Summer in our household isn’t just about sunshine and vacations; it’s deeply intertwined with the vibrant flavors of our garden. And nothing screams summer quite like the explosion of sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes ripening on the vine. Every year, we eagerly anticipate the moment we can start harvesting these little bursts of flavor, and one of the first recipes to emerge from our kitchen is, without a doubt, Cherry Tomato Pie. This isn’t just any pie; it’s a savory, sun-drenched masterpiece that has become a beloved family tradition. From the flaky, golden crust to the tangy-sweet filling bursting with roasted cherry tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and creamy cheese, this pie is a symphony of summer flavors. Even my pickiest eater, my son, who usually shies away from cooked tomatoes, devours slice after slice. It’s that good. This Cherry Tomato Pie recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a taste of summer captured in every bite. It’s perfect for potlucks, brunches, or a light summer dinner, and trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your kitchen too. Get ready to fall in love with the vibrant, irresistible flavors of this truly special Cherry Tomato Pie.
Gather Your Garden’s Goodness: Ingredients for Cherry Tomato Pie
The beauty of Cherry Tomato Pie lies in its simplicity and the celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. While the ingredient list is relatively short, each component plays a crucial role in creating the pie’s signature flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this summer delight to life:
For the Crust (Homemade or Store-Bought):
- Double Pie Crust: You’ll need enough dough for a double crust pie, approximately 1 pound.
- Homemade Pie Crust: For the most authentic and flaky crust, consider making your own. A classic recipe typically includes:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the crust. Bread flour can be substituted for a slightly chewier texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the crust and other ingredients.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, very cold and cubed: The key to flakiness! Cold butter creates pockets of steam in the oven, resulting in layers. You can also use shortening or a combination of butter and shortening.
- ½ cup ice water: Binds the dough together. Ice water keeps the butter cold, preventing gluten development and ensuring a tender crust.
- Store-Bought Pie Crust: For convenience, pre-made pie crusts work perfectly well. Choose a good quality brand for the best flavor and texture. Refrigerated pie crusts are generally preferred over frozen for ease of handling.
- Homemade Pie Crust: For the most authentic and flaky crust, consider making your own. A classic recipe typically includes:
For the Savory Cherry Tomato Filling:
- 2 pounds Cherry Tomatoes: The star of the show! Choose ripe, firm cherry tomatoes. Heirloom varieties or a mix of colors will add visual appeal and a more complex flavor profile. Grape tomatoes can also be used, but cherry tomatoes tend to have a sweeter, more intense flavor.
- 1 large Onion (Yellow or Sweet), thinly sliced: Adds a savory base note and sweetness that complements the tomatoes. Yellow onions offer a more robust flavor, while sweet onions provide a milder, sweeter taste.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential for depth of flavor and aromatic richness. Freshly minced garlic is always best.
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese, softened: Contributes to the creamy texture and tangy flavor of the filling. Full-fat cream cheese provides the richest flavor and texture, but you can use reduced-fat if preferred.
- ½ cup Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness to the filling, creating a creamy and cohesive texture. Full-fat mayonnaise is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Sharp Cheddar, Gruyere, or a Blend): Provides a cheesy, savory element and helps bind the filling together. Sharp cheddar offers a strong, tangy flavor, Gruyere adds a nutty and slightly sweet taste, and a blend of cheeses can create a more complex flavor profile. Consider Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or provolone as part of your blend.
- ¼ cup Fresh Basil, chopped: Infuses the pie with a bright, herbaceous aroma and flavor that perfectly complements tomatoes. Fresh basil is crucial for the best flavor; dried basil is not a suitable substitute.
- ¼ cup Fresh Thyme, chopped: Adds an earthy, slightly lemony note that enhances the savory character of the pie. Fresh thyme is preferred, but in a pinch, you can use dried thyme (reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon).
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Used for roasting the tomatoes and onions, adding flavor and preventing sticking. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust to taste.
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground: Adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its more vibrant flavor.
- Optional: Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:
- Tomato Variety: While cherry tomatoes are the star, you can experiment with other small tomato varieties like grape tomatoes, teardrop tomatoes, or even a mix of heirloom cherry tomatoes for a more complex flavor and color.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor profile. Goat cheese, feta, or Parmesan cheese can be added or substituted for some of the cheddar or Gruyere.
