Tomato Pie sounds intriguing, doesn't it? It's a delightful dish that brilliantly captures the essence of fresh tomatoes in a pie setting. Imagine biting into a slice that's a harmonious mix of juicy tomatoes, tangy seasonings, and a flaky crust.
If you've never had one, you might be reminded of a blend between a quiche and a classic pizza. Perfect for brunches, light dinners, or even as a unique potluck dish, this pie will surely surprise and delight your taste buds.
Why This Recipe Works
Simplicity is Key: One of the best things about this tomato pie recipe is its simplicity. You don't need fancy ingredients or complicated culinary techniques. With just fresh tomatoes, some basic seasonings, and a pie crust, you're good to go. This means that even if you're a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is easily accessible. Plus, it allows the natural flavors of the ingredients, especially the tomatoes, to shine.
Versatility and Flavor: The beauty of the tomato pie lies in its adaptability. While the base remains tomatoes, you can play around with additional toppings and seasonings. Want a hint of garlic? Add it in. Craving some spice? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You're in control. Moreover, the fusion of juicy tomatoes with a crispy pie crust creates a texture and flavor contrast that's simply irresistible. Every bite offers a burst of tomato goodness, balanced out by the crunch of the crust. It's a dish that’s sure to impress, whether you're enjoying it yourself or serving it to guests.
Ingredients
Tomatoes - Ripe, juicy, and red. These are the stars of the dish. Use beefsteak or vine-ripened for the best flavor. Substitute: Canned diced tomatoes (drained).
Pie crust - Ready-made or homemade. It's the foundation of the pie. Substitute: Puff pastry or phyllo dough.
Fresh basil - Adds an aromatic touch. Fresh is best in this dish. Substitute: Dried basil (use less).
Mozzarella cheese - Melty and delicious. Adds creaminess to the pie. Substitute: Cheddar or provolone cheese.
Mayonnaise - Creates a creamy layer. Substitute: Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Tips
- Ensure tomatoes are well-drained to prevent a soggy pie.
- Pre-baking the pie crust for a few minutes can prevent sogginess.
- Season the tomatoes with salt and let them sit for a bit to draw out excess moisture.
- Use garden-fresh tomatoes and basil when in season for an enhanced flavor.
- Feel free to add other herbs like oregano or thyme for a flavor twist.
How to Serve
Tomato pie is a delightful dish that brings out the best of tomatoes. It's perfect for brunch, lunch, or as a side dish for dinner. When serving, consider the following:
- Brunch: Pair the pie with a light salad and your favorite mimosa. The pie's savory nature complements the freshness of a crisp salad.
- Lunch: Serve alongside a bowl of creamy soup, like a tomato bisque or a broccoli cheddar.
- Dinner Side: A slice of tomato pie goes well with grilled meats. Think of it as a fancier replacement for the usual garlic bread or dinner rolls.
Similar Recipes
Tomato Pie
Ingredients
- 4-5 medium-sized Tomatoes sliced
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup of fresh basil chopped
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese shredded
- ½ cup of mayonnaise
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place pie crust in a pie dish and pre-bake for 5 minutes.
- Layer the bottom of the pie crust with sliced tomatoes.
- Mix the mayonnaise, mozzarella, and basil in a bowl, then spread over the tomatoes.
- Bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Ensure tomatoes are well-drained to prevent a soggy pie.
- Pre-baking the pie crust for a few minutes can prevent sogginess.
- Season the tomatoes with salt and let them sit for a bit to draw out excess moisture.
- Use garden-fresh tomatoes and basil when in season for an enhanced flavor.
- Feel free to add other herbs like oregano or thyme for a flavor twist.