Southern Tomato Pie

A Southern Tomato Pie is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer with its fresh garden tomatoes and rich flavors. This pie is not only easy to prepare but also serves as a fantastic centerpiece for gatherings, from casual weeknight dinners to festive potlucks. The combination of creamy mayonnaise and cheesy goodness makes each bite irresistible, showcasing the best of Southern hospitality.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Bursting with Flavor: Fresh tomatoes combined with aromatic herbs create a flavorful experience that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it warm, at room temperature, or cold as a refreshing side dish or main course.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this pie is sure to impress friends and family alike with its delicious taste and presentation.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Southern Tomato Pie, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish or pie plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts of tomatoes and onions, which enhances the overall texture of your pie.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for mixing ingredients without spilling, keeping your prep area tidy.

Ingredients

For the Southern Tomato Pie, gather these fresh ingredients:

For the Pie Base:

• 1 nine-inch pie crust (frozen or homemade, not deep-dish)

For the Filling:

• 900 g tomatoes (cored, seeded, and chopped into ¾-inch pieces)
• 1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1.25 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 0.75 teaspoon sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded fontina cheese (divided)
• 0.33 cup grated Pecorino Romano

How to Make Southern Tomato Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture

In a large bowl:
1. Toss together chopped tomatoes, sliced onion, olive oil, salt, pepper, sugar, and thyme.
2. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs

Gently stir in chopped fresh basil into the tomato mixture for added flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Spread the tomato mixture evenly into the unbaked pie crust.

Step 5: Mix Mayonnaise and Cheese

In a separate small bowl:
1. Combine mayonnaise with half of the shredded fontina cheese until well mixed.

Step 6: Dollop on Top

Dollop the mayonnaise mixture over the top of the tomatoes for a creamy layer.

Step 7: Add Remaining Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining fontina cheese and grated Pecorino Romano over the top to create a cheesy crust.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in your preheated oven for 40-50 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and filling is bubbly.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Let stand for about 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow flavors to meld perfectly. Enjoy your Southern Tomato Pie!

How to Serve Southern Tomato Pie

Southern Tomato Pie is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or preparing a family meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette complements the richness of the pie.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky flavor that balances the pie’s creaminess.

Enjoy with Crispy Bread

• Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the pie.

Accompany with a Seasonal Fruit Platter

• A platter of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, or stone fruits adds a refreshing sweetness to the meal.

How to Perfect Southern Tomato Pie

To make sure your Southern Tomato Pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes provide the best flavor. Look for tomatoes that are firm but slightly soft to the touch.

• Drain Excess Moisture: After chopping your tomatoes, drain them in a colander to remove excess water. This prevents a soggy crust.

• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality fontina and Pecorino Romano cheese for richer flavor and better melting texture.

• Let it Rest: Allowing the pie to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking helps set the filling, making it easier to slice.

Best Side Dishes for Southern Tomato Pie

When planning your meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with Southern Tomato Pie. They add variety and balance to your dining experience.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the pie.

2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and lemon dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pie.

3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall meal experience.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy create a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.

5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a sweet pop of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the tomato pie.

6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs offers a light side dish that absorbs accompanying flavors well.

7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and spices make an eye-catching side dish full of flavor.

8. Caprese Skewers: Easy-to-make skewers featuring mozzarella balls, basil leaves, and cherry tomatoes bring freshness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Southern Tomato Pie, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using the wrong type of tomatoes – Not all tomatoes are created equal. Choose ripe garden tomatoes for the best flavor, rather than using canned or unripe varieties.
• Skipping the salting step – Failing to salt the tomato mixture can result in a watery pie. Be sure to salt the tomatoes and let them sit briefly to draw out excess moisture.
• Overloading on cheese – While cheese adds creaminess, too much can overpower the delicate tomato flavor. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
• Not letting it rest – Cutting into your pie too soon can lead to a messy slice. Allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving for cleaner slices.
• Ignoring crust quality – A soggy crust can ruin your pie. Ensure your crust is pre-baked slightly if using a homemade version, or choose a high-quality frozen one.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Southern Tomato Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place pieces of parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Southern Tomato Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Southern Tomato Pie

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake slices for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power in 30-second increments until warm.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Southern Tomato Pie that might help you out.

Can I use other types of cheese in Southern Tomato Pie?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors!

What is the best way to serve Southern Tomato Pie?

Southern Tomato Pie is delicious served warm as a main dish or at room temperature as part of a buffet or potluck.

How long does Southern Tomato Pie last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Southern Tomato Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Is there a vegetarian version of Southern Tomato Pie?

Yes! The recipe is naturally vegetarian; just ensure all ingredients like mayonnaise are plant-based.

Final Thoughts

Southern Tomato Pie is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. It makes a wonderful centerpiece at any gathering and can easily be customized with different herbs or vegetables according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your family and friends!