Looking for a simple and tasty dinner idea? This Savory Tomato Pie is sure to please. With fresh tomatoes and creamy cheese, it’s packed with flavor. I’ll guide you through easy steps to create this delight right in your kitchen. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe requires minimal prep but delivers maximum taste. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Spices and Seasonings
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Other Required Items
– 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
For this savory tomato pie, fresh ingredients make a big difference. Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. The mozzarella and ricotta cheeses create a creamy base. The Parmesan adds a nice salty touch. Fresh basil gives a bright and fragrant note, while garlic adds depth.
When you choose your spices, consider their quality. Fresh herbs always win over dried ones. The olive oil helps everything blend and adds richness.
The pre-made pie crust saves time, but feel free to make your own if you prefer. This dish combines all these flavors in a way that feels special yet easy to prepare. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. Happy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Prepare the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish.
Mixing Ingredients
– Combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Assembling the Pie
– Layer half the tomatoes at the bottom of the pie crust.
– Spread all of the cheese mixture evenly on top.
– Top with the remaining tomatoes and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella.
– Drizzle with olive oil for added flavor.
Baking Instructions
– Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
– Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
This pie is easy to make and packs a big flavor punch. You can follow the Full Recipe for detailed steps and tips to enhance your dish!
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Best Tomatoes
– Look for fresh, ripe tomatoes for maximum flavor.
– I love using heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes. Their taste is rich and sweet.
– Inspect the skin; it should be smooth and bright.
– Smell them! Fresh tomatoes have a lovely, earthy aroma.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
– Add caramelized onions for a sweet, rich taste.
– Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can boost flavor.
– Try a mix of cheeses! Blend mozzarella with feta for a tangy twist.
– A hint of smoked paprika can add depth and warmth.
Presentation Tips
– Serve it warm, garnished with fresh basil. It looks and tastes great!
– Drizzle balsamic glaze around the pie for a beautiful finish.
– Use a colorful plate to really make your pie stand out.
– Slice it into wedges for easy serving at parties or dinners.
For the full recipe, check out the instructions above and enjoy making this dish!
Variations
Vegetarian Options
You can easily make this savory tomato pie more veggie-friendly.
Consider adding spinach or other seasonal vegetables to boost flavor and nutrition.
If you want a dairy-free version, simply replace cheese with vegan alternatives.
This keeps the dish creamy and delicious without any dairy.
Additional Flavor Combinations
Want to spice things up a bit? Add cooked bacon or sausage for a meaty twist.
These flavors blend well with the tomatoes and cheese.
You can also incorporate different herbs like thyme and rosemary for added depth.
These herbs bring out the natural sweetness in the tomatoes.
Crust Alternatives
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use a cauliflower crust.
It adds a nice flavor and is lighter than traditional crusts.
Another fun twist is to try a savory biscuit topping instead of pie crust.
This gives you a unique texture and a comforting taste.
Each variation lets you enjoy savory tomato pie in new ways.
Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
– It can last in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Keeping your savory tomato pie fresh is easy. Just remember to seal it well. This way, you can enjoy it again without losing flavor.
Freezing Instructions
– Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
– Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Freezing works great if you want to save some pie for later. Just make sure it’s wrapped well to avoid freezer burn. Thawing overnight helps keep the texture nice.
Reheating Techniques
– Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results.
– Microwave for a quick reheat option, though crust may lose crispiness.
For the best taste, I suggest reheating in the oven. It brings back that lovely crisp crust. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works, but the crust may not be as good.
Check out the Full Recipe to create your own savory tomato pie and enjoy!
FAQs
How do I make a homemade pie crust?
To make a flaky pie crust, start with cold ingredients. Use:
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2-4 tablespoons ice water
1. In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
2. Cut in butter until it looks like crumbs.
3. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together.
4. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out on a floured surface until it fits your pie dish.
This crust is tasty and easy, perfect for Savory Tomato Pie.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. They are convenient and save time. Here are some pros and cons:
Pros:
– Canned tomatoes are often picked at peak ripeness.
– They are available year-round, so you can make this dish anytime.
– They are already cooked, which can save cooking time.
Cons:
– Canned tomatoes can be softer, which may change the texture.
– They might have added salt or preservatives, which can affect flavor.
If using canned tomatoes, drain them well to avoid a soggy pie.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Savory Tomato Pie ahead of time. Here’s how:
1. Prepare the pie: Assemble the pie as directed.
2. Storage: Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
3. Baking: You can bake it later. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Making it ahead of time can help you enjoy a stress-free dinner.
This blog post covered a tasty tomato pie recipe, including essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions. You learned about adding spices, variations, and storage tips.
Remember to choose fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Don’t shy away from experimenting with additions or substitutes to make the dish your own. Enjoy cooking and sharing this pie with others!