- Herb Alternatives: If you don’t have fresh basil and thyme, you can use other fresh herbs like oregano, rosemary, or chives. A combination of Italian herbs would also work well.
- Onion Options: Shallots or leeks can be substituted for yellow or sweet onions for a milder or more delicate flavor.
- Crust Customization: For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust recipe or a store-bought gluten-free crust. You can also experiment with different types of crusts, such as a cornmeal crust for a slightly different texture and flavor.
By using high-quality, fresh ingredients, you’ll ensure that your Cherry Tomato Pie is bursting with flavor and a true testament to the bounty of summer.
From Garden to Golden Crust: Step-by-Step Instructions for Cherry Tomato Pie Perfection
Creating this delectable Cherry Tomato Pie is a rewarding process, and following these step-by-step instructions will guide you to pie perfection. Don’t be intimidated if you’re new to pie-making; this recipe is surprisingly approachable, even for beginners.
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Tomato and Onion Mixture
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Roast Tomatoes and Onions: In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, sliced onion, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the tomato and onion mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly blistered, and the onions are tender and lightly caramelized. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and onions and intensifies their flavors.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the roasted tomato and onion mixture cool slightly while you prepare the pie crust. This will prevent the hot filling from melting the crust too quickly.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Filling
- Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This will make it easier to blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, chopped fresh basil, and chopped fresh thyme.
- Mix Well: Use a spoon or spatula to mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined and creamy. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Cherry Tomato Pie
- Prepare Pie Crust: If using homemade pie crust, divide the dough in half and roll out each half into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. If using store-bought crust, remove it from the packaging and let it soften slightly according to package directions.
- Line Pie Dish: Gently place one pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges of the crust to overhang slightly and crimp the edges decoratively. You can use a fork to crimp or create a more elaborate crimped edge using your fingers.
- Layer Filling: Spread the creamy cheese filling evenly over the bottom pie crust in the pie dish.
- Add Roasted Tomatoes and Onions: Spoon the slightly cooled roasted tomato and onion mixture evenly over the cheese filling. Distribute it evenly to ensure each slice has a good balance of tomatoes and onions.
- Top with Second Crust: Carefully place the second pie crust over the filling. Trim the edges to match the bottom crust and crimp the edges together to seal the pie. You can also brush the edges with a little water or egg wash to help them adhere better.
- Cut Vents: Cut several vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. This will prevent the crust from becoming soggy and help it bake evenly. You can create decorative vents using a knife or cookie cutters.
Step 4: Bake the Cherry Tomato Pie
- Bake: Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven.
- Baking Time: Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. Check for doneness around 40 minutes and continue baking if needed.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set up slightly and makes it easier to slice.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Slice and Serve: Once cooled slightly, slice the Cherry Tomato Pie into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, if desired, for added visual appeal and flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Cold Butter is Key: If making homemade crust, ensure your butter and water are ice cold. This is crucial for creating a flaky crust.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: When making homemade crust, handle the dough gently and avoid overworking it. Overworking can develop the gluten and result in a tough crust.
- Blind Bake (Optional for a Crisper Bottom Crust): For an extra crispy bottom crust, you can blind bake the bottom crust before adding the filling. Line the crust with parchment paper, fill with pie weights or dried beans, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Remove weights and parchment and bake for another 5-10 minutes until lightly golden. Then proceed with filling and baking as directed.
- Let it Cool: Resist the temptation to slice the pie immediately after baking. Allowing it to cool slightly helps the filling set and prevents it from being too runny.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the roasted tomato mixture and the cheese filling before assembling the pie and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, herbs) to your preference.
Following these detailed instructions will ensure you create a beautiful and flavorful Cherry Tomato Pie that is sure to impress.
Nutritional Nuggets: Understanding the Goodness in Every Slice of Cherry Tomato Pie
While Cherry Tomato Pie is undeniably delicious and comforting, it also offers some nutritional benefits thanks to its wholesome ingredients. Here’s a glimpse into the nutritional profile of this savory pie (Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes):
Servings: 8 slices
Approximate Nutrition Facts per Serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 350-450 kcal (This can vary depending on crust recipe, cheese type, and mayonnaise used)
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Fat: 25-35 grams (Primarily from cheese, mayonnaise, and pie crust)
- Saturated Fat: 15-20 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: Varies depending on oils used in crust and mayonnaise
- Cholesterol: 70-90 mg
- Sodium: 400-500 mg
- Carbohydrates: 25-35 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugar: 5-8 grams (Naturally occurring sugars from tomatoes and onions)
- Vitamin A: Provides a good source of Vitamin A (from tomatoes and cheese)
- Vitamin C: A source of Vitamin C (from tomatoes)
- Calcium: A good source of Calcium (from cheese)
- Lycopene: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to various health benefits.
