Tomato Pie
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 350
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
Tomato Pie is a comforting and delicious dish that celebrates the fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes and creamy cheese. Its flaky pie crust sets the stage for juicy, bursting tomatoes layered with a rich mayonnaise and herb mixture, all topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. Whether as a delightful centerpiece for lunch or a savory side at dinner, Tomato Pie is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s not just delicious, but also an excellent way to make use of garden-fresh tomatoes during the height of summer.
Why Make This Tomato Pie
Tomato Pie is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy mayonnaise brings a burst of flavors that tantalizes your taste buds. It showcases the essence of summer, making it a perfect dish for picnics, potluck gatherings, or family dinners. Plus, it’s a wonderful vegetarian option that appeals to a wide range of diets and preferences. Loved for its crispy crust and melted cheese, Tomato Pie is indeed a dish that will leave your guests asking for the recipe!
How to Make Tomato Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 pie crust
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step ensures your pie bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden crust.
### Step 2: Baking the Pie Crust
Place the pie crust in a pie dish and bake for 10 minutes. This pre-baking helps to create a sturdy base for all the juicy tomatoes and toppings that will follow, preventing a soggy crust.
### Step 3: Mixing the Filling
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, chopped basil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This creamy mixture will add flavor and richness to the tomatoes, perfectly balancing their acidity.
### Step 4: Layering the Tomatoes
Layer the sliced tomatoes neatly in the baked pie crust, ensuring even coverage. Next, gently spread the mayonnaise mixture over the tomatoes, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Finally, top the whole thing off with the shredded mozzarella cheese for that irresistibly cheesy finish.
### Step 5: Baking to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will be filled with an enticing aroma, making it hard to wait!
### Step 6: Cooling and Serving
Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This makes it easier to cut and ensures that each slice holds together beautifully.
How to Serve Tomato Pie
Tomato Pie can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions. Pair it with a refreshing green salad or serve it along with other sides for a complete meal. It also works wonderfully as a savory brunch dish or a delightful snack for picnics and gatherings. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle some extra fresh basil on top before serving for added freshness.
How to Store Tomato Pie
To store leftover Tomato Pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will keep for about 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled pie well in plastic and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Tomato Pie
- Use firm, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. Heirloom varieties work great!
- For a twist, try adding other ingredients like sautéed onions or bell peppers.
- If you prefer a crunchier topping, you can mix some breadcrumbs into the cheese before baking for added texture.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it allows the pie to set, making for cleaner slices.
Delicious Variations
- Cheesy Spinach Tomato Pie: Add cooked spinach for a nutrient boost.
- Bacon Tomato Pie: Crumbled bacon adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the dish.
- Italian Herb Tomato Pie: Mix in Italian seasoning with the mayonnaise for an extra flavor kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought mayonnaise? Yes, but homemade mayonnaise can elevate the taste!
- What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese? Cheddar or goat cheese can be excellent alternatives.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use a gluten-free pie crust available in stores or made from scratch.
- Can I prepare tomato pie ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
- Is this dish suitable for freezing? Absolutely! Just ensure it’s well-wrapped for storage.
Conclusion
Tomato Pie is a warm, inviting dish that captures the essence of summer. With its combination of refreshed flavors and creamy textures, it’s perfect for so many occasions. The best part is anyone can make it at home with ease! So grab those ripe tomatoes and give this recipe a try. I promise that the delightful outcome will have everyone coming back for more! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
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Tomato Pie
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting Tomato Pie that celebrates fresh flavors with ripe tomatoes and creamy cheese, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust in a pie dish and bake for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, chopped basil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Layer the sliced tomatoes neatly in the baked pie crust and spread the mayonnaise mixture over the tomatoes.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using firm heirloom tomatoes or mixing in some Italian seasoning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
