Heirloom Tomato Pie Recipe
My green-thumb neighbors like to share produce with me. I return the delicious favor by baking tomato pies for all.
My green-thumb neighbors like to share produce with me. I return the delicious favor by baking tomato pies for all.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- filling:
- 1/4 cup cold butter cubed
- 3/4 teaspoon salt divided
- 1-1/2 cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese softened
- 1/8 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh marjoram
- 5 bacon strips cooked and crumbled
- 1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
- 1-1/4 pounds heirloom tomatoes (about 4 medium) cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 1/2 cup loosely packed basil leaves thinly sliced
- 1 to 2 tablespoons half-and-half cream
- Carbohydrate 10.4172127193756 g
- Cholesterol 15.2650000129043 mg
- Fat 5.95910229667751 g
- Fiber 1.07222081193606 g
- Protein 2.01466875152038 g
- Saturated Fat 3.6769990447721 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (75g)
- Sodium 165.352041856933 mg
- Sugar 9.34499190743953 g
- Trans Fat 0.464615917055146 g
- Calories 101 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place tomato slices in a single layer on paper towels; sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Let stand 45 minutes. Pat dry.
- Meanwhile, place cheese, flour and remaining salt in a food processor; pulse until blended. Add butter; pulse until butter is the size of peas. While pulsing, add just enough cream to form moist crumbs.
- Press dough onto bottom and up sides of an ungreased 9-in. fluted tart pan with removable bottom. Gently press bacon into dough. Bake 20-22 minutes or until light brown. Cool on a wire rack.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, herbs and garlic powder until blended. Spread over crust. Top with tomato slices; sprinkle with pepper.
- Bake 35-40 minutes longer or until edges are golden brown and tomatoes are softened. Cool on a wire rack. Refrigerate leftovers.
My Heirloom Tomato Pie: A Taste of Summer
The aroma of baking tomatoes fills my kitchen, a scent that instantly transports me to sun-drenched gardens and lazy summer afternoons. This heirloom tomato pie isn't just a recipe; it's a celebration of the bounty of the season, a testament to the simple pleasures of sharing homegrown goodness. It all started with my generous neighbors, whose overflowing gardens always seem to yield more than they can possibly use. Their kindness inspired me to create something special, something that would reciprocate their generosity and, more importantly, something delicious enough to share with everyone I know.
The secret to this pie lies in the quality of the ingredients. Using perfectly ripe, flavorful heirloom tomatoes is crucial. Their vibrant colors and unique tastes truly shine through in this dish. I love the way the different varieties add a depth of flavor and texture. Some are sweet, others are tangy, and some have a rich, almost earthy taste. This incredible variation is what sets this pie apart from a simple tomato pie. The crust, a simple yet elegant blend of cheddar cheese, flour, and butter, provides a perfect counterpoint to the juicy tomatoes. And don't even get me started on the herbs. Fresh marjoram and thyme, along with a hint of garlic, elevate the pie to a whole new level. It’s the kind of pie you'll want to savor every bite of – that special summer memory you will never forget.
But it's more than just the ingredients; it's the process, the act of creating something beautiful and delicious from simple, fresh ingredients. It's the feeling of satisfaction that comes from sharing your creation with loved ones. It's a recipe passed down, not just through generations, but through the shared bounty of the earth and the kindness of my gardening neighbors. It’s a reminder that the simplest things in life are often the most rewarding. This pie isn’t just a dish – it’s a story, a connection between people, and a celebration of the season’s gifts.
This heirloom tomato pie is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or simply a quiet evening at home. It's a recipe that has become a staple in my home, a dish that evokes feelings of warmth, community, and the simple joy of sharing a delicious meal with those you love. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility. You can experiment with different types of cheese, herbs, and even add other vegetables to the mix. Let your creativity flow, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Because in the end, it’s not just about the final product, but the journey of creating it – the sharing of laughter, the camaraderie in the kitchen, and the sweet satisfaction of creating something truly special.
So, gather your ingredients, invite your friends and family, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. Remember, the true magic of cooking lies not just in the recipe itself, but in the love and care that you put into it. It's a recipe for a slice of summer, a taste of friendship, and a memory that will surely last a lifetime.
From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy this heirloom tomato pie as much as I do.