- Other Vitamins and Minerals: Contains smaller amounts of other vitamins and minerals like potassium, vitamin K, and folate.
Nutritional Highlights:
- Source of Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes and onions contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the pie.
- Good Source of Protein: Cheese and to a lesser extent, the crust, provide protein.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is beneficial for health.
- Calcium Rich: Cheese provides a significant amount of calcium, essential for bone health.
Considerations for a Healthier Pie:
- Whole Wheat Crust: Using a whole wheat pie crust can increase the fiber content.
- Reduced-Fat Cheese and Mayonnaise: Opting for reduced-fat cream cheese, shredded cheese, and mayonnaise can lower the fat and calorie content.
- Increase Vegetable Ratio: You can add more vegetables to the filling, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to boost the nutritional value and fiber.
- Portion Control: Being mindful of portion sizes is key to enjoying this pie as part of a balanced diet.
While Cherry Tomato Pie is not a low-calorie or low-fat dish, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy eating plan. It offers a delicious way to incorporate vegetables and essential nutrients into your meal.
Time is of the Essence: Preparation and Baking Time for Your Cherry Tomato Pie
Planning your time in the kitchen is essential, especially when making pies that involve multiple steps. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate time required for preparing and baking this Cherry Tomato Pie:
Preparation Time:
- Crust Preparation (if homemade): 30-45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Vegetable Preparation (washing, slicing, mincing): 15-20 minutes
- Roasting Tomatoes and Onions: 25 minutes
- Cheese Filling Preparation: 10 minutes
- Pie Assembly: 15 minutes
Total Active Preparation Time: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes – 1 hour 50 minutes (If using homemade crust; less if using store-bought)
Baking Time:
- Baking: 40-50 minutes
- Cooling Time (before slicing): 15-20 minutes
Total Time from Start to Table: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes – 2 hours 50 minutes (If using homemade crust; less if using store-bought)
Time-Saving Tips:
- Use Store-Bought Crust: Opting for store-bought pie crusts will significantly reduce your preparation time, especially if you are short on time or new to pie-making.
- Prepare Crust Ahead of Time: If making homemade crust, you can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Roast Vegetables Ahead: You can roast the cherry tomatoes and onions a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day you assemble and bake the pie.
- Chop Herbs in Advance: Chop your fresh basil and thyme ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Planning Ahead:
Cherry Tomato Pie is a great dish to prepare ahead of time for gatherings or potlucks. You can assemble the pie completely (unbaked) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows you to get ahead of the cooking process and have a fresh, warm pie ready when you need it. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
By understanding the time commitment involved, you can plan accordingly and enjoy a stress-free pie-making experience!
How to Serve: Elevating Your Cherry Tomato Pie Experience
Cherry Tomato Pie is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for different occasions and meals. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience:
Serving Temperature:
- Warm: Serve slightly warm from the oven for the most comforting and flavorful experience. The cheese will be melty, and the crust will be perfectly crisp.
- Room Temperature: Cherry Tomato Pie is also delicious at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics, potlucks, and buffet-style gatherings. The flavors meld beautifully as it cools.
- Cold (Optional): While less common, some people enjoy it cold, especially on a hot summer day. The textures will be firmer when cold.
Serving Occasions:
- Appetizer: Cut into smaller squares or triangles and serve as a savory appetizer for parties or gatherings. It’s a delightful and unexpected starter.
- Brunch: A wonderful addition to a brunch spread. Pair it with other brunch favorites like quiche, frittatas, fruit salad, and pastries.
- Lunch: Enjoy a slice of Cherry Tomato Pie as a satisfying and flavorful lunch, especially during the summer months.
- Light Dinner: Serve as a light and refreshing dinner, especially when paired with a side salad.
- Side Dish: Accompany grilled meats, chicken, or fish with a slice of Cherry Tomato Pie as a savory side dish.
- Potlucks and Picnics: Its portability and deliciousness at room temperature make it a perfect dish to bring to potlucks, picnics, and outdoor gatherings.
Serving Pairings & Accompaniments:
- Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie.
