Name: Heirloom Tomato Pie: A Savory Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 cups heirloom tomatoes, sliced (various colors for visual appeal); 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup chopped fresh basil; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 tbsp olive oil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of ripe heirloom tomatoes, fresh herbs, and creamy cheeses makes this pie a flavor explosion in every bite.
Visually Stunning: The colorful heirloom tomatoes make the pie not only delicious but also visually striking.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family meal or a fancy dinner party, this heirloom tomato pie is sure to impress.
Easy to Make: With a pre-made crust and simple ingredients, this dish comes together quickly and easily.

Ingredients

3 cups heirloom tomatoes, sliced (various colors for visual appeal)
1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
2 teaspoons fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon cornmeal (for dusting)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Pie Crust

If using a pre-made frozen pie crust, follow package instructions to pre-bake it for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.
If making the crust from scratch, roll it out into a pie dish and blind bake until it’s slightly golden.

3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well-blended and creamy.

4. Assemble the Pie

Sprinkle cornmeal evenly on the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust. This helps absorb excess moisture from the tomatoes.
Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the bottom of the pie crust.
Layer half of the sliced heirloom tomatoes on top of the ricotta mixture, alternating colors for visual appeal. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper.

5. Top with More Ricotta and Tomatoes

Add the remaining ricotta mixture on top of the first tomato layer.
Layer the remaining tomatoes on top, finishing with the mozzarella cheese sprinkled over the top.

6. Bake the Pie

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the tomatoes are roasted.

7. Cool and Serve

Allow the pie to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the flavors set and makes it easier to slice.
Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Tomato Variety: Use a mix of different-colored heirloom tomatoes to add vibrancy and variety to the pie.
Crust Options: You can use a store-bought pie crust for convenience or make your own for a more homemade touch.
Herb Variations: If you prefer other herbs, try adding oregano, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor.

Storing and Reheating

Storage: Leftover pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pie in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular tomatoes instead of heirloom?

Yes, you can use regular tomatoes, but heirloom tomatoes have a richer flavor and more variety in color, which makes the dish more visually appealing.

2. Can I make this pie in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the pie ahead of time, refrigerate it, and then bake it when you’re ready. Just keep in mind that the crust may not be as crispy if made ahead.

3. Can I use a different cheese?

If you prefer, you can substitute goat cheese or cream cheese for the ricotta, or add some cheddar for a sharper flavor.

4. How do I know when the pie is done?

The pie is done when the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and the tomatoes are soft and roasted. You can also check that the crust is golden and crisp on the edges.

5. Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pie. Just assemble it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, cook from frozen at 375°F for about 50 minutes.

Conclusion

Heirloom Tomato Pie is a beautiful, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines the best of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The creamy ricotta and mozzarella filling, paired with the juicy heirloom tomatoes, create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This savory pie is perfect for a cozy meal or to impress your guests at your next gathering. Whether you’re a fan of Italian-inspired dishes or just love tomatoes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite!

Heirloom Tomato Pie: A Savory Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients