If you're looking to enhance your summer meals, tomato pie might just be the perfect solution. You've got options ranging from the Classic Southern Tomato Pie with its creamy, cheesy goodness to a Spicy Tomato and Pesto Pie that packs a flavorful punch. Each recipe brings something unique to the table, whether it's fresh herbs or a flaky crust. Curious about how to create these delicious variations? Let's investigate the details of each recipe and find the one that'll suit your taste perfectly.
Classic Southern Tomato Pie
Classic Southern Tomato Pie is a deliciously comforting dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of ripe summer tomatoes, complemented by a creamy filling and a flaky crust. This Southern staple is perfect for a family gathering or a casual lunch, and it's sure to impress with its rich taste and beautiful presentation.
With fresh herbs and cheese combined, this tomato pie is a delightful way to enjoy one of summer's greatest gifts.
Ingredients:
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 4-5 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by placing the sliced tomatoes in a colander, sprinkling them with salt, and letting them drain for about 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, black pepper, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard, mixing well until all ingredients are incorporated.
Spread a layer of the drained tomato slices on the bottom of the pie crust, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layering process, finishing with the cheese mixture on top.
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your Classic Southern Tomato Pie, consider using heirloom tomatoes for their rich taste and vibrant colors.
When layering the tomatoes in the pie crust, you can also incorporate other ingredients like caramelized onions or cooked bacon for added depth.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise.
Make sure to let the pie cool before slicing; this will help it hold its shape.
Finally, serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Heirloom Tomato and Basil Pie
Heirloom Tomato and Basil Pie is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh, ripe tomatoes paired with aromatic basil. This savory pie is perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The combination of flaky crust, creamy filling, and the natural sweetness of heirloom tomatoes creates a mouthwatering experience that's sure to impress.
Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow and yields a stunning result.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 4-5 heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently against the sides.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, salt, pepper, and oregano. Stir until well blended.
Layer half of the sliced heirloom tomatoes on the bottom of the crust, followed by half of the chopped basil. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the tomatoes, then layer the remaining tomatoes and basil on top.
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the pie is set and the top is golden brown. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, choose ripe heirloom tomatoes from a local farmer's market or your garden.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese to improve the creaminess, such as goat cheese or feta.
If you prefer a crust with more texture, consider adding herbs or cheese to the crust dough.
This pie can be served warm, at room temperature, or even cold, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Enjoy your Heirloom Tomato and Basil Pie with a fresh green salad or a glass of chilled white wine!
Cheesy Garlic Tomato Galette
Cheesy Garlic Tomato Galette is a delightful and rustic dish that combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the savory notes of garlic and cheese, all enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust. This galette is perfect for showcasing ripe summer tomatoes and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an ideal dish for gatherings, picnics, or a cozy dinner at home.
The beauty of a galette lies in its imperfect form, allowing you to fold the edges over the filling, creating a beautiful, freeform tart that's as delicious as it's visually appealing.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, feta, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper, mixing well. Spoon the tomato mixture onto the center of the crust, leaving a 2-inch border.
Fold the edges of the crust over the filling, pleating it as you go, and brush the crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the tomatoes are bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves and serving.
Extra Tips:
For an even more flavorful galette, consider using a mix of heirloom tomatoes for a variety of colors and tastes. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or cheddar, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
To prevent a soggy crust, you might sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or cornmeal on the crust before adding the filling, which will help absorb excess moisture from the tomatoes.
Enjoy your Cheesy Garlic Tomato Galette warm or at room temperature, and don't hesitate to pair it with a light salad or a glass of white wine for a complete meal!
Mediterranean Tomato Tart
The Mediterranean Tomato Tart is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This savory tart features a flaky pastry crust filled with ripe, juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and creamy cheese, making it the perfect appetizer or light meal.
Simple to prepare yet impressive in presentation, this tart is sure to impress both family and guests, capturing the essence of summer in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust or puff pastry
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional for drizzling)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the pie crust or puff pastry and fit it into a 9-inch tart pan, trimming the edges as necessary.
In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, crumbled feta, chopped basil, oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the crust, then layer the sliced tomatoes on top, arranging them in a circular pattern for a beautiful presentation.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the tomatoes are tender.
Allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing and serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with balsamic glaze if desired.
Extra Tips:
To improve the flavor of your Mediterranean Tomato Tart, consider using heirloom tomatoes for a variety of colors and tastes.
You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of richness.
For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust or make the tart crust using almond flour.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or dill, and serve the tart with a side salad for a complete meal.
Make sure to let the tart cool slightly before slicing to prevent the filling from spilling out.
Enjoy!
Spicy Tomato and Pesto Pie
Spicy Tomato and Pesto Pie is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the richness of pesto and the tanginess of fresh tomatoes, all baked onto a flaky crust. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a comforting weeknight meal.
The heat from the spices complements the sweetness of the tomatoes, making every bite a burst of flavor. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, this pie is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming any excess.
In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, olive oil, salt, and pepper, tossing to coat. Spread the basil pesto evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.
Layer the seasoned tomatoes over the pesto, followed by the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the tomato mixture.
Using heirloom tomatoes can improve the flavor and presentation of the pie. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, to add a unique twist.
Serve with a side salad to balance the richness of the pie, and enjoy the burst of flavors with each slice!