- Arugula Salad: An arugula salad with Parmesan cheese and lemon vinaigrette complements the savory flavors beautifully.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish slices with fresh basil leaves, thyme sprigs, or chives for added aroma and visual appeal.
- Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess that enhances the flavors of the tomatoes and cheese.
- Dollop of Ricotta or Goat Cheese: A dollop of fresh ricotta cheese or creamy goat cheese on top adds extra creaminess and tanginess.
- Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a more substantial and balanced meal.
- Soup: Pair with a light summer soup like gazpacho or a chilled cucumber soup for a refreshing and complete meal.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or a light-bodied Rosé wine pairs well with the savory and tomato-forward flavors of the pie.
Presentation Tips:
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving to enhance its visual appeal.
- Pie Stand: Serve on a pretty pie stand to elevate the presentation.
- Slice Neatly: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices for neat and presentable slices.
By considering these serving suggestions, you can tailor your Cherry Tomato Pie experience to any occasion and create a memorable culinary moment.
Additional Tips for Pie Perfection: Mastering Your Cherry Tomato Pie
To truly master the art of Cherry Tomato Pie and ensure consistently delicious results, here are five additional tips gleaned from years of pie-making experience:
- Embrace High-Quality Tomatoes: The flavor of your Cherry Tomato Pie hinges on the quality of your tomatoes. Seek out the ripest, most flavorful cherry tomatoes you can find. Farmer’s markets and local farm stands are excellent sources for peak-season tomatoes. Consider using a variety of heirloom cherry tomatoes for a more complex and nuanced flavor profile. Avoid using underripe or bland tomatoes, as they will lack the sweetness and intensity needed for this recipe. The better the tomatoes, the better the pie.
- Don’t Skip the Roasting Step: Roasting the cherry tomatoes and onions is not just about cooking them; it’s about transforming their flavors. Roasting intensifies their sweetness, concentrates their taste, and creates a slightly caramelized edge that adds depth and complexity to the filling. This step prevents the pie from being watery and ensures a richer, more flavorful filling. Don’t rush the roasting process; allow the tomatoes and onions to truly soften and blister for the best results.
- Properly Drain Roasted Tomatoes (If Needed): Depending on the juiciness of your tomatoes and the roasting process, they might release some liquid during roasting. If there is excess liquid on the baking sheet after roasting, gently drain some of it off before adding the tomatoes to the pie filling. Too much liquid can make the pie soggy. You can also lightly pat the roasted tomatoes with paper towels to remove excess moisture if needed.
- Chill the Pie Before Baking (Optional but Recommended): After assembling the pie, chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking (or even longer, up to an hour) can help solidify the butter in the crust, resulting in a flakier and more tender crust. Chilling also helps prevent the crust from shrinking too much during baking. This step is particularly beneficial if you are using homemade crust or if your kitchen is warm.
- Monitor Baking Time and Crust Browning: Ovens can vary in temperature, so it’s essential to monitor your pie during baking. Start checking for doneness around 40 minutes. The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbly. If the crust is browning too quickly before the filling is cooked through, you can loosely tent the pie with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Conversely, if the crust is not browning enough, you can increase the oven temperature slightly for the last few minutes of baking or move the pie to a lower rack in the oven.
By incorporating these tips into your pie-making process, you’ll be well on your way to consistently creating exceptional Cherry Tomato Pies that are bursting with flavor and have a perfectly flaky crust.
Frequently Asked Questions: Your Cherry Tomato Pie Queries Answered
Have questions about making Cherry Tomato Pie? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the recipe with confidence:
Q1: Can I make Cherry Tomato Pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can definitely make Cherry Tomato Pie ahead of time! You have a few options:
- Assemble and Refrigerate Unbaked: You can assemble the entire pie (unbaked) and store it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Bake and Refrigerate: You can bake the pie completely, let it cool to room temperature, and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
- Prepare Components Ahead: You can roast the tomatoes and onions, make the cheese filling, and even prepare the pie crust a day or two in advance. Store each component separately in the refrigerator and assemble and bake the pie when ready.
Q2: Can I freeze Cherry Tomato Pie?
A: Yes, you can freeze Cherry Tomato Pie, although the texture of the filling might change slightly upon thawing. For best results:
- Bake and Freeze: Bake the pie completely, let it cool to room temperature, and then freeze it whole or in slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place slices in freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze Unbaked (Less Recommended): Freezing unbaked pie can sometimes result in a soggy crust. If you choose to freeze unbaked, freeze it solid first on a baking sheet, then wrap tightly. Bake from frozen, adding significant baking time.
