Mouth-Watering Tomato Vegetable Pie Recipe
In the South, there is nothing quite like a warm, hearty tomato vegetable pie. This classic dish has become a staple in Southern cuisine and for good reason – it’s absolutely delicious. It’s creamy, savory, and packed full of mouth-watering flavors that will leave you wanting more.
As a chef specializing in Southern-style cuisine, I have always been drawn to the unique blend of bold flavors and ingredients that make up classic Southern dishes. That’s why I’m excited to share my take on this beloved recipe with you – the Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie Recipe.
If you’re a tomato lover, then this recipe is the perfect way to showcase the natural sweetness and juicy texture of fresh tomatoes. But don’t be fooled – this dish is so much more than just tomatoes. It’s also loaded with garden vegetables like artichokes, spinach, and yellow squash that add depth and complexity to the flavor.
But perhaps the best thing about this dish is how easy it is to customize to your liking. Whether you want to add bacon for a smoky twist or switch up the cheese for something new, this recipe can be adapted based on your personal taste preferences.
So whether you are looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive party dish that will wow your guests, the Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie Recipe is sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Picture this: a luscious pie crust filled with fresh plum tomatoes, juicy artichokes and yellow squash. The aroma of crispy bacon and sautéed garlic filling the room. Isn’t it mouth-watering? Well, this Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie recipe is everything you’ve ever wanted in a savory pie!
This pie has that perfect balance of tangy, creamy and salty flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more. The fresh basil adds an earthy touch while the grated cheddar cheese brings in the right amount of sharpness. And what’s best? It is super easy to make.
If you’re looking for a healthier take on classic tomato pie, look no further than this recipe right here. With reduced-fat mayonnaise and cheese, you can indulge in this delicious creamy pie without feeling too guilty.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile! You can opt-out some of the vegetables or add more if you like – experiment with different flavor combinations and see what works best for you. Plus, with all these fresh veggies in one dish – it’s a perfect dish to impress your vegetarian friends.
The next time you’re craving something comforting and hearty, whip up this Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie in no time, with simple ingredients found in your pantry. Trust me – you’ll be coming back to this recipe again and again!
Ingredient List
This recipe for Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie is a delightful dish that you can quickly whip up and serve to your family or friends any day of the week. Here are the ingredients you will need:
- 1 (9-inch) pie crust, thawed
- 2 pounds of medium-large heirloom tomatoes, sliced 1/2-inch thick
- 2 small yellow squash, sliced 1/2-inch thick
- 3 pounds of fresh chopped tomatoes
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 teaspoons of dry crushed red pepper
- 4 large fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme leaves with stems removed
- Salt (divided – kosher salt and pinch of regular salt)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
- 2 cups grated reduced-fat cheese (Italian or cheddar cheese)
- A handful of sliced green onions for garnish.
Make sure you have all the ingredients before starting because it’s essential to get everything right before completing this Southern tomato pie recipe.
The Recipe How-To
Now, it’s time to get started on making this delicious Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie recipe. Don’t worry, the steps are easy to follow and won’t take too much time. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Take out a 9-inch pie dish or baking dish and lightly coat it with cooking spray. Then, unroll the pie crust and cover the bottom of the dish. Trim the excess edges that hang over.
Step 2: Cook Bacon
Chop 6 slices of bacon into small pieces and cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they’re browned and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pan and place them onto a plate lined with paper towels to cool.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat it up. Add 2 thinly sliced green onions and 1 minced garlic clove, sauté it for about a minute or until fragrant. Then add ½ cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained, 1 small yellow squash, sliced into rounds, 6 quartered artichoke hearts, drained well and patted dry, continue cooking for another minute.
Step 4: Layer Crust
Next, layer the cooked vegetables evenly over the bottom of the pie crust in the baking dish.
Step 5: Add Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Italian blend), ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon dry crushed red pepper. Pour this mixture over the vegetables in the dish.
Step 6: Top with Tomatoes
Now it’s time for the star ingredient, the tomatoes. Slice 2 large plum tomatoes and arrange them on top of the cheese mixture in whatever pattern you desire. Layer the slices until the cheese is covered.
