Basil-Tomato Pie
A savory tomato and basil pie featuring melted mozzarella and parmesan, perfect for summer gatherings or casual dinners with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prebake the pie crust according to the package instructions.
- Remove the prebaked crust from the oven and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of shredded Mozzarella cheese.
- Cool the crust on a wire rack.
- Cut the Roma tomatoes into wedges and drain on paper towels.
- Arrange the tomato wedges atop the melted cheese in the pie shell.
- In a food processor, combine basil and garlic; cover and process until finely chopped.
- Sprinkle the basil and garlic mixture over the tomatoes.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, and ground white pepper.
- Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the assembled pie.
- Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, use fresh basil instead of dried. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding ricotta cheese to the mayonnaise mixture. You can also substitute the Mozzarella with a combination of Cheddar and Gouda for a unique twist. Make sure to drain the tomatoes well to avoid a soggy crust. If you don't have garlic cloves, garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Basil-Tomato Pie warm or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer or light meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or alongside a bowl of minestrone soup. For a heartier option, serve it with Romano Fried Potatoes. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be cut into small slices for easy sharing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy. This pie can also be enjoyed cold, making it a great option for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil-Tomato Pie contains roughly 399 calories, with 21g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (43% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 629mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pie crust?
Yes, you can use a homemade pie crust or a gluten-free alternative if desired. Just ensure that the crust is prebaked according to your recipe instructions for best results. A puff pastry can also be a fun alternative, adding a flaky texture to the pie.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian as it uses cheese and vegetables. To enhance the flavor, consider adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra depth. You can also include a variety of other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to customize it to your taste.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance. Assemble it up to the point before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it according to the recipe instructions. This makes it a great option for entertaining or meal prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).