Tomato Pie: The Tastiest Way to Eat Your Veggies

Tomato pie is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the crispy perfection of a golden-brown crust and the juicy, sun-kissed delight of ripe tomatoes. This dish, topped with a cheesy, herb-infused filling, is a flavor symphony that dances on your tongue! What I like about it is that it is ideal for turning any gathering into a celebration, whether it's a holiday party or a casual family dinner. It's both simple and enjoyable to prepare, making it ideal for rushed weeknights or leisurely weekends!

So, are you ready to make your next meal unforgettable? Here is everything you need to know to make this delicious tomato pie!

TOTAL PREPARATION TIME: 1 Hour 20 minutes
SERVINGS: 7-8 servings
COURSE: Lunch & Dinner

Is Tomato Pie Healthy?

You can taste the delicious flavors of tomato pie, and it's also good for you in many ways. Lycopene, which is found in large amounts in tomatoes, is a strong antioxidant that may lower the risk of some cancers and heart disease. 

Tomatoes also have a lot of vitamins A and C, along with lycopene. Vitamin C is important for skin health and immune defense, and vitamin A helps your eyesight and immune system work well. Tomatoes also have potassium, which helps keep blood pressure in check and is good for heart health.

Aside from that, you can get more calcium and protein from the cheeses in this recipe. We all know that calcium is important for keeping bones and teeth strong, and protein helps muscles stay healthy and the body heal itself. Fresh basil, which is another important ingredient, adds more vitamins and antioxidants to the dish, making it even healthier!

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 6 ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
• ½ onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon crushed garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dough:

• 500 g plain flour
• 250 g cold butter, cut into small cubes
• 100 ml cold water

How to Make Tomato Pie?

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine 500 g of plain flour with a pinch of salt. Next, incorporate the cold butter. Cut 250 g of butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Pour 100 ml of cold water into it, stirring gently to combine. Use your hands to press the dough together until it holds. Flatten the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for 10 minutes to chill.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

While the dough chills, prepare your baking pan. Grease a 9-inch baking pan with butter or oil. Once the dough is chilled, roll it out on a piece of nonstick paper until it’s large enough to line the pan, aiming for a thickness of about 6 mm. Transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared pan, pressing it gently into the sides and bottom. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. Refrigerate the lined pan for 15 minutes to help the dough maintain its shape during baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomatoes

While the dough is chilling, prepare the tomatoes. Arrange the sliced tomatoes in a colander in a single layer and sprinkle them with 1 tablespoon of salt. Let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterwards, use a paper towel to dry the tomato slices, removing as much excess juice as possible. Set the tomatoes aside for later use.

Step 4: Pre-Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chilled pan from the refrigerator. To prevent bubbling, lightly prick the bottom and sides of the dough with a fork. Cover the dough with a sheet of aluminium foil and fill it with weights, such as dried beans or rice, to keep the foil in place and maintain the shape of the dough during baking. Bake the crust for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, carefully remove the foil and weights. Set the crust aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil, ½ finely chopped onion, and 1 teaspoon of crushed garlic. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then mix everything until well combined.

Step 6: Assemble the Pie

To assemble the pie, start by layering the sliced tomatoes evenly over the pre-baked crust. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the tomatoes. Repeat with another layer of tomatoes, followed by the remaining cheese mixture. Smooth out the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.

Step 7: Bake the Pie

Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. The pie is done when the cheese is bubbly, and the crust is golden brown. Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This cooling period helps the filling set, making it easier to cut clean slices.

Is It Okay to Eat Tomato Pie Every Day?

While tomato pie is indeed a nutritious and flavorful option, eating it every day might not be the best choice for everyone. Here’s why moderation is key:

1. Caloric Content Tomato pie can be high in calories due to the cheese and butter in the crust. Daily consumption could lead to excessive calorie intake, contributing to weight gain if not balanced with physical activity.
2. Sodium Levels The recipe includes salt and cheese, which can contribute to higher sodium levels. Excessive sodium intake can lead to health issues such as hypertension. It’s important to monitor your overall sodium consumption, especially if you have concerns about blood pressure.
3. Balanced Diet A varied diet is essential for meeting all your nutritional needs. While tomato pie is a tasty treat, it should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet that includes a wide range of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains. This diversity ensures you get a broad spectrum of nutrients for optimal health.

Zulay's Final Thoughts

There is something delicious and satisfying about tomato pie. The crust is perfectly baked, and the tomatoes and cheese make the dish rich and savory. Not only does it taste great, but it's also good for you in many ways- it's high in antioxidants like lycopene and full of vitamins and minerals your body needs. You can eat it as a treat or as part of a healthy diet, but remember that moderation is key, especially since it has a lot of calories and sodium!

Share Your Tomato Pie Experience!

We’d love to hear from you! Have you tried this tomato pie recipe? How did it turn out? Share your thoughts and any variations you made in the comments below. If you have any questions or need more recipe ideas, let us know!

Discover More Delicious Recipes

For more culinary inspiration, check out our other blog posts. From comforting casseroles to sweet treats, we have a variety of recipes to suit every taste and occasion.

Spread the Joy of Cooking!

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