This Easy Heirloom Tomato Pie is a slice of summer on your plate! With juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy cheese, and a buttery crust, it’s a delightful dish.
Honestly, every bite is a burst of flavor! I love serving it warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s a great way to enjoy those garden-fresh tomatoes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heirloom Tomatoes: These tomatoes are key for flavor and color. You can use any ripe tomatoes if heirlooms aren’t available, like beefsteak or Roma. Just remember, different types can offer a different taste and texture.
Cheeses: I love the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan for a creamy, rich flavor. If you’re dairy-free, you can try nut-based cheese or a vegan cream cheese. They won’t taste the same but will still work towards a unique flavor.
Pie Crust: A pre-made crust saves time, but if you have a favorite homemade recipe, use that! For a healthier option, consider a whole wheat or almond flour crust. Gluten-free versions can also be found at the store.
How Do You Prevent a Soggy Tomato Pie?
To keep your pie crust from getting soggy, salting the tomatoes is essential. The salt helps draw out moisture, which is important! Here’s the process in simple steps:
- After slicing, sprinkle salt on the tomatoes and let them sit for about 15 minutes.
- Pat them dry gently with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
- Pre-bake your crust for a few minutes to form a barrier before adding the filling.
Doing these steps ensures your pie stays crispy and delicious! Plus, take care not to pack the tomatoes too tightly in the pie for better air circulation during baking.
Easy Heirloom Tomato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade pie crust)
- 3 large heirloom tomatoes (mix of red and yellow), sliced about 1/4 inch thick
- 1 teaspoon salt (for tomatoes)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced, plus extra for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes total to bake, including pre-baking the crust. You’ll have a delicious and beautiful pie ready to enjoy in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the stage for a perfectly baked pie!
2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
Lay out the heirloom tomato slices on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After that, gently pat them dry with additional towels to avoid a soggy pie.
3. Pre-bake the Crust:
Fit your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges as desired. Pre-bake the crust in the oven for about 8-10 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Once done, take it out and let it cool slightly.
4. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and sliced basil. Stir everything together until well combined and creamy!
5. Assemble the Pie:
Spread the delicious cheese mixture evenly over the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust. Arrange the tomato slices on top, overlapping them slightly if needed for a beautiful presentation.
6. Season and Drizzle:
Drizzle some olive oil over the tomatoes for added flavor and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This cooling time lets the filling set a bit more.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with additional fresh basil before slicing and serving. Enjoy your beautiful and delicious Easy Heirloom Tomato Pie!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While heirloom tomatoes provide great flavor and color, feel free to substitute with any ripe tomatoes like beefsteak, Roma, or even cherry tomatoes. Just remember that flavor and sweetness may vary with different varieties!
How Do I Store Leftover Tomato Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices, but the crust may not be as crispy.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a change or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt, ricotta cheese, or a vegan cream cheese. Just ensure your substitute is thick enough to hold the filling together!
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the pie ahead! Assemble it up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. It may need a few additional minutes in the oven if it’s chilled.