- Thawing: Thaw frozen pie in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Reheat in a low oven to warm through and crisp up the crust if desired.
Q3: Can I use a different type of crust?
A: Absolutely! While a classic flaky pie crust is traditional, you can experiment with other crust options:
- Puff Pastry: For a lighter and flakier crust, you can use puff pastry for the top crust (or both top and bottom).
- Cornmeal Crust: A cornmeal crust adds a slightly rustic and savory flavor that complements the tomatoes nicely.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust recipe or a store-bought gluten-free crust for a gluten-free option.
- Crumb Topping (Instead of Top Crust): For a more open-faced pie, you can skip the top crust and use a savory crumb topping made with breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
A: Yes, feel free to customize the filling with other vegetables! Good additions include:
- Bell Peppers: Roasted bell peppers add sweetness and color.
- Zucchini or Summer Squash: Roasted zucchini or summer squash adds a mild flavor and tenderness.
- Spinach or Kale: Wilted spinach or kale can be added to the cheese filling for extra greens.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy and savory element.
Q5: My pie crust is browning too quickly. What should I do?
A: If your pie crust is browning too quickly before the filling is cooked through, here are a few solutions:
- Pie Crust Shield: Use a pie crust shield (aluminum foil or silicone) to cover the edges of the crust and prevent them from browning further while the center continues to bake.
- Aluminum Foil Tent: Loosely tent the entire pie with aluminum foil to reduce the overall heat on the crust while allowing the filling to cook.
- Lower Oven Rack: Move the pie to a lower rack in the oven. This will move the crust further away from the top heating element and slow down browning.
- Reduce Oven Temperature Slightly: If browning is a consistent issue, you can slightly reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (15°C).
By understanding these FAQs, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any challenges and create a perfect Cherry Tomato Pie every time!
Conclusion: Savor the Taste of Summer with Cherry Tomato Pie
Cherry Tomato Pie is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty, a testament to the simple pleasures of fresh, seasonal ingredients, and a dish that brings people together. From the vibrant burst of flavor in every roasted cherry tomato to the creamy, savory filling and the flaky, golden crust, this pie is a symphony of textures and tastes that truly captures the essence of summer. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer at a garden party, a centerpiece at a summer brunch, or a light and satisfying dinner, Cherry Tomato Pie is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, gather your fresh cherry tomatoes, roll out your pie crust, and embark on a culinary journey that will transport you to sun-drenched summer days with every delicious slice. This Cherry Tomato Pie recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience, a memory in the making, and a taste of summer that you’ll want to savor again and again. Enjoy the process, relish the aromas, and most importantly, share the joy of this incredible Cherry Tomato Pie with those you love. Happy baking and bon appétit!
Print
Cherry Tomato Pie Recipe
Ingredients
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- Double Pie Crust: You’ll need enough dough for a double crust pie, approximately 1 pound.
-
- Homemade Pie Crust: For the most authentic and flaky crust, consider making your own. A classic recipe typically includes:
-
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the crust. Bread flour can be substituted for a slightly chewier texture.
-
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the crust and other ingredients.
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- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, very cold and cubed: The key to flakiness! Cold butter creates pockets of steam in the oven, resulting in layers. You can also use shortening or a combination of butter and shortening.
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- ½ cup ice water: Binds the dough together. Ice water keeps the butter cold, preventing gluten development and ensuring a tender crust.
-
- Homemade Pie Crust: For the most authentic and flaky crust, consider making your own. A classic recipe typically includes:
-
- Store-Bought Pie Crust: For convenience, pre-made pie crusts work perfectly well. Choose a good quality brand for the best flavor and texture. Refrigerated pie crusts are generally preferred over frozen for ease of handling.
-
- Double Pie Crust: You’ll need enough dough for a double crust pie, approximately 1 pound.
For the Savory Cherry Tomato Filling:
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- 2 pounds Cherry Tomatoes: The star of the show! Choose ripe, firm cherry tomatoes. Heirloom varieties or a mix of colors will add visual appeal and a more complex flavor profile. Grape tomatoes can also be used, but cherry tomatoes tend to have a sweeter, more intense flavor.
