Savory Southern Tomato Pie Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Are you ready to indulge in a slice of Southern comfort? This Savory Southern Tomato Pie combines juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and fresh herbs for a dish that’s bursting with flavor. I’ll guide you through easy steps to create this classic recipe at home. From choosing the perfect cheese to tips for a crispy crust, let’s dive into making this delightful pie that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Southern Tomato Pie
To make a great Southern tomato pie, gather these key ingredients:
– 3 large, juicy ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke’s for authenticity)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade, your choice)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
These ingredients work together to create a rich, savory pie. Ripe tomatoes give it a fresh taste, while the cheeses add a creamy texture.
Recommended Cheese Options
For the best flavor, I suggest using sharp cheddar and mozzarella. Sharp cheddar brings a bold taste. Mozzarella adds a nice stretch and creaminess. You can mix in other cheeses too, like gouda or Swiss, for unique flavors. Just remember to keep the total cheese amount around two cups.
Additional Herbs and Seasonings
Herbs and spices enhance the pie’s taste. Here are some options:
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Fresh thyme for an earthy touch
– Crushed red pepper for heat
Feel free to experiment with these herbs. They can add depth to your Southern tomato pie, making it more exciting.Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Tomatoes
Start by slicing three large, juicy ripe tomatoes. Lay them flat on a cutting board. Sprinkle one teaspoon of kosher salt over the slices. This draws out moisture and helps avoid a soggy pie. Let the slices sit in a colander for about 15 minutes. This makes the tomatoes less watery. After they rest, gently pat them dry with a paper towel. This is key for a great texture.
Making the Creamy Pie Base
In a medium bowl, combine half a cup of mayonnaise, one tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and half a teaspoon each of black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Mix well until smooth. This creamy base adds a rich flavor to your pie. It binds the ingredients and gives a lovely taste that pairs well with the tomatoes.
Assembling and Baking the Pie
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking for the pie.
2. Pre-bake the Pie Crust: Lay the pre-made pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Bake it in the oven for about 10 minutes. You want it to be lightly golden. This step helps keep the crust crispy.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Start with the tomato slices, laying them evenly across the crust. Spread half of your creamy mixture over the tomatoes. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. This builds flavor and texture in each bite.
4. Bake the Pie: Place the assembled pie in the oven for 30-35 minutes. Look for a bubbly, golden cheese topping. This is your sign that it’s ready.
5. Cool and Garnish: Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for about 10 minutes. This helps the pie set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
This Southern Tomato Pie brings together rich flavors and a crispy crust. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring a Crispy Crust
To get a crispy crust for your Southern Tomato Pie, start with a pre-baked crust. Pre-bake it for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This step helps firm up the bottom. You can also brush the crust lightly with olive oil before baking. This adds flavor and helps keep moisture away.
Avoiding a Soggy Pie
Soggy pie is a common issue with tomato pie. To avoid this, layer your tomatoes with salt first. Let them sit in a colander for about 15 minutes. This draws out extra moisture. After draining, pat them dry with paper towels. Using a mix of cheeses helps too. The cheese absorbs some moisture, keeping your pie firm.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas
Serve your Southern Tomato Pie warm or at room temperature. For a nice touch, slice it into wedges. Place each piece on a plate with a sprig of fresh basil on top. Pair it with a light salad on the side. A mix of greens dressed with lemon vinaigrette works well. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pie. For a fun twist, you can serve it with garlic bread. It’s a great way to soak up any extra juices.

Variations
Adding Other Vegetables and Meats
You can make Southern Tomato Pie even more tasty by adding other veggies and meats. Try adding sliced zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and flavor. You can also use cooked bacon or ham to add a savory twist. Just be sure to slice them thin so they cook evenly. Layer them between the tomatoes and cheese for a delicious blend.
Gluten-Free Pie Crust Options
If you need a gluten-free crust, don’t worry! You can find many ready-made gluten-free pie crusts at the store. You can also make your own using almond flour or coconut flour. These options give a nice flavor and texture. Just follow the package instructions or your favorite gluten-free pie crust recipe for best results.
Vegan Adaptations for Southern Tomato Pie
Want to make a vegan version? It’s easy! Replace the cheese with vegan cheese options. You can also swap out the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo. Silken tofu blended with some lemon juice can work too. These swaps keep the creamy texture while making the pie plant-based. You won’t miss the dairy in this delicious dish.Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To store your leftover Southern Tomato Pie, let it cool first. Place the pie in an airtight container. If you don’t have one, cover the pie with plastic wrap. This keeps the pie fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you like, you can also keep individual slices in small containers. This way, you can grab a slice anytime.
Reheating Tips for Optimal Taste
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie or slices on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Covering the pie helps keep it moist. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last few minutes.
How to Freeze Southern Tomato Pie
Freezing Southern Tomato Pie is easy and great for meal prep. First, let the pie cool completely. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This double wrap helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven as described above for the best taste.Enjoy your Southern Tomato Pie!
FAQs
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you want to swap out mayonnaise, you have some tasty options. Greek yogurt works great. It adds creaminess and a bit of tang. Sour cream is another choice and gives a rich flavor. You can also use a mix of cream cheese and milk for a thicker base. Each option will change the taste slightly, but they all work well.
Can I make Southern Tomato Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare your pie ahead of time. Make the pie, but do not bake it right away. Cover it and keep it in the fridge for up to a day. When you are ready, just bake it as directed. This way, you save time when serving guests.
What are traditional sides to serve with this dish?
Southern Tomato Pie pairs well with various sides. Here are some great options:
– A simple green salad for freshness
– Coleslaw for a crunchy side
– Cornbread for a classic Southern touch
– Roasted vegetables for added flavor
These sides balance the pie’s rich flavors and create a well-rounded meal.
