This delightful heirloom tomato pie features juicy tomatoes and a flaky crust that simply melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect mix of fresh flavors and comfort food!
Every time I make this pie, my kitchen smells amazing! It’s a fun way to use up those summer tomatoes. Plus, it’s so easy, even my cat couldn’t resist giving it a sniff! 🐱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heirloom Tomatoes: These tomatoes add a rich flavor and nice color. If you can’t find heirloom, look for ripe beefsteak or vine-ripened tomatoes instead. Better yet, mix up different varieties for texture and taste.
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar and Parmesan give a great flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast can also provide that cheesy flavor in a healthy way!
Mayonnaise: This provides creaminess and moisture. You can use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or even a vegan mayo if you’d like a dairy-free option. It works surprisingly well!
Fresh Basil: It adds a burst of fresh aroma. If you don’t have basil, try parsley or thyme for a different but still great flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Pie Crust?
Getting that crust right is key! Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade, here are some tips:
- Make sure the crust is chilled before baking. If it’s too warm, it might shrink while baking.
- Pricking the bottom helps prevent bubbles. I like to make a few holes with a fork to let steam escape.
- If using a homemade crust, chill it for at least an hour before rolling it out for the best texture.
I always love to brush the edges with olive oil to get that perfect golden brown color. It gives the pie a nice touch!
Easy Heirloom Tomato Pie Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, about 9-inch)
- 3-4 large heirloom tomatoes (a mix of red and yellow), sliced
For the Filling:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Brushing:
- Olive oil for brushing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pie takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 35-40 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend around an hour, but the deliciousness will last a lot longer than that!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Use a fork to prick the bottom lightly to prevent bubbling during baking.
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and chopped basil. Stir it all together until you have a smooth, creamy filling.
4. Assemble the Pie:
Spread the cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of the pie crust. Then, take your sliced heirloom tomatoes and arrange them on top of the cheese layer, slightly overlapping to cover the surface nicely.
5. Season the Tomatoes:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the tomatoes, adjusting to your taste. This will help enhance their natural flavors!
6. Brush the Crust:
Lightly brush the edges of the pie crust with olive oil. This step will help achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish.
7. Bake the Pie:
Place your pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the pie cool for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to cut and serve. Before serving, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for that lovely touch!
Enjoy this savory, colorful pie warm or at room temperature as a delicious summery appetizer or light main dish! Bon appétit!
FAQs about Easy Heirloom Tomato Pie
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While heirloom tomatoes are delicious, you can substitute them with ripe beefsteak, vine-ripened, or even cherry tomatoes for a sweeter flavor. The key is to use juicy, ripe tomatoes for the best taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Tomato Pie?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave if you’re short on time!
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese filling and assemble the pie (without baking) a day in advance. Cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven to bake as instructed.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a substitute, Greek yogurt is a great option for a tangy flavor. You can also use sour cream or a vegan mayonnaise if you want to keep it dairy-free.
