Green Tomato Pie
Green Tomato Pie offers a delightful tart-sweet flavor with tender green tomatoes layered with sugar and lemon juice, encased in a flaky crust. Perfect for summer or fall, it appeals to those who enjoy fruity desserts with a tangy twist and a nostalgic homemade feel.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In the bottom crust, sprinkle the flour, then layer 1/2 cup sugar, two layers of sliced green tomatoes, and drizzle the lemon juice over this. Top with another 1/2 cup sugar.
- Cover with the second pie crust that has slits cut into it.
- Optionally, sprinkle sugar over the top crust.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about 1 hour or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of green tomatoes and slightly ripe ones to balance acidity and sweetness. If you're out of sugar, try substituting with honey or agave syrup, adjusting the quantity since they are sweeter. Using a pre-made pie crust can save time, but for a homemade touch, try a basic pastry crust from scratch.
Serving Suggestions
This Green Tomato Pie is delicious served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful contrast. It also complements savory dishes like Vegetable Medley Casserole, making it a versatile addition to any meal. For a refreshing drink, consider serving with iced tea or a light white wine.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Microwaving is an option, but it may make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Tomato Pie contains roughly 13 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 regular tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
Using regular tomatoes will change the flavor profile significantly; green tomatoes are firmer and tart, providing a distinct taste. If you must substitute, try using slightly underripe tomatoes, but the texture and acidity will be different.
How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits in the top crust. If you're unsure, you can insert a knife into the filling to check if it’s hot and set; it should come out relatively clean.
Can I make this pie vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this pie vegan by using a plant-based pie crust and substituting sugar with a vegan-friendly sweetener. Ensure that the flour used for the crust is also vegan, and you’ll have a delicious vegan version of this classic pie.
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).