Sumptuous Southern Tomato Pie: A Taste of Summer

Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re about to embark on a culinary journey through the sunny flavors of the South. Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Southern Tomato Pie – a savory pie bursting with ripe tomatoes, tangy cheese, and aromatic herbs. This iconic dish is a celebration of summer’s bounty and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of creating this mouthwatering masterpiece!

Ingredients:

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the following ingredients:

Produce:

2 teaspoons Fresh thyme
2 1/2 pounds Ripe tomatoes

Refrigerated:

1 Large egg

Condiments:

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or another mustard
1 tablespoon Prepared horseradish
3/4 cup Mayonnaise

Baking & Spices:

Freshly ground black pepper
Sea salt

Dairy:

8 ounces Sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons Heavy cream
2 tablespoons Milk

Other:

1 (9-inch deep dish) pie crust, baked and cooled

Instructions:

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delectable Southern Tomato Pie:

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices and place them in a colander. Sprinkle the slices with salt and allow them to drain for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, prepared horseradish, thyme, heavy cream, and milk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Place the baked and cooled pie crust on a baking sheet.
Layer half of the tomato slices in the bottom of the pie crust, overlapping them slightly.
Spread half of the mayonnaise mixture over the tomato slices.
Repeat the layers with the remaining tomato slices and mayonnaise mixture.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pie.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the cheese is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the pie to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Tomato Varieties: Experiment with different varieties of tomatoes, such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes, for unique flavor profiles.
Cheese Options: Feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyere.
Herb Alternatives: If fresh thyme is not available, you can use dried thyme or other herbs such as basil or oregano.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust if you’re short on time. Simply follow the package instructions for baking the crust before assembling the pie.

2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pie up to a day in advance. Cover the assembled pie with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover slices of Southern Tomato Pie for up to 1 month. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

For a keto and low-carb version of this Southern Tomato Pie, you can omit the pie crust altogether or use a low-carb crust made with almond flour or coconut flour. Replace the mayonnaise with a combination of Greek yogurt and cream cheese for a creamy filling with fewer carbs.

Indulge in the flavors of the South with our delectable Southern Tomato Pie. With its layers of ripe tomatoes, tangy mayonnaise filling, and melted cheddar cheese, this pie is a true taste of summertime. Whether served as a side dish at a barbecue or enjoyed as a light lunch with a green salad, this pie is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of this Southern classic. Happy baking!