Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie

Easy Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer. This savory pie is filled with fresh tomatoes and melty cheeses, making it perfect as an appetizer or a satisfying main dish. Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it suitable for family gatherings, picnics, or even a cozy dinner at home. With its flaky crust and cheesy filling, this Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is easy to whip up for any occasion.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using ripe tomatoes and quality cheese brings out incredible flavors that are hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it warm or at room temperature—perfect for brunches, parties, or casual dinners.
• Healthy Option: Packed with fresh ingredients, this pie offers a nutritious twist on comfort food.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s an excellent choice for gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking experience and ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A 12 inch (30 cm) round pizza pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Pizza Pan: Ensures even cooking and crispiness of the pie crust.
• Mixing Bowl: Helps in preparing the ingredients without mess.
• Knife: Essential for slicing the tomatoes and cheese evenly.
• Pastry Brush: Perfect for applying butter onto the crust for added flavor.

Ingredients

Easy Italian Fresh Tomato Cheese Pie, a delicious Italian healthy summer savory pie recipe, the perfect appetizer or main dish.

For the Crust

• 1 pre-made pie crust or puff pastry
• 1 tablespoon butter melted

For the Filling

• 7 ounces firm mozzarella thinly sliced
• 5¼ ounces fontal cheese / gouda / gruyere (or any soft cheese of choice)
• 2 ripe / firm tomatoes thinly sliced

Herbs and Seasoning

• 1½ teaspoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon basil
• ¼ -½ teaspoon salt

For Drizzling

• 1¼ tablespoons olive oil for drizzling
• 3-5 leaves fresh basil

How to Make Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 12 inch (30 cm) round pizza pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

Place the puff pastry or savory crust onto the prepared pan. Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the pastry with melted butter.

Step 3: Layer the Cheeses and Tomatoes

Top the buttery crust with:
1. Thinly sliced mozzarella.
2. Thinly sliced fontal cheese (or your choice of soft cheese).
3. Thin slices of tomato (if tomatoes are seedy, remove seeds & pulp).

Sprinkle with salt, oregano, and basil. Drizzle olive oil over everything.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes or until golden brown. Once done, remove from oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy this delicious Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie hot or at room temperature!

How to Serve Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie

Serving Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie can elevate your meal experience, whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. This savory pie pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.

With Fresh Salad

• A light, mixed greens salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances the pie’s richness.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Crisp garlic bread complements the pie’s cheesy goodness, perfect for dipping into any leftover tomato juices.

Paired with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables bring a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory cheese and tomatoes.

Alongside Antipasto Platter

• An antipasto platter featuring olives, cured meats, and pickled vegetables provides a delightful contrast to the pie’s creaminess.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Serve slices alongside other brunch favorites like frittatas or quiches for a delicious spread that guests will love.

How to Perfect Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie

To achieve the best results when making your Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie, follow these tips for an irresistibly delicious dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes enhance flavor significantly. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.
• Pre-bake the crust: Lightly pre-baking the crust prevents sogginess and ensures it remains flaky and golden.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your tomato slices before baking; adjust salt and herbs according to their natural sweetness or acidity.
• Let it cool slightly: Allowing the pie to cool before slicing helps maintain its structure, making serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options that complement its flavors beautifully:

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction add a Mediterranean touch.
2. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from grated zucchini provide a delightful crunch alongside the creamy pie.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus spears seasoned with olive oil offer a fresh taste that brightens up the meal.
4. Pasta Primavera: A colorful mix of sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta brings an extra layer of flavor to your dining experience.
5. Chilled Gazpacho: This cold Spanish soup made from tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers serves as a refreshing starter.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide heartiness without overshadowing the main dish’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using soggy crust: A soggy crust can ruin your pie’s texture. Always pre-bake the crust slightly before adding fillings to ensure it remains crisp.
• Overloading with toppings: While it may be tempting to add more cheese or tomatoes, too many ingredients can make the pie watery. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Not seasoning properly: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with your herbs and adjust salt according to taste for a delicious outcome.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match. Always use fresh basil for garnish to enhance the dish’s overall appeal.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your pie and adjust baking time if necessary, as you want it golden but not burnt.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie?

Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie is a savory dish featuring layers of cheese, fresh tomatoes, and herbs baked in a flaky crust. It’s perfect as an appetizer or main course.

Can I use different cheeses for the pie?

Yes, you can customize the cheese based on your preferences. Options like gouda or gruyere work well alongside mozzarella.

How do I prevent my pie from being too watery?

To avoid excess moisture, remove seeds from tomatoes before slicing and consider pre-baking the crust slightly.

What should I serve with Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salads or roasted vegetables, enhancing its flavors while providing a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Italian Cheese and Tomato Pie is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. Its versatility allows for various customization options, so feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs. Try this recipe for an impressive appetizer or main dish that will impress your guests!