If you're searching for a dish that combines the freshness of summer with comforting, cheesy goodness, look no further than this Rustic Tomato Basil Pie. It's a perfect blend of ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil, all nestled in a flaky pie crust.
The key to this pie is using fresh, quality ingredients. Start with a pre-made pie crust to save time, but feel free to make your own if you prefer. Next, you'll need 3 large ripe tomatoes. These are the stars of the show, bringing juicy sweetness and acidity. Mozzarella cheese adds a mild, creamy texture, while cheddar cheese introduces a sharp, tangy flavor. The binding element here is mayonnaise, which, believe it or not, melds everything together without overwhelming the taste. Fresh basil leaves bring a pop of herby freshness, and green onions add a mild, savory bite. A touch of olive oil helps everything meld together while baking.
This pie pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a balsamic vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. A cold glass of white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc complements the fresh, herby flavors beautifully.
First things first: preheat your oven to 375°F. While that's warming up, grab your 9-inch pie pan and lay in the pre-made pie crust. Pop it in the oven for a quick 10-minute prebake. This step ensures your crust stays flaky and doesn't get soggy from the tomato juices.
While the crust is baking, slice your tomatoes, aiming for even, medium-thick slices. Once the crust is ready, layer these tomato slices evenly inside, sprinkling a bit of salt and pepper as you go. This seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes.
Now, mix up the filling. In a bowl, combine the mozzarella, cheddar, mayonnaise, basil, and green onions. Stir until everything is well mixed — it should be creamy with flecks of green. Spread this mixture over the tomatoes in the pie shell, pressing down slightly to compact the layers.
Before you pop it into the oven, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the top. This little touch adds richness and helps the top turn a beautiful golden brown. Bake the pie for 30 to 35 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it's bubbly and golden.
Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the pie set and makes serving easier.
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