Tomato Pie
Tomato pie is a delightful fusion of savory flavors and fresh ingredients, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. With a flaky crust, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, this recipe will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether served as a main dish or a side, tomato pie is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and savor the wonderful flavors of summer tomatoes!
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 4-5 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, while cooking time is approximately 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 280 calories, 15g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 10g protein. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and prick the bottom with a fork.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the pie crust.
- Layer sliced tomatoes on top of the mayonnaise mixture.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes. For a different flavor, consider using feta cheese instead of mozzarella or adding cooked bacon for extra richness.
Serving and Pairings
Tomato pie pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or a light soup. It can also be served as an appetizer or a main dish at family gatherings and picnics.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover tomato pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using under-ripe tomatoes can lead to a bland flavor.
- Overbaking may result in a dry pie.
- Not pre-baking the crust can make it soggy.
- Skipping the cheese may reduce richness.
- Using too much salt can overpower the dish.
Helpful Tips
- Choose the ripest tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Let the pie cool before slicing to maintain its shape.
- Add fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.
- Experiment with different cheeses for variety.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in tomato pie?
Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
Is tomato pie served hot or cold?
Tomato pie can be enjoyed hot, warm, or even cold, making it versatile for any meal or occasion.
Can I make tomato pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat it before serving.
What type of crust works best for tomato pie?
A flaky pie crust is traditional, but you can also use a puff pastry or even a biscuit crust for a unique twist.
How do I know when the tomato pie is done?
The pie is done when the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Conclusion
Tomato pie is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and comforting flavors. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, this recipe will surely impress everyone at your table.
Tomato Pie
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 4-5 ripe tomatoes sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and prick the bottom with a fork.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the pie crust.
- Layer sliced tomatoes on top of the mayonnaise mixture.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
