Tomato pie is a delightful dish that perfectly combines the essence of summer tomatoes with a flaky crust, creamy filling, and a touch of cheese. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. With its rich flavors and stunning presentation, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into why this tomato pie is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to adore this tomato pie! Here are just a few:
- Fresh Ingredients: This recipe shines with fresh, ripe tomatoes, making it a perfect dish for the summer months or whenever you find yourself with an abundance of tomatoes.
- Simple Preparation: Tomato pie may sound fancy, but it’s incredibly easy to put together! With basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a stunning dish ready in no time.
- Versatile Options: You can customize the pie with different herbs, cheeses, and even add other vegetables if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Comfort Food: There’s something deeply comforting about a savory pie filled with gooey cheese and savory tomatoes that makes it hard to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious tomato pie, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if you prefer)
- 4-6 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, simply follow the package instructions to pre-bake it according to the directions. If you’re making your own, roll it out and place it in a pie dish. Make sure to poke a few holes in the bottom to avoid any bubbling!
2. Slice the Tomatoes
Grab those fresh tomatoes and slice them into even pieces. The key here is to use juicy tomatoes that are in season for the best flavor.
3. Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, cottage cheese, mayonnaise, chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
4. Layer the Ingredients
Start layering the sliced tomatoes on the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust. Once the bottom is covered, spread the cheese mixture over the tomatoes evenly.
5. Top with Parmesan
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the filling. This will create a beautiful golden crust when baked.
6. Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pie for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning.
7. Let it Cool
Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the filling set and make serving easier!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
Tomato pie can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a fresh salad or serve it as a side dish at your next barbecue. It also makes for a fantastic lunch option when served with some crusty bread! Consider garnishing with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra flavor boost.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave, but know that the crust may not be as crisp as when it was first baked.
Helpful Tips
- Tomato Varieties: Feel free to mix different types of tomatoes for a unique flavor. Heirloom tomatoes add a colorful and flavorful twist!
- Cheese Choices: Besides mozzarella, consider adding cheddar or feta for a different taste profile.
- Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano if basil isn’t your thing.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pie a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use store-bought tomatoes?
While fresh tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well to avoid a watery filling.
Is it necessary to pre-bake the crust?
Yes, pre-baking the crust helps prevent it from becoming soggy once you add the filling. It ensures a crisp crust that complements the soft filling.
Can I freeze tomato pie?
Yes, you can freeze tomato pie before baking it. Cover it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, bake it from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.
What can I serve with tomato pie?
Tomato pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. For an appetizer, consider serving it alongside a cheese platter!
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is inherently vegetarian, and you can add additional veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for more depth and color.
Conclusion
Tomato pie is a delicious way to enjoy summer flavors and make the most out of fresh produce. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to adapt it to your personal tastes. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or just because, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit! So gather your ingredients and get baking—you won’t regret it!
Print
Delicious Tomato Pie Master the Art of Flavorful Baking
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Savor the deliciousness of Tomato Pie Master flavorful baking with our expert tips and elevate your culinary skills to new heights Delight awaits
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- minutes: 10
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 calories
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 15 grams