Description of this Recipe This Tomato Cheese Pie is a savory masterpiece that celebrates the vibrant flavors of summer. Imagine a flaky, golden-brown crust cradling layers of sweet heirloom tomatoes, melted spicy cheddar, and nutty gouda, all infused with aromatic garlic and thyme. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. The subtle sweetness of fig preserves spread on the crust adds a layer of depth, complementing the savory elements in a way that’s unexpected yet incredibly delightful. This pie is a showstopper perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, promising a delightful experience with every slice.
Why You Will Love This Recipe This Tomato Cheese Pie is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. You’ll love it because it’s:
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of juicy heirloom tomatoes, sharp cheddar, creamy gouda, fragrant thyme, and pungent garlic creates an explosion of flavors that will awaken your senses.
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive presentation, this pie is surprisingly simple to put together. With just a few steps, you can create a stunning dish that will impress your friends and family.
- Versatile: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a satisfying meal, this Tomato Cheese Pie is the perfect choice.
- Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors of the tomatoes, the golden-brown crust, and the fresh basil garnish make this pie a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, herbs, and spices to create your own unique version of this recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- Salt and black pepper
- 1 large pie crust round
- 2 tablespoons fig preserves/jam
- 2 cups cubed spicy cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cubed gouda, gruyere, fontina, or a mix
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 6-8 cloves garlic, chopped
- Chili flakes
- Fresh basil, for serving
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the pie crust doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Arrange the tomato slices on a cutting board and sprinkle generously with salt. Let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This is a crucial step because removing excess moisture prevents the pie from becoming soggy. After 15 minutes, blot the tomatoes dry with paper towels.
Step 3: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped fresh thyme, minced garlic, and a pinch of chili flakes. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. This aromatic mixture will infuse the pie with a delightful savory essence.
Step 4: Lay the pie crust on the prepared baking sheet. Prick the bottom and sides all over with a fork. This prevents the crust from puffing up unevenly during baking. Spread the fig preserves evenly over the dough, leaving a ¼-inch border. The fig preserves add a touch of sweetness that complements the savory ingredients beautifully.
Step 5: Top the fig preserves with half of the cubed spicy cheddar cheese, followed by half of the cubed gouda (or your cheese mix). Sprinkle half of the garlic and thyme mixture evenly over the cheese. Layer half of the tomato slices on top of the cheese and garlic mixture.
Step 6: Repeat the layering process: top with the remaining cheese cubes, the remaining garlic and thyme mixture, and the remaining tomato slices. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 7: Gently fold the edge of the dough over the tomatoes, creating a rustic-looking crust. This seals in the filling and adds a charming touch to the pie.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the pie during the last 15 minutes to prevent the crust from burning. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil.
Step 9: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to slice.
Step 10: Garnish with lots of fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of sea salt before serving. The fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that perfectly complements the savory pie.
COOKING Rating: Easy to Medium
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as a main course or side dish.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing meal.
- Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or rosé.
- Enjoy as a delicious appetizer at your next gathering.
Tips:
- Use high-quality heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the step of salting and blotting the tomatoes, as this prevents the pie from becoming soggy.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- For a more intense garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves before chopping them.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values, may vary depending on ingredients used)
Calories: Approximately 400-450 per slice Protein: 15-20 grams per slice Sodium: 400-500mg per slice
Conclusion
This Tomato Cheese Pie is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple, flavorful cooking. The combination of sweet tomatoes, savory cheese, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that is both satisfying and elegant. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly rewarding. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process of making this pie as much as you enjoy eating it! The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – feel free to adapt it to your own taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you add more vegetables, switch up the cheeses, or use a gluten-free crust, the possibilities are endless.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I use store-bought pie crust?
A: Absolutely! While homemade pie crust is always a treat, using a store-bought pie crust is a great time-saver and works perfectly well in this recipe. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand and thaw it properly before using.
Q2: What if I don’t have heirloom tomatoes?
A: No problem! While heirloom tomatoes add a unique flavor and visual appeal, you can easily substitute them with regular tomatoes, such as Roma or beefsteak tomatoes. Just make sure they are ripe and flavorful.
Q3: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time, but it’s best to bake it just before serving. You can assemble the pie and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. However, keep in mind that the crust may become slightly soggy if it sits for too long.
Q4: Can I freeze this pie?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze this pie after it’s been baked, as the texture of the tomatoes and cheese may change. However, you can freeze the unbaked pie for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Q5: What other vegetables can I add to this pie?
A: Feel free to get creative with your vegetable additions! Some great options include sautéed onions, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just make sure to pre-cook any vegetables that contain a lot of moisture to prevent the pie from becoming soggy.
