Southern Tomato Pie – Savory, Cheesy and Summery

Introduction

The Southern Tomato Pie is a dish that embodies the warmth and richness of summer, combining the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the savory depth of cheese and the comfort of a buttery crust. This recipe is not just about the flavors; it’s also remarkably easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its balance of flavors and textures, the Southern Tomato Pie is a creative way to enjoy the best of summer’s produce using everyday ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this pie is sure to become a favorite, offering a delicious blend of tradition and simplicity.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The pie balances the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory taste of cheese and herbs, making it appealing to a wide range of tastes. All the ingredients are easily accessible in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, the Southern Tomato Pie is surprisingly easy to make. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple to prepare.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: This dish is perfect for those who want to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of fresh tomatoes, melted cheese, and a flaky crust is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of fresh tomatoes, sliced
• 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup of mayonnaise (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese, chopped basil, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Step 3: Arrange the tomato mixture in the pie crust. If using mayonnaise, dollop it on top of the tomatoes.
4. Step 4: Bake the pie for about 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Handy Tips

• To prevent the crust from becoming too brown, cover the edges with foil or a pie shield for the last 20 minutes of baking.
• For an extra golden crust, brush it with a little bit of olive oil before baking.
• Consider using heirloom tomatoes for a variety of colors and a more robust flavor.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the Southern Tomato Pie is 375°F (190°C). It’s essential to keep an eye on the pie after 30 minutes of baking, as the crust can quickly go from perfectly golden to overly browned. The pie is done when the crust is golden, the cheese is melted, and the tomatoes are tender.

Crunch Factor

The crust of the Southern Tomato Pie should be flaky and slightly crunchy, providing a nice textural contrast to the soft, cheesy filling. To achieve this, make sure the pie crust is baked until it’s golden brown. Additionally, letting the pie cool for a few minutes before serving can help the filling set and the crust retain its crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a homemade pie crust, keep all the ingredients cold, including the flour, to ensure the crust turns out flaky and not tough.
• Don’t overmix the tomato and cheese filling, as this can make the pie too dense and less flavorful.
• Consider adding some diced onions or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

Storage Tips

• The Southern Tomato Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• It’s not recommended to freeze the pie, as the texture of the crust and the filling can become unpleasantly soggy upon thawing.
• For longer storage, consider making the pie crust and the filling separately and assembling the pie just before baking.

Gift Packaging Ideas

The Southern Tomato Pie makes a wonderful gift, especially for neighbors, friends, or family members who appreciate homemade goodies. Consider packaging it in a decorative tin or a wooden crate, wrapped in a checkered tablecloth or a burlap sack, and tied with a ribbon. Adding a few fresh herbs or a handwritten recipe card can make the gift even more special and personal.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add some dried oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes to give the pie a unique twist.
• Creative toppings: Top the pie with some caramelized onions, roasted bell peppers, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Use different types of cheese, such as feta, parmesan, or goat cheese, to change the flavor profile of the pie.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the crust turns out too tough, it might be due to overmixing the dough. If the filling is too soggy, it could be because the tomatoes were too wet or the pie was not baked long enough.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have certain ingredients, such as fresh basil, you can substitute them with dried herbs or omit them altogether.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the pie while it’s baking. If the crust is getting too brown, cover the edges with foil. If the filling is not set, bake the pie for a few more minutes.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled pie, as the texture can become soggy. However, you can freeze the pie crust and the filling separately and assemble the pie when you’re ready to bake it.
• Is it gluten-free? The traditional pie crust contains gluten, but you can make a gluten-free version using gluten-free flours.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make a larger pie. Just keep in mind that the baking time might be longer for a larger pie.

Conclusion

The Southern Tomato Pie is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of the year, but especially during the summer when fresh tomatoes are at their best. With its easy preparation, impressive presentation, and rich flavors, this pie is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to make the pie your own. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, the Southern Tomato Pie is a recipe that’s sure to please and inspire.