Step 7: Add Seasonings
For seasoning, sprinkle 2 teaspoons of fresh chopped basil and 1 teaspoon of fresh chopped thyme over the tomatoes.
Step 8: Bake
Pop the pie dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
Step 9: Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for ten minutes before serving. Cut into wedges and serve this Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie with a side salad to complete your meal.
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to recipe variations, the possibilities are endless. Whether you want to switch things up a bit or you need to make substitutions to fit your dietary needs, there are plenty of options available for this Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie Recipe.
First off, if bacon isn’t your thing, feel free to omit it or substitute it with other protein sources such as turkey bacon or diced ham. For a vegetarian option, you can add roasted mushrooms or seared tofu for added flavor and texture.
If you’re in the mood for a cheesy treat, go ahead and swap out the cheddar cheese for another type of cheese like provolone or mozzarella. To make it an even healthier option without sacrificing taste, use reduced-fat cheese.
For those who don’t like mayonnaise, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute without altering the recipe’s taste significantly. You can also switch out mayonnaise entirely with sour cream or cottage cheese.
This recipe also allows for flexibility when it comes to vegetables. If you can’t find artichoke hearts or yellow squash, try adding zucchini or bell peppers instead. You can also incorporate other seasonal vegetables like corn, carrots, and green beans to create your own version of the dish.
Lastly, if you want a gluten-free version of this recipe, simply replace the pie crust with a gluten-free option that is readily available at supermarkets or specialty stores.
With all these ingredients changes and variations available for this Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie Recipe, feel free to experiment and create a perfect pie that suits your personal taste preferences!
Serving and Pairing
Serving the Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie is a delightful indulgence to the taste buds. This mouth-watering dish is best served warm and fresh out of the oven, and can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish. The tomato and vegetable pie dish is an ideal centerpiece for elegant dinners, potlucks or gatherings with friends and family.
Pair this delicious Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie with a crisp toss salad, pickled vegetables or even grilled meats for a well-rounded meal that packs a flavorful punch. It also pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, grilled shrimp or salmon, making it an ideal choice for summer barbecues and outdoor dining.
For those who prefer refreshing beverages to match their meals, cold beer or white wine would be an excellent choice. Alternatively, you can opt for your favorite homemade cocktail to heighten your dining experience. A glass of iced tea would also serve as a cooling accompaniment that goes well with this flavorful pie.
Indulge in this southern-style vegetable pie recipe that is sure to satisfy any appetite. The combinations of sweet tomatoes, hearty vegetables and sharp cheddar cheese create an irresistible flavor profile that will not disappoint. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or hosting a family get-together, this dish will impress even the most discerning taste buds.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As a busy chef, I know that prepping ahead can be a great time-saver. Luckily, this Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated later. If you’re planning to prepare the dish in advance, simply follow the recipe up until the baking step. At this point, cover the unbaked pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
Once you’re ready to bake the pie, let it sit at room temperature for around 30 minutes before putting it in the oven. This will help it cook evenly throughout. Bake for approximately 50 minutes or until fully cooked and golden brown on top.
If you have leftovers, no worries! You can store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the desired amount of pie in a microwave-safe dish and heat up for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can put the pie in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s warmed through and crispy around the edges.
One thing to note is that some moisture may accumulate at the bottom of the pie when stored overnight or longer. If this happens, use a paper towel to lightly dab away any excess liquid before reheating.
With these tips, you can prepare this delicious Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie recipe ahead of time without sacrificing flavor or texture. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or those unexpected guests that always pop by!
Tips for Perfect Results
As a chef, achieving the perfect result in a recipe is always my goal. When making southern tomato vegetable pie, there are several things to keep in mind to ensure that the end product is nothing short of spectacular. Here are my tips to help you make the best pie possible:
1. Blind bake the crust – Blind baking your crust helps prevent it from becoming soggy when filled with the juicy tomato and vegetable mixture. To blind bake your crust, line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil and fill it with baking weights or dried beans. Bake it for 8-10 minutes before filling it.