Southern tomato pie blends juicy tomatoes, rich cheese, and fresh herbs. You learned how to prep tomatoes and make a creamy pie base. You now know tips for a crispy crust and ways to avoid sogginess. Variations let you add veggies, meats, or cater to dietary needs. Proper storage keeps leftovers fresh while reheating restores flavor. Embrace your own twists and enjoy this classic dish with friends or family. Dive into the joy of Southern cooking, and create something delicious!




![- 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges - 1 cup fresh blueberries, rinsed and drained - 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, and romaine) - 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled - 1/4 cup nuts (chopped pecans or walnuts) - 2 tablespoons honey - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste To make the Blueberry Peach Feta Salad, gather fresh produce first. Ripe peaches add sweetness. Fresh blueberries bring a burst of flavor. Mixed salad greens offer crunch and color. Thinly sliced red onion adds a mild bite. Next, you need dairy and nuts. Crumbled feta cheese gives a creamy texture. Choose chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch. Then, prepare the dressing ingredients. Honey provides natural sweetness. Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy touch. Extra-virgin olive oil brings richness. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance all flavors. Check the [Full Recipe] for more details! - Gently combine 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges, 1 cup fresh blueberries, and 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced, in a large bowl. This mix brings out sweet and savory notes. - Layer 4 cups of mixed salad greens on top, using a blend of arugula, spinach, and romaine. Be careful not to bruise the leaves. - Sprinkle 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese and 1/4 cup chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, over the greens. This adds creaminess and crunch. - Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over everything. This will tie all the flavors together. - Toss the salad gently to coat the ingredients. The goal is to mix without making it soggy. - Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. This step ensures the flavors pop. For more detailed instructions, check out the Full Recipe. Using local honey boosts the flavor of your dressing. It adds a rich sweetness that makes each bite delightful. Look for honey from nearby farms for the best taste. You also want to choose ripe peaches. They should feel soft but not mushy. Ripe peaches bring a natural sweetness that shines in your salad. When you bite into them, they should almost melt in your mouth. For a beautiful look, add extra fruit on top. A few blueberries or peach slices create a colorful display. You can also serve the salad in individual bowls. This adds an elegant touch and makes it easy for guests to enjoy. Each bowl can be topped with a little extra feta for a nice finish. You can adjust the sweetness or tang of your dressing. Changing the honey and vinegar ratios helps. If you want it sweeter, add more honey. If you prefer a tangy flavor, increase the balsamic vinegar. Adding fresh herbs like basil or mint can also enhance the taste. They add a burst of freshness that pairs well with the fruit. {{image_4}} You can swap peaches for other fruits. Try using strawberries or mango for a new twist. These fruits add sweetness and vibrant color. Seasonal fruits can also work well. Think of ripe cherries in summer or pears in fall. Each fruit brings its own flavor and texture. This keeps your salad fresh and exciting. Want to make this salad a meal? Add grilled chicken or shrimp. They pair well with the sweet fruit and tangy feta. For a vegetarian option, chickpeas are a great choice. They add protein and fiber, making the salad filling. This way, you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner. Experimenting with dressings can change the whole dish. Try different vinegars like apple cider or red wine vinegar. Each one gives a unique flavor. You can also create a creamy dressing using yogurt or buttermilk. This adds richness and pairs nicely with the salad's freshness. For the full recipe, you can check the link provided. To keep your Blueberry Peach Feta Salad fresh, store the components separately. This helps maintain their texture and flavor. Keep the greens in a dry, airtight container. Place the fruit in another container to avoid sogginess. Store the dressing in a small jar or bowl with a lid. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from mixing with the salad too soon. When stored properly, the salad can last about 2-3 days. The mixed greens will stay crisp for about a day, while the fruit will start to soften after that. Check for any signs of spoilage, like off smells or discoloration. If the salad looks unappealing or smells strange, it's best to toss it. If you have leftovers, try using them in other dishes. Add the salad greens to a sandwich or wrap for extra crunch. You can stir the fruit into yogurt or oatmeal for a tasty breakfast. Use leftover feta in an omelet or sprinkle it on pasta. By reusing ingredients, you reduce waste and enjoy new meals! For the full recipe of this delicious salad, check out the Blueberry Peach Feta Salad recipe above! Blueberry Peach Feta Salad stays fresh for about two days in the fridge. To keep it tasty, store the salad without the dressing. This way, the greens stay crisp. Place the salad in an airtight container to avoid moisture. Add the dressing just before serving. This helps maintain the salad's texture and flavor. Yes, you can make the salad in advance. For best results, prep the ingredients a day ahead. Slice the peaches and onions, and wash the blueberries. Keep them in separate containers in the fridge. Mix the salad right before serving. This keeps everything fresh and crunchy. If you want to change things up, try these substitutions: - Use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier taste. - Swap out the peaches for nectarines or mangoes if you prefer. - For a nut-free version, skip the nuts or use seeds. - Choose dairy-free cheese for a plant-based option. You can enhance this salad's flavor easily. Here are some ideas: - Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for a burst of freshness. - Sprinkle in a pinch of chili flakes for a light kick. - Use a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness. - Experiment with different oils, like sesame or avocado, for unique taste. This blog post covered a flavorful Blueberry Peach Feta Salad. You learned about fresh ingredients, step-by-step assembly, and tips to perfect your dish. Remember to adjust the dressing to suit your taste. Experiment with fruits and proteins for variety. Store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Enjoy making this salad your own and impress your friends. Simple changes can elevate your meals. Healthy eating can be fun and delicious!](https://fastmealmate.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/bb9b81a5-7ffe-4e71-9206-cbaa633d04dc-768x768.webp)


