Summertime Tomato Pie Recipe

Savory Tomato Pie Recipe: A Summertime Classic

If you’re looking for a savory pie that screams summer, look no further than this delightful Tomato Pie recipe. This dish is perfect for showcasing those juicy, ripe summer tomatoes that are the highlight of the season. With its combination of fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and cheese nestled in a flaky crust, this pie is sure to become a family favorite.

Why Tomato Pie?

Tomato pie is more than just a delicious summer dish; it’s a tradition in many households. It brings together simple, wholesome ingredients to create a flavor-packed meal. Whether you’re a tomato lover or someone who’s usually indifferent to this fruit, tomato pie has a way of winning everyone over.

Recipe Details:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients You’ll Need

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons white wine
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh minced parsley
• 1 (9-inch) baked pie crust
• 3-4 medium tomatoes, sliced (enough to fill the pie ¾ full)
• 15-20 fresh basil leaves

How to Prepare Your Summertime Tomato Pie

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Set your oven to 350°F to get it ready for baking.
2. Prepare the Mixture
   • In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, white wine, dry mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well blended and set aside.
3. Layer the Tomatoes
   • Place half of the tomato slices in the baked pie shell. Arrange fresh basil leaves over the tomatoes, then top with the remaining tomato slices.
4. Add the Topping
   • Spoon the Parmesan and mayonnaise mixture over the tomatoes. Don’t worry about spreading it perfectly; it will even out during baking.
5. Bake
   • Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese on top. Bake the pie for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and bubbly. Serve hot.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Tomato Pie

• Tomato Selection: Choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best results. Avoid using overripe or flavorless grocery store tomatoes.
• Crust Choice: If you’re short on time, a high-quality frozen pie crust can be a great substitute for homemade crust.
• Flavor Boost: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of larger ones?
A: Yes, cherry tomatoes can be used. Just slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly.

Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the pie a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover tomato pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Want More Delicious Recipes?

Craving more scrumptious and healthy recipes? Dive into my Pinterest board for a treasure trove of culinary inspiration! And if you’re eager to make meal prep even simpler, don’t miss out on my cookbook, The How-To Cookbook for Teens: 100 Easy Recipes to Learn the Basics. It’s brimming with quick, easy recipes designed to elevate your cooking game. Grab your copy today and start transforming your meals!

A Brief History of Tomato Pie

Philadelphia is renowned for its Tomato Pie, a beloved regional specialty. This dish originated in the early 1900s when bakeries used leftover bread topped with tomato sauce, or “gravy,” and Parmesan cheese. Over time, this humble creation evolved into the Tomato Pie we enjoy today.

Conclusion

This summertime Tomato Pie is a must-try for any tomato lover. With its flavorful filling and crispy crust, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, this pie will bring a taste of summer to your table.

Author: Kerry Dunnington, author of This Book Cooks