Tomato Pie

Tomato Pie Recipe | Vegetarian Recipe from USA | Ingredients: Pie Shells, Tomatoes, Green Onions, Chives, Basil, Mayonnaise, Cheddar

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Tomato pie is a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for summer when tomatoes are at their peak. This dish is a great way to showcase the fresh flavors of tomatoes and herbs in a simple and satisfying way.

History

Tomato pie is a classic Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is believed to have originated in the United States, specifically in the Southern states where tomatoes are abundant during the summer months. The recipe has been passed down through families and has evolved over time to include different variations and ingredients.

Ingredients

2 cooked and cooled pie shells
4 to 5 peeled tomatoes
0.25 cup diced green onions
0.25 cup diced chives
6 to 8 leaves or one bunch of chopped fresh basil
1 cup of mayonnaise
1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Prepare the pie crust according to the package directions. Allow the pie crust to cool completely.
Peel and slice the tomatoes.
Layer the tomatoes in the pie crust.
Drizzle a small amount of olive oil (optional) over the tomatoes. Sprinkle the tomatoes with salt and pepper.
Next, top the tomatoes with basil, chives, and onions.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cheese and mayonnaise.
Spread the cheese and mayonnaise mixture over the top of the pie.
Bake the pie at 350 – 400°F (204°C) for 30 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the pie has heated completely through.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version of tomato pie.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique flavor profile.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the pie to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor in this dish.

- Pre-cooking the pie crust before adding the filling will help prevent a soggy bottom.

- Experiment with different herbs and cheeses to customize the flavor of the pie to your liking.

- Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Tomato pie is delicious served warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with a simple green salad or fresh fruit for a light and summery meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the pie at a moderate temperature allows the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together without overcooking the tomatoes.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use store-bought pie crust or a homemade crust recipe.

- Substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for the mayonnaise.

- Use any variety of tomatoes, such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes, for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomato pie can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a great make-ahead dish for entertaining or meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the tomato pie with additional fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Tomato pie pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover tomato pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (176°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of tomato pie contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of tomato pie contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of tomato pie contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of tomato pie contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomato pie is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

Tomato pie contains dairy (cheese and mayonnaise) and gluten (pie crust).

Summary

Tomato pie is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is relatively high in fat and calories, but also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Tomato pie is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for showcasing the fresh flavors of summer tomatoes. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to impress. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

for Tomato Pie. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in the countryside. I remember my mother and I were invited to a neighbor's house for a summer cookout. As we arrived, the aroma of grilled meats and fresh vegetables filled the air, but what caught my eye was a beautiful pie sitting on the picnic table.

I asked our neighbor, Mrs. Johnson, what kind of pie it was, and she smiled and said it was a Tomato Pie. I had never heard of such a thing before, as pies in my family were always sweet and filled with fruits like apples or berries. Mrs. Johnson explained that Tomato Pie was a savory dish, made with ripe tomatoes, cheese, and herbs, all baked in a flaky pie crust.

I watched in fascination as she sliced the pie and served it to us. The first bite was a revelation - the tangy tomatoes paired perfectly with the creamy cheese, and the flaky crust added a delightful crunch. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this delicious dish.

After the cookout, I asked Mrs. Johnson for the recipe, and she was more than happy to share it with me. She explained that she had learned how to make Tomato Pie from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. I felt honored to receive such a prized family recipe and vowed to master it myself.

I spent the next few days practicing and perfecting the recipe for Tomato Pie. I gathered the freshest tomatoes from our garden, grated sharp cheddar cheese, and mixed in fragrant herbs like basil and oregano. I carefully rolled out the pie crust and filled it with the tomato and cheese mixture, then baked it until golden and bubbly.

The first bite of my homemade Tomato Pie brought back memories of that summer cookout with Mrs. Johnson. The flavors were just as I remembered - tangy, creamy, and utterly delicious. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Tomato Pie for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and picnics. It has always been a hit, with people asking for the recipe and coming back for seconds. I have added my own twist to the original recipe, experimenting with different cheeses, adding caramelized onions or fresh herbs, but the essence of the dish remains the same - a celebration of summer's bounty in a flaky pie crust.

As I look back on my journey with Tomato Pie, I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from Mrs. Johnson and carry on the tradition of this cherished recipe. It has become more than just a dish to me - it is a connection to the past, a reminder of the simple pleasures of home cooking, and a way to share love and memories with those around me.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a taste of summer, I urge you to try making Tomato Pie. It may seem unconventional at first, but I promise you won't be disappointed. The tangy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and flaky crust will transport you to a sunny afternoon in a backyard picnic, surrounded by loved ones and good food. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass down the recipe to your own grandchildren, just like I did.