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- 1 large Onion (Yellow or Sweet), thinly sliced: Adds a savory base note and sweetness that complements the tomatoes. Yellow onions offer a more robust flavor, while sweet onions provide a milder, sweeter taste.
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- 3 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential for depth of flavor and aromatic richness. Freshly minced garlic is always best.
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- 4 ounces Cream Cheese, softened: Contributes to the creamy texture and tangy flavor of the filling. Full-fat cream cheese provides the richest flavor and texture, but you can use reduced-fat if preferred.
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- ½ cup Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness to the filling, creating a creamy and cohesive texture. Full-fat mayonnaise is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
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- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Sharp Cheddar, Gruyere, or a Blend): Provides a cheesy, savory element and helps bind the filling together. Sharp cheddar offers a strong, tangy flavor, Gruyere adds a nutty and slightly sweet taste, and a blend of cheeses can create a more complex flavor profile. Consider Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or provolone as part of your blend.
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- ¼ cup Fresh Basil, chopped: Infuses the pie with a bright, herbaceous aroma and flavor that perfectly complements tomatoes. Fresh basil is crucial for the best flavor; dried basil is not a suitable substitute.
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- ¼ cup Fresh Thyme, chopped: Adds an earthy, slightly lemony note that enhances the savory character of the pie. Fresh thyme is preferred, but in a pinch, you can use dried thyme (reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon).
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- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Used for roasting the tomatoes and onions, adding flavor and preventing sticking. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor.
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- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust to taste.
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- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground: Adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its more vibrant flavor.
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- Optional: Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:
-
- Tomato Variety: While cherry tomatoes are the star, you can experiment with other small tomato varieties like grape tomatoes, teardrop tomatoes, or even a mix of heirloom cherry tomatoes for a more complex flavor and color.
-
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor profile. Goat cheese, feta, or Parmesan cheese can be added or substituted for some of the cheddar or Gruyere.
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- Herb Alternatives: If you don’t have fresh basil and thyme, you can use other fresh herbs like oregano, rosemary, or chives. A combination of Italian herbs would also work well.
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- Onion Options: Shallots or leeks can be substituted for yellow or sweet onions for a milder or more delicate flavor.
-
- Crust Customization: For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust recipe or a store-bought gluten-free crust. You can also experiment with different types of crusts, such as a cornmeal crust for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Tomato and Onion Mixture
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- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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- Roast Tomatoes and Onions: In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, sliced onion, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
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- Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the tomato and onion mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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- Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly blistered, and the onions are tender and lightly caramelized. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and onions and intensifies their flavors.
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- Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the roasted tomato and onion mixture cool slightly while you prepare the pie crust. This will prevent the hot filling from melting the crust too quickly.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Filling
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- Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This will make it easier to blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
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- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, chopped fresh basil, and chopped fresh thyme.
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- Mix Well: Use a spoon or spatula to mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined and creamy. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Cherry Tomato Pie
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- Prepare Pie Crust: If using homemade pie crust, divide the dough in half and roll out each half into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. If using store-bought crust, remove it from the packaging and let it soften slightly according to package directions.
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- Line Pie Dish: Gently place one pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges of the crust to overhang slightly and crimp the edges decoratively. You can use a fork to crimp or create a more elaborate crimped edge using your fingers.
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- Layer Filling: Spread the creamy cheese filling evenly over the bottom pie crust in the pie dish.
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- Add Roasted Tomatoes and Onions: Spoon the slightly cooled roasted tomato and onion mixture evenly over the cheese filling. Distribute it evenly to ensure each slice has a good balance of tomatoes and onions.
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- Top with Second Crust: Carefully place the second pie crust over the filling. Trim the edges to match the bottom crust and crimp the edges together to seal the pie. You can also brush the edges with a little water or egg wash to help them adhere better.
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- Cut Vents: Cut several vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. This will prevent the crust from becoming soggy and help it bake evenly. You can create decorative vents using a knife or cookie cutters.
Step 4: Bake the Cherry Tomato Pie
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- Bake: Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven.
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- Baking Time: Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. Check for doneness around 40 minutes and continue baking if needed.
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- Cool Slightly: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set up slightly and makes it easier to slice.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
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- Slice and Serve: Once cooled slightly, slice the Cherry Tomato Pie into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.
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- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, if desired, for added visual appeal and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 350-450 kcal
- Sugar: 5-8 grams
- Sodium: 400-500 mg
- Fat: 25-35 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25-35 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Cholesterol: 70-90 mg