Tomato Pie

A delicious Tomato Pie is the perfect dish to celebrate fresh, seasonal produce. This savory pie showcases juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and vibrant red onions piled high in a flaky pie shell. It’s an ideal choice for brunch or dinner gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. The cheesy topping adds a comforting finish that makes this dish irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This recipe highlights the natural flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, making every bite a taste of summer.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can whip up this Tomato Pie in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for brunch, dinner, or as a side dish during summer BBQs, this pie fits any occasion.
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy cheese layer combined with fresh vegetables creates a satisfying and rich taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or friends, this Tomato Pie is sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Tomato Pie, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Colander/strainer
• Pie dish
• Baking sheet
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowl: This is crucial for combining your cheese and mayonnaise mixture efficiently without spills.
• Colander/strainer: Helps drain excess tomato juice to prevent a soggy pie crust.
• Pie dish: A deep dish allows for ample filling while keeping everything contained during baking.

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 Crust & Topping

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

Step 2: Layer the Filling

1. In your prepared pie shell, layer the tomato slices evenly.
2. Add the chopped basil and red onion on top of the tomatoes.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheeses, and mayonnaise until well mixed.
2. Spread this cheese mixture evenly over the layered tomatoes.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese mixture is lightly browned.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once baked, let the pie rest for at least 10-15 minutes before cutting into slices.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Tomato Pie!

How to Serve Tomato Pie

Tomato Pie is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for brunch or as a main course for dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the pie.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing side that echoes the flavors in the pie.

Offer a Side of Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables, making them a perfect accompaniment.
• Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds elegance to your meal.

Add Some Crunch with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is great for soaking up any juices from the tomato pie.
• Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks offer a delightful crunch that pairs well with the creamy texture of the pie.

How to Perfect Tomato Pie

Creating the ultimate Tomato Pie requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the flavor of your fresh ingredients.
• Quality Ingredients: Use ripe Roma tomatoes and fresh basil for the best taste and texture in your pie.
• Pre-bake Shell: Ensure your pie shell is pre-baked to prevent sogginess from excess tomato juices.
• Layer Wisely: Alternate layers of tomatoes and cheese for balanced flavor in every bite.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the pie to rest after baking helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato Pie

Tomato Pie pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the savory pie.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide heartiness and complement the flavors nicely.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summer vibes and adds sweetness to balance the dish.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich tomato pie.
5. Grilled Corn Salad: Combining grilled corn with herbs gives an earthy taste that pairs well with tomatoes.
6. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in yogurt adds a creamy element without overpowering flavors.
7. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with veggies offers protein and texture alongside your main dish.
8. Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach topped with nuts and feta provides a nutritious complement to each slice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tomato Pie can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the salting step: Failing to salt the tomatoes can lead to a watery pie. Always sprinkle salt over the tomato slices and let them drain to maintain a firm texture.
• Using unripe tomatoes: Using under-ripe tomatoes can result in a lack of flavor. Choose ripe, juicy Roma tomatoes for the best taste.
• Overloading on cheese: While cheese adds flavor, too much can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the pie too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh basil elevates the dish significantly. Don’t skip this essential ingredient; it adds freshness and depth of flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Tomato Pie in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Tomato Pie

• Wrap individual slices tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Tomato Pie

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tomato Pie?

Tomato Pie is a savory dish featuring layers of fresh tomatoes, cheese, and herbs baked in a buttery crust. It’s popular in Southern cuisine.

Can I customize my Tomato Pie?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers or use different cheeses based on your preference.

Is Tomato Pie served hot or cold?

Tomato Pie is delicious both warm and at room temperature. It’s perfect for brunch or as a side dish at dinner.

How do I know when my Tomato Pie is done?

The pie is ready when the cheese topping is lightly browned and bubbling. Let it rest before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Tomato Pie recipe showcases summer’s bounty beautifully while being versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or herbs, making it a unique creation every time you bake it!