Tomato Pie

This Tomato Pie is an irresistible combination of sweet, juicy tomatoes layered in a buttery, flaky crust, topped with a rich blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, offering a balance of savory and fresh flavors that will make your taste buds sing. The balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fresh tomatoes, while the fresh basil gives it a herbaceous finish.

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering pie that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a savory appetizer, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to showcase those summer tomatoes at their peak ripeness, making it a perfect choice for any time of the year.

Full Recipe:

1 pre-baked pie crust
4 medium tomatoes, sliced

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Place the pie crust on a baking sheet.
Arrange the sliced tomatoes in layers in the pie crust, starting from the outer edges and working your way to the center.
Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes, and sprinkle with basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the tomatoes.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Top with fresh chopped basil before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

A Perfect Combination of Flavors

The flavor profile of Tomato Pie is perfectly balanced between sweet, juicy tomatoes and the richness of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan. The addition of mayo, which serves as a creamy base, ties everything together, adding depth and smoothness to each bite. The sprinkling of garlic, dill, parsley, and chives provides an aromatic, fresh burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes.

But what really takes this pie over the top is the addition of plant-based bacon bites. These add a smoky depth to the dish that truly enhances the other flavors. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the hot sauce adds just the right touch of spice, making this Tomato Pie not only savory but also slightly tangy and flavorful.

How to Make Tomato Pie: A Simple Yet Flavorful Process

The preparation of this dish is relatively straightforward, though there are a few key tips to ensure the best results. For the crust, you can use a store-bought pie crust to save time, but if you prefer, you can opt to make your own for an added personal touch. Either way, the pie’s filling is where the magic happens.

First, slice the tomatoes and allow them to rest with a pinch of salt for about 8 minutes. This step ensures that the excess moisture from the tomatoes is removed, which is key to achieving a crisp and non-soggy pie. After this, the tomatoes are gently patted dry before being layered in the pie crust.

The filling itself is a mixture of mozzarella, Parmesan, bacon bites, mayo, and a blend of herbs and spices. Once the filling is spread on top of the tomatoes in the crust, it’s baked to cheesy perfection in the oven. After baking, it’s recommended to let the pie cool for a few minutes to allow the flavors to set and enhance the overall texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Tomato Pie is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. It makes for a wonderful lunch or dinner, and it can even be served as a brunch item or breakfast treat. You can pair it with a fresh salad or a simple soup for a complete meal.

The pie can also be made ahead of time, as it stores well for up to four days. Simply refrigerate it and reheat or serve it cold. This makes it a great choice for meal prepping, ensuring you have a ready-to-eat dish whenever you need it.

Feel free to experiment with different types of tomatoes or even add other vegetables to the pie for added flavor. For example, adding roasted bell peppers or zucchini could complement the tomatoes beautifully. You can also use different herbs like thyme or oregano to change the flavor profile according to your preferences.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Tomato Pie

Tomato Preparation: Make sure to let the tomatoes sit after salting them for the full 8 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture and prevents a soggy crust. Be sure to pat them dry thoroughly before using.
Let the Pie Cool: After baking, allow the pie to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and ensures the pie holds together better when sliced.

Customize the Filling: If you’re vegan or dairy-free, you can use dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan to make the pie vegan-friendly. The plant-based bacon bits are already included for extra flavor, but feel free to adjust the level of spice by adding more hot sauce or even a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Experiment with Crusts: If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, try using a gluten-free pie crust or even a savory puff pastry crust for a unique twist.
Make It Your Own: This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Swap in different vegetables like onions, mushrooms, or spinach for a more hearty dish. You can also top the pie with fresh herbs like basil or thyme right before serving for an extra touch of freshness.

The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion

Tomato Pie is perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual family meals to elegant brunches with friends. It can be enjoyed at any temperature—freshly baked, reheated, or even cold. This dish is incredibly forgiving, allowing for substitutions based on your tastes and what ingredients you have on hand.

The balance of fresh ingredients, savory cheeses, and zesty spices creates a comforting yet elevated dish that will please almost anyone. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a comforting meal at home, Tomato Pie is sure to impress.

Conclusion

Tomato Pie is a delicious, savory dish that combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes with the creaminess of cheeses and the smokiness of plant-based bacon. Its versatility makes it suitable for any meal, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. By following a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor. With tips for customization and serving suggestions, Tomato Pie is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

This dish proves that sometimes, simplicity is the key to creating something truly exceptional. It’s easy to make, full of fresh ingredients, and guaranteed to become a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or your friends, this Tomato Pie is sure to be a hit every time.