Summer Vegetable Pie Recipe: A Fresh and Flavorful Savory Delight
A delicious and satisfying vegetable pie that’s perfect for a light, no-meat dinner or lunch. This simple single-crust pie is filled with a variety of fresh, seasonal vegetables, making it a wonderful choice during the summer months. The combination of savory flavors from garlic, onions, and fresh herbs, alongside the sweetness of corn and honey, creates a well-balanced dish that is both comforting and nutritious. This Summer Vegetable Pie pairs beautifully with a light tossed salad and freshly baked sweet rolls. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet meal at home or serving it at a summer gathering, this dish is sure to delight everyone at the table.
Recipe Summary
- Category: Savory Pies
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cuisine Type: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
For the crust:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White flour | 3/4 cup |
| Unbleached flour | 3/4 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Butter or margarine | 1/2 cup |
| Water (cold) | As needed |
For the filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter or margarine | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium |
| Celery (diced) | 2 stalks |
| Zucchini (sliced) | 1 small |
| Carrot (shredded) | 1 medium |
| Frozen corn kernels | 1 cup |
| Honey | 1 tbsp |
| Dry mustard | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Fresh sage (chopped) | 1 tsp |
| Tomatoes (sliced) | 2 medium |
| Swiss cheese (grated) | 1 cup |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 412.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 25.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 67.4 mg |
| Sodium | 606.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 38.6 g |
| Fiber | 5.6 g |
| Sugar | 8.1 g |
| Protein | 11 g |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Sift the dry ingredients: Begin by sifting together the white flour, unbleached flour, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Cut in the fat: Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut in the butter (or margarine) until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. This step ensures a flaky crust.
- Add water: Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough holds together. You may not need all the water, so be sure to check the consistency.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it just a few times until it comes together.
- Shape and chill: Form the dough into a thick disc, then wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in a zippered bag. Refrigerate for at least an hour or until you are ready to use it.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetable Filling
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is fully heated by the time the pie is assembled.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter (or margarine) over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 10 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add the zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms: Stir in the sliced zucchini, shredded carrot, and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and have released their moisture.
- Stir in peas and corn: Add the frozen corn kernels and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing them to thaw and warm through.
- Season the filling: Stir in the honey, dry mustard, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh sage. Remove the skillet from heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Roll out the crust: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan. If using a quiche dish, the dough should be slightly thicker to hold the hearty vegetable filling.
- Place the dough in the pan: Carefully transfer the rolled dough to your pie dish. Trim the edges, leaving a small overhang, and crimp the edges or create a decorative border with your fingers.
- Prick the bottom: Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust, which will help prevent bubbling during baking. If desired, brush the crust with milk or an egg wash for a golden finish.
- Precook the crust (optional): If you prefer a crispier bottom, you can precook the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
Step 4: Fill and Bake the Pie
- Fill the pie crust: Spoon the cooled vegetable mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with tomatoes and cheese: Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the grated Swiss cheese over the tomatoes for a rich, melty topping.
- Garnish with parsley: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Brush the edges: Brush the edges of the crust with a little more milk or egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. If you precooked the crust, reduce the baking time to 40 to 45 minutes.
- Cool before slicing: Allow the pie to stand for 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice.
Serving Suggestions:
This Summer Vegetable Pie is best served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a light tossed salad of mixed greens and a few freshly baked sweet rolls for a well-rounded meal. The creamy filling and savory crust will be a hit with both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Pro Tips:
- Seasonal Variations: Feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplant, or green beans for a unique twist.
- Cheese Alternatives: If Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite, you can easily substitute it with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a crumbled feta for a tangy bite.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the crust gluten-free. Be sure to adjust the water quantity as needed since gluten-free flours absorb moisture differently.
Enjoy this healthy and flavorful summer pie as part of your next meal or picnic. With its combination of fresh, seasonal vegetables and a flaky, buttery crust, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your household!
