As a lover of savory pies, I’m excited to share with you my favorite Tomato Pie recipe. This dish is perfect for summer, using fresh tomatoes and a blend of cheeses that will leave you wanting more. Here’s why you’ll love it and how to make it quickly and easily.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Serving Size: 6-8 servings
Why You’ll Love It
I adore this tomato pie for several reasons:
- Fresh Flavors: It combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the tanginess of cheese and herbs.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal preparation.
- Versatile: You can customize it with your favorite cheeses and herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 3-4 large tomatoes (about 2 lbs), sliced into ¼-inch thick pieces
- ¼ cup finely chopped basil
- ½ cup chopped green onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). Place the pie crust in a pie plate and freeze for 30 minutes. Line the crust with parchment paper and pie weights, then bake for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment and pie weights, poke holes in the crust with a fork, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 2: Drain the Tomatoes
While the crust is baking, place the tomato slices in a colander over a bowl or paper towels. Sprinkle with salt to draw out excess moisture and let them sit for 20-25 minutes. Pat the tomatoes dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Mix the Herbs and Cheese
In a bowl, combine the basil, green onion, and garlic. In another bowl, mix the mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Layer the tomato slices in the pie crust, followed by the herb mixture, and finally the cheese mixture.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Bake the pie for 30 minutes at 350°F (176°C). Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Brunch or Lunch: Serve warm with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
- Dinner: Pair with grilled meats or as a side dish.
- Picnic: Perfect for outdoor gatherings, as it’s easy to transport and serve.
Tips for Customization
- Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses like Parmesan, Swiss, or feta.
- Herbs: Experiment with parsley, thyme, or oregano for unique flavors.
- Add Some Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 22g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 15g
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust?
A: Yes, store-bought pie crust works well if you’re short on time. Just follow the package instructions for pre-baking.
Q: How do I prevent the pie from becoming soggy?
A: Make sure to drain the tomatoes thoroughly and pat them dry before adding them to the pie.
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the pie and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it just before serving.
Q: What are some other ingredients I can add?
A: Consider adding cooked bacon, diced bell peppers, or chopped mushrooms for added flavor and texture. Enjoy your delicious homemade tomato pie!
