Summer Scrumptious Tomato Pie

Summer Scrumptious Tomato Pie: A Seasonal Delight

As the warm sun of summer kisses the earth, it brings forth a bounty of fresh produce that inspires delightful culinary creations. Among the treasures of the season, ripe tomatoes stand out, offering vibrant color and juicy flavor that embodies the essence of summer. In this recipe, we celebrate the simplicity and freshness of summer with our Summer Scrumptious Tomato Pie. This savory pie combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with fragrant basil, sharp cheddar cheese, and a crispy crust, creating a dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée or craving a taste of the season, this tomato pie is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

Ingredients

Produce

  • 1 loosely-packed cup Basil, fresh leaves
  • 2 Green onions
  • 1/3 cup Italian parsley
  • 1 1/2 lbs Tomatoes, ripe

Condiments

  • 3/4 cup Mayonnaise

Baking & Spices

  • 1/2 tsp Pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 tsp Salt

Oils & Vinegars

  • 3 tbsp Fruity and delicious olive oil

Snacks

  • 1/2 cup Saltine cracker crumbs

Dairy

  • 1 1/4 cup Cheddar cheese, grated sharp
  • 1/4 cup Cheese, grated

Other

  • 1 Deep-dish 9-inch piecrust, baked and cooled

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the tomatoes thinly and place them in a colander to drain excess moisture. Sprinkle them with 1 teaspoon of salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, chop the basil leaves, green onions, and Italian parsley. Set aside.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated cheddar cheese, chopped herbs, pepper, and remaining salt. Mix well to combine.
  5. Pat the tomato slices dry with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture.
  6. Spread a layer of saltine cracker crumbs over the bottom of the baked pie crust.
  7. Arrange a layer of tomato slices over the cracker crumbs, slightly overlapping them.
  8. Spread half of the mayonnaise and cheese mixture over the tomato layer, ensuring it covers the tomatoes evenly.
  9. Repeat the layers with the remaining tomato slices and mayonnaise and cheese mixture.
  10. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the pie and sprinkle with grated cheese.
  11. Bake the tomato pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
  12. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Tomato Varieties: Experiment with different varieties of tomatoes, such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes, to add color and flavor variation to your pie.
  • Cheese Options: Feel free to mix and match cheeses according to your taste preferences. Gruyere, mozzarella, or feta cheese would all be delicious additions or substitutions.
  • Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have basil, green onions, or Italian parsley on hand, you can use other fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to add flavor to your pie.
  • Crust Alternatives: Instead of using a traditional pie crust, you can make a crustless version of this pie by omitting the pie crust altogether. Simply layer the tomatoes and cheese mixture in a baking dish and bake as directed.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this tomato pie ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the tomato pie ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

Q: Can I freeze leftover tomato pie? A: While you can freeze leftover tomato pie, the texture of the tomatoes may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe? A: Absolutely! You can use a store-bought deep-dish pie crust for convenience, or you can make your own homemade pie crust if preferred.

Keto Version

To make a keto-friendly version of this Summer Scrumptious Tomato Pie, you can substitute the saltine cracker crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the crust. Use full-fat mayonnaise and cheeses, and reduce or omit the salt to fit your dietary preferences.

Low-Carb Version

For a low-carb version, follow the instructions for the keto version and reduce the amount of tomatoes used in the pie. You can also use a low-carb substitute for the mayonnaise, such as Greek yogurt or sour cream, and opt for low-carb cheese options.

In conclusion, our Summer Scrumptious Tomato Pie is a celebration of the vibrant flavors of summer, showcasing the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs. With its flaky crust, creamy cheese filling, and colorful layers of tomatoes, this pie is a feast for the senses that will transport you to lazy summer days spent in the garden. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish, or a centerpiece for your summer table, this tomato pie is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients and savor the taste of summer with this delectable pie that embodies the essence of the season!