2. Slice the vegetables thinly – Slicing the vegetables thinly ensures that they cook evenly, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful pie.
3. Drain excess liquid from the vegetables – Once you slice and season your vegetables, let them sit for twenty minutes, then drain off any excess liquid they produce. This will prevent the pie from becoming runny.
4. Use high-quality cheese – The cheese is an essential component of this dish as it adds flavor and texture. I recommend using a well-aged cheddar cheese or an Italian blend.
5. Add fresh herbs – Fresh basil and thyme add brightness to this dish, use them chopped as carefully proportioned measure for maximum effect.
By following these tips, you can make an unforgettable Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie with a wonderfully cooked crust, flavorful fillings, and overall satisfaction for those eating it!
FAQ
As the Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie Recipe becomes more popular, I have received many questions from readers who want to make this dish. In this section, I will address some of the most common FAQs and provide you with detailed answers. Whether you are a novice cook or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you achieve success in making this delicious vegetable pie. So, let’s dive in!
Is tomato pie southern or italian?
Originating from Southern Italy, this recipe features a pizza without cheese. A regional specialty, Sicilian pizza traditionally includes tomatoes and olives. However, as the recipe traveled across the Atlantic, it underwent a few changes and was eventually dubbed “tomato pie.”
What is a Philadelphia tomato pie?
If you’re a lover of tomatoes, you simply can’t resist the savory and thick tomato sauce-like topping on a Philadelphia-style tomato pie. This dish may be called a “pie,” but it’s more like a cheeseless pizza with a chewy and thick focaccia crust.
What is a tomato pie Pennsylvania?
One scrumptious dish that is similar to pizza and hails from Sicilian cuisine is the tomato pie. This hearty dish features a thick, sponge-like bread base called sfincione palermitano, which is topped with tomato sauce and a generous sprinkling of cheese. It can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Is tomato pie a New York thing?
Before diving into the details of this recipe, it’s important to note that Utica Style Tomato Pie is not your typical pizza or Southern-style quiche. This specific dish hails from Utica, New York, and my mom’s recipe version stays true to its authentic roots.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress your taste buds. With its delicious combination of ripe tomatoes, veggies, cheese, and bacon, you simply can’t go wrong with this savory pie. The recipe is easy to follow and offers many variations and substitutions depending on your preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a healthier tomato pie recipe or a classic Southern tomato pie, this recipe has got you covered. You can enjoy it for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and even use it as a side dish for an outdoor barbecue or potluck party.
Invest in the best quality ingredients to ensure the flavors shine through—the fresher the produce and dairy, the better. Take my advice and try serving it warm with a generous scoop of sour cream or fresh salsa on top. I guarantee that it will be a hit with everyone who tries it!
So what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and get baking! With this recipe in hand, you’ll be able to create an unforgettable tomato pie that your friends and family will love. Don’t forget to share the recipe with others who might appreciate it—happy cooking!
Southern Tomato Vegetable Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 plum tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 slices bacon, thick
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
- 4 ounces cheese, Italian six cheese blend
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup artichoke, canned, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 garlic clove, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dry crushed red pepper
- 1 (9 inch) pie crusts, frozen, and unbaked
Instructions
- Cut tomatoes into 1/2 inch slices.Place on paper towel lined rack.Sprinkle tomatoes with salt. Let stand 20 minutes. Pat dry.
- with paper towel.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cook bacon in a large skillet over.
- medium high heat 8 to 10 minutes or until crisp; remove bacon and.
- drain on paper towels. Crumble bacon.
- Drain spinach well, pressing between paper towels. Combine spinach.
- bacon, and next seven ingredients in a large bowl until combined.
- Spread 1/4 of spinach mixture on bottom of piecrust.
- Layer with 1/2 of the tomatoe slices;top with half of remaining spinach.
- mixture. Repeat layers once.Cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake pie covered, at 375 degrees for 30 minutes.Uncover and Bake 20 to 25minutes.Let stand 10 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Enjoy this delicious pie!