Southern Tomato Pie with Sourdough Pie Crust

As summer unfolds and gardens overflow with ripe tomatoes, there’s nothing quite like savoring a slice of Southern Tomato Pie with Sourdough Pie Crust. This dish encapsulates the essence of Southern comfort food, where fresh produce takes center stage. Perfect for a family gathering or a cozy evening at home, this pie is bursting with flavor and reminds us all of sunny days spent under the shade of a tree.

What Makes This Southern Tomato Pie with Sourdough Pie Crust Special

This delightful dish showcases the vibrant taste of juicy tomatoes paired with a savory, flaky sourdough crust. It’s a true homage to Southern culinary traditions, and the combination of fresh herbs and creamy cheeses elevates it to new heights. Here are a few reasons you’ll fall in love with this pie:

• The unique sourdough crust adds a depth of flavor.
• Fresh tomatoes and basil bring a summer garden to your plate.
• Creamy cheeses create a rich filling that’s utterly satisfying.
• Perfect for any meal, serve it warm for lunch or at room temperature as a picnic delight.

Gather These Ingredients

The secret to a successful Southern Tomato Pie lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious pie:

• 2 1/4 cups flour (divided, 325 grams)
• 1 teaspoon salt (7 grams)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (chilled, 227 grams)
• 1/2 cup sourdough discard (135 grams, see recipe notes)
• 4-8 Tablespoons ice water
• 3 large tomatoes (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 3 Tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup reserved for topping)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (1/2 cup reserved for topping)
• 2 Tablespoons chives or green onion (chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano

The sourdough discard in the crust not only minimizes waste but contributes a delightful tanginess that complements the filling beautifully.

For a fresh and vibrant salad to serve alongside, our Vegetarian Mediterranean Bean Salad is colorful, light, and complements the rich, cheesy flavors of this pie beautifully.

Step by Step for Southern Tomato Pie with Sourdough Pie Crust

Creating this Southern Tomato Pie is an easy process that yields stunning results. Follow these steps to bring this flavor explosion to your table:

1. Prepare the Sourdough Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Then, mix in the sourdough discard, adding ice water gradually until the dough holds together. Shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Pre-bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle slightly larger than your pie dish. Transfer it to the dish and trim the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Tomato Filling: While the crust is baking, layer the bottom with thinly sliced tomatoes, sprinkling with salt, and allowing them to drain for about 10 minutes. This will reduce excess moisture.
4. Make the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar, chopped chives, garlic powder, black pepper, and oregano. Mix until smooth.
5. Assemble the Pie: In the cooled crust, layer the drained tomatoes, scatter fresh basil over the top, and pour the cheese mixture over everything. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar on top.
6. Bake to Perfection: Return the pie to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Prep ~1 hour, Cook ~50 minutes, Total ~1 hour 50 minutes, Servings ~8, Kcal ~400 per slice.

Prepare in Advance

You can make this Southern Tomato Pie with Sourdough Pie Crust ahead of time. The crust can be prepared and chilled a day in advance, while the filling can also be assembled and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve. If stored properly, it will maintain its delicious flavor and crisp texture.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover tomato pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just cover it well, keeping it fresh and flavorful. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic and then in foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You’ll know it’s fresh when the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden.

For a fresh and vibrant salad to serve alongside, our Vegan Ratatouille is colorful, light, and complements the rich cheesy flavors of this pie beautifully.

Perfect Pairings

Southern Tomato Pie with Sourdough Pie Crust is delightful on its own, but consider these side dishes for a complete meal:

• A crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette.
• Grilled chicken or turkey for extra protein.
• Roasted vegetables to add color and variety.
• Fresh fruit salad to brighten the table.

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this dish by adding your personal touch:

• Incorporate different herbs like thyme or dill for varied aromatic flavors.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or pepper jack, for a spicy kick.
• Add cooked ground chicken or turkey for a heartier filling.
• Use store-bought crust if time is tight for an even quicker preparation.
• Change the tomatoes for heirloom varieties for a more colorful and flavorful filling.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Southern Tomato Pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these pro tips:

• Chill the butter and sourdough discard thoroughly for a flaky crust.
• Allow the pie to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing, which helps maintain its shape.
• When layered, sprinkle salt between the tomato slices to enhance their flavor.
• Rotate the pie halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Your Questions Answered

• Can I make this pie vegetarian? Yes, simply omit any additional protein and rely on the tasty combination of cheese and vegetables.
• What if I don’t have sourdough discard? You can substitute it with a little extra yogurt or a homemade crust, though the taste will differ slightly.
• How do I know when the pie is done? The pie is finished when the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, giving off a mouthwatering aroma.
• Can I use store-bought pie crust? Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a store-bought crust is a great shortcut.
• How do I enhance the flavor of the tomatoes? Sprinkling them with salt before assembling helps to draw out excess moisture and intensify their natural sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Indulging in Southern Tomato Pie with Sourdough Pie Crust is not just a meal; it’s a taste of tradition that comes from the heart of Southern cooking. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or served cold the next day, this pie is bound to become a favorite in your household. Bring the flavors of summer indoors and gather your loved ones around the table to experience this comforting delight soon!

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