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To make a great Southern tomato pie, you need simple yet fresh ingredients. Here’s what you should gather: - 2 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup mayonnaise - 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped - 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard - Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste - 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade) - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 1 tablespoon cornmeal (optional, for crust texture) These ingredients combine for a rich and creamy flavor. The tomatoes bring a juicy freshness, while the cheeses add a melty goodness. For the best taste, choose tomatoes that are ripe and flavorful. I recommend: - Heirloom tomatoes for their sweet and complex flavor - Beefsteak tomatoes for their large size and meaty texture - Roma tomatoes for their firmness and low moisture Using a mix of these varieties can elevate your dish. Each type adds its unique taste and texture to the pie. Seasoning is key to enhance the flavors in your pie. Besides salt and pepper, consider adding: - Garlic powder for a hint of depth - Crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat - Grated Parmesan cheese for a salty finish For toppings, you might want to sprinkle some extra cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or more basil. These small touches can make your Southern tomato pie even more special. You can find the Full Recipe for more details on preparation and baking! Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This makes sure the oven is hot when you bake. Next, take your pie crust. If you bought it, place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Press it into the edges to fit well. If you made your own, roll out the dough to fit the dish. For a better crust, you can sprinkle cornmeal on the bottom. This helps the crust stay crisp and adds a nice texture. Now, let’s prep the tomatoes. Slice your fresh tomatoes thinly. This helps them cook evenly. Sprinkle a bit of salt on the slices and let them sit in a colander for 10-15 minutes. This step is key. It helps draw out extra moisture. With less water, your pie won’t get soggy. In a large bowl, combine the filling. Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese. Then, mix in 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of chopped basil, and 1/4 cup of green onions. Don’t forget to add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is creamy and well mixed. This mix will bring a rich flavor to your pie. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy making your Southern Tomato Pie! Choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Look for firm, slightly soft tomatoes with deep color. Varieties like heirloom, vine-ripened, or beefsteak work well. They bring sweetness and tang to your pie. Avoid tomatoes that feel mushy or have dark spots. Fresh, local tomatoes often taste best. To keep your pie from getting soggy, it’s key to remove excess moisture. After slicing your tomatoes, sprinkle them with salt and let them drain in a colander. This step helps draw out water. You can also sprinkle cornmeal in the pie crust. This adds texture and absorbs moisture. Serve your Southern Tomato Pie warm or at room temperature. A fresh green salad pairs nicely with the pie. You can also add a drizzle of balsamic reduction for extra flavor. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves. This makes each slice pop with color and taste. For the full recipe, check out the Southern Tomato Pie Delight section. {{image_4}} You can easily add protein to your Southern tomato pie. Try cooked bacon or diced ham for a smoky flavor. Cooked chicken or shrimp also works well. Simply layer the protein between the tomatoes and cheese. This makes the dish heartier and even more satisfying. If you want a vegetarian pie, skip the meat and focus on fresh veggies. Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For a vegan twist, use vegan cheese and mayo. You can also replace regular pie crust with a plant-based one. This keeps the dish light while still being tasty. Get creative with toppings to make your pie shine. Try adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a crunchy top. You can also use sliced olives or jalapeños for some heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can brighten up the flavor. Finally, a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving adds a touch of sweetness. For the full recipe, check out the Southern Tomato Pie Delight! After enjoying your Southern Tomato Pie, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place slices in an airtight container. This keeps the pie fresh for up to three days. If you notice excess moisture, place a paper towel in the container to absorb it. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of pie on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the crust crispy. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This method is quick but may make the crust softer. You can freeze Southern Tomato Pie for longer storage. Wrap the whole pie or slices tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag or container. This keeps the pie fresh for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven for best results. Yes, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Look for whole, peeled tomatoes. Drain them well to avoid excess moisture. Fresh tomatoes give better flavor, but canned can work fine if necessary. Just remember to season them to enhance their taste. Southern Tomato Pie pairs well with a fresh side salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the pie's richness. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables or a simple pasta dish. These sides balance the flavors and add variety to your meal. To make this recipe gluten-free, choose a gluten-free pie crust. Many stores sell ready-made gluten-free options. You can also make a crust using almond flour or gluten-free oats. Just ensure all your other ingredients, like cheese and spices, are gluten-free as well. Enjoy your pie without worry! Southern Tomato Pie is a delicious dish full of ripe tomatoes and savory flavor. You learned how to choose the best ingredients, prepare the pie, and avoid sogginess. The tips for variations and storage help you enjoy it longer. Feel free to be creative! This pie can fit many diets and tastes. Whether you share it with friends or enjoy it solo, it’s sure to impress. With this recipe in hand, you’re ready to whip up your own Southern Tomato Pie masterpiece!

Southern Tomato Pie

Discover the mouthwatering Southern Tomato Pie Delight that will elevate your next meal! Juicy tomatoes, rich cheeses, and fresh herbs combine in a flaky crust for a flavorful dish everyone will love. Follow our easy step-by-step guide to create this delicious pie perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner. Click through to explore the full recipe and impress your family and friends with this delightful Southern classic!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped

1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon cornmeal (optional, for crust texture)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking the pie.

    Prepare the Pie Crust: If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, carefully place it in a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it into the edges. If you're making your own, roll out the dough to fit the pie plate. Optionally, sprinkle cornmeal on the crust’s bottom to create a delightful texture that also helps absorb moisture.

      Prep the Tomatoes: Thinly slice the fresh tomatoes and lightly sprinkle them with salt. Allow the slices to rest in a colander for about 10-15 minutes; this step helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring your pie doesn’t become soggy.

        Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped basil, green onions, and Dijon mustard. Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and creamy.

          Assemble the Pie: Begin layering by placing half of the drained tomato slices evenly at the bottom of the pie crust. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the tomatoes. Repeat the process with the remaining tomato slices and then layer the rest of the cheese mixture on top.

            Drizzle with Olive Oil: To enhance the flavors and add moisture, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the top of the assembled pie.

              Bake: Carefully place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and bubbly.

                Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the filling set, making for cleaner slices. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best enjoyment.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: For a charming display, serve the pie on a rustic wooden board. Garnish each slice with fresh basil leaves and accompany with a vibrant side salad to create a colorful and inviting meal.