Tomato Pie

Ingredients

To kick off your tomato pie adventure, gather the following ingredients:

• 4-5 large ripe tomatoes

• 1 Tbsp. olive oil

• 1/2 yellow onion (preferably Vidalia), diced

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• Kosher salt

• Fresh ground black pepper

• 8 basil leaves, chopped

• 1 tsp oregano

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 premade pie crust

  
  

With these items ready, you are set to embark on your tomato pie journey.

Preparing the Tomatoes

The first step is preparing the tomatoes. Slice the tomatoes and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Sprinkle salt evenly over them. This step is crucial; it helps draw out excess moisture and prevents your pie from becoming soggy. Allow the tomatoes to sit for at least 30 minutes.

For example, using 5 large tomatoes can yield about 2 to 3 cups of tomato slices, which is perfect for creating those delicious layers. Once the tomatoes have drained, you can move on to the next steps.

Sauté the Aromatics

While the tomatoes are draining, prepare the aromatic base for your pie. In a sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.

When the onions turn translucent and fragrant, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This combination of sautéed onions and garlic lays a flavorful foundation for your dish, promising an explosion of taste in each bite.

Creating the Mayo Mixture

In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise with half of the chopped basil, oregano, kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Blend these ingredients well until they are fully incorporated.

This creamy mixture acts as the glue that holds your tomato pie together while adding richness and flavor throughout. The mayonnaise will not only enhance taste, but it also helps create a luscious filling that contrasts with the tomato's acidity.

Assembling the Pie Layers

It's time to assemble your tomato pie. Start by placing a layer of drained tomato slices at the bottom of your premade pie crust.

Next, add one-third of the sautéed onion mixture, followed by one-third of the mayo mixture, and then one-third of the cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering process until you've used all your ingredients. Make sure your top layer consists of a generous amount of cheddar cheese – this will bubble and brown, making your pie look irresistible.

Baking the Tomato Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once your pie is assembled, carefully put it in the oven and bake for about 1 hour.

The aromas wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist! As the pie bakes, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a savory masterpiece that pairs perfectly with a light summer salad.

Final Touches

As the baking time nears completion, keep a close eye on your pie to ensure it doesn’t overcook. When it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes.

Right before serving, sprinkle the remaining chopped basil on top for a fresh finishing touch. This not only adds a burst of flavor but enhances the visual appeal of your dish, making it look gourmet.

Serving Suggestions

Tomato pie is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed hot, warm, or even at room temperature. It serves well as a side dish during family meals, a light lunch, or alongside a fresh green salad.

For those looking to make it a complete meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or a hearty vegetable soup. Feel free to experiment with other herbs or cheese types to cater to your taste. The charm of tomato pie lies in its adaptability, allowing you to personalize it to your heart's content.