Tomato Pie

A savory Tomato Pie is an irresistible dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of summer produce. This rustic delight is perfect for brunches, dinners, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. With layers of juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a cheesy topping in a buttery pie shell, this recipe combines simplicity with flavor. Whether served warm from the oven or at room temperature, Tomato Pie is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious pie in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh tomatoes, basil, and cheeses creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner; it can be served as a main course or side dish.
• Great for Gatherings: Impress your family and friends with this Southern classic that everyone will love.
• Seasonal Goodness: A fantastic way to use fresh summer produce when tomatoes are at their peak.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before starting. These tools will help you create the perfect Tomato Pie.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Pie dish
• Colander/strainer
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Pie dish: A good-quality pie dish ensures even baking and a beautifully presented pie.
• Colander/strainer: Helps drain excess moisture from the tomatoes for a firmer texture in the final dish.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Tomato Filling

• 5 Roma tomatoes (peeled and sliced)
• 10 fresh basil leaves (roughly chopped)
• 1/2 cup red onion (chopped or thinly sliced)

For the Pie Assembly

• 1 9 inch pre-baked deep dish pie shell
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp shredded Parmesan Cheese
• salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Tomato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Place the sliced tomatoes in a clean colander/strainer set in the sink in one layer.
2. Sprinkle them lightly with salt and allow to drain for about 10 minutes.
3. Use a paper towel to pat-dry the tomatoes gently, ensuring most excess juice is removed without squishing them.

Step 2: Layer the Filling

1. In your pre-baked pie shell, layer the drained tomato slices evenly across the bottom.
2. Sprinkle chopped basil and red onion over the top of the tomatoes.
3. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture

1. In a separate mixing bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise.
2. Mix until well combined, then spread this cheesy mixture evenly over the layered tomatoes.
3. Finally, sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 4: Bake Your Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. Place your assembled pie into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese mixture turns lightly browned.

Step 5: Serve Your Tomato Pie

1. Once baked, remove from oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes to set.
2. Cut into slices and serve warm for best results.

Enjoy your delightful Tomato Pie, packed with summer’s finest flavors!

How to Serve Tomato Pie

Serving Tomato Pie is an enjoyable experience, as it pairs well with many sides and drinks. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.

With a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, basil, and sliced tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing contrast.

As a Main Dish

• With Grilled Chicken: Serve slices of Tomato Pie with grilled chicken seasoned with herbs to add protein to your meal.
• Accompanied by Quinoa: A side of quinoa adds a nutty flavor and complements the richness of the pie.

For Brunch

• With Scrambled Eggs: Pair Tomato Pie with fluffy scrambled eggs for a hearty brunch option.
• Alongside Fruit Salad: A bowl of seasonal fruit can balance the savory flavors of the pie.

How to Perfect Tomato Pie

To make the best Tomato Pie possible, consider these handy tips that will elevate your dish to new heights.

• Bold Tomatoes: Use ripe Roma tomatoes for sweetness and texture; they hold up well in baking.
• Dry Thoroughly: Ensure you drain and pat dry the tomatoes well to avoid a soggy crust.
• Layer Wisely: Alternate layers of tomato slices, basil, and onion to distribute flavors evenly throughout the pie.
• Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack for added spice or feta for a tangy twist.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the pie to rest after baking; this helps set the filling and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato Pie

Tomato Pie is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with complementary side dishes. Here are some perfect pairings to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment; it’s perfect for soaking up any juices.
2. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw can provide a nice crunch and contrasting flavors alongside your pie.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and flavor while being healthy and satisfying.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a comforting side that works well with Tomato Pie.
5. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad offers freshness and balances the savory richness of the pie.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs pairs nicely without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Tomato Pie, a few common mistakes can affect the final outcome. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Not draining the tomatoes properly: Failing to remove excess moisture can make your pie soggy. Always allow the sliced tomatoes to drain for at least 10 minutes.
• Overseasoning: Adding too much salt or pepper can overpower the fresh flavors. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste as needed.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Using dried herbs instead of fresh basil diminishes flavor. Always opt for fresh basil and ripe tomatoes for the best results.
• Ignoring rest time: Cutting into the pie too soon can lead to messy slices. Allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to set properly.
• Not pre-baking the pie crust: A soggy crust can ruin your dish. Pre-bake your pie shell until lightly golden before adding fillings.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Tomato Pie in an airtight container.
• It will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tomato Pie

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen Tomato Pie can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tomato Pie

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture, for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tomato Pie?

Tomato Pie is a savory dish made with layers of fresh tomatoes, cheese, herbs, and a buttery pie crust, often enjoyed as a Southern delicacy.

How do I customize my Tomato Pie?

You can add various vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or swap cheeses based on your preference to create your unique version of Tomato Pie.

Can I make Tomato Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day in advance. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with Tomato Pie?

Tomato Pie pairs well with a light salad or roasted vegetables, making it perfect for brunch or dinner gatherings.

Conclusion

This delightful Tomato Pie is not only easy to make but also versatile enough for any meal occasion. With its rich flavors from fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for brunch or dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses!

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