Make Tomato Pie
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven heats, place your pie crust in a pie dish and pre-bake it for about 10 minutes. This step ensures that the crust remains flaky and doesn’t become soggy from the moisture of the tomatoes.
Step 2: Mixing
In a bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Let this mixture drain for 10 minutes—this helps to reduce the excess liquid that can make the pie watery. Meanwhile, mix together 1 cup of mayonnaise and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese in another bowl.
Step 3: Layering
Once the tomatoes have drained, it’s time to layer your pie. Start by placing half of the tomato slices in the pre-baked pie crust. Follow with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the mayonnaise mixture. Repeat this layering process, finishing with the remaining cheese mixture on top.
Step 4: Finishing
Before baking, sprinkle the top with fresh chopped basil for added flavor. Bake your pie in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until it is golden brown and bubbly. Once done, allow it to cool slightly before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set up a bit, making the pie easier to cut.
How to Serve Tomato Pie
Tomato pie is delicious served warm or at room temperature. Slice it into wedges and serve it alongside a crisp green salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it as a hearty appetizer at gatherings or potlucks.
How to Store Tomato Pie
To store leftover tomato pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, no need to thaw; simply increase the bake time by about 10-15 minutes.
Expert Tips for Perfect Tomato Pie
- For a unique flavor, try adding a hint of garlic powder or onion powder to the mayonnaise mixture.
- Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best results since they provide sweetness and a rich flavor.
- If using store-bought pie crust, be sure to check the cooking instructions for pre-baking to ensure it cooks perfectly.
- Feel free to explore different cheeses, such as cheddar or feta, for a delicious twist.
Delicious Variations
- Herbed Tomato Pie: Add a blend of fresh herbs like thyme and oregano to the tomato layer for extra flavor.
- Vegetable Tomato Pie: Include spinach or zucchini layers for added vegetables and nutrition.
- Pesto Tomato Pie: Mix in some pesto with the mayonnaise for a burst of herbal flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use another type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute the mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or any cheese that melts well. -
What can I serve with tomato pie?
Tomato pie pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. -
Is it possible to use canned tomatoes?
While fresh tomatoes are preferred for their flavor and texture, you can use canned tomatoes. Just drain them well to avoid excess moisture. -
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and bake it just before serving. It also freezes well for long-term storage. -
How do I know when the pie is done?
Look for a bubbly filling and a golden brown top. The edges of the crust should also be slightly browned.
Conclusion
Tomato pie is a wonderfully versatile dish that combines the juicy freshness of tomatoes with creamy cheese and crunchy crust. It’s easy to prepare and brings a burst of flavor to your table, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual get-together, this pie is sure to impress your guests. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy each delicious slice!
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Tomato Pie
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish combining fresh tomatoes and aromatic herbs with a cheesy, creamy filling, perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 4–5 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh chopped basil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pre-bake the pie crust for about 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine sliced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Let drain for 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix mayonnaise and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Layer half of the tomato slices in the crust, followed by half of the mozzarella and mayonnaise mixture. Repeat the layers.
- Sprinkle with fresh basil and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, consider adding garlic or onion powder to the mayonnaise mixture. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
