Tuscany Tomato Pie Recipe
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Tuscany Tomato Pie, a culinary creation that bursts with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried and fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy mozzarella cheese. This savory pie serves as a perfect addition to any lunch or snack table and brings the taste of the sun-drenched Italian countryside right to your kitchen. With a simple preparation and a cooking time of just under an hour, it is an ideal choice for gatherings or a cozy family meal.
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Category | Lunch/Snacks |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Yield | 1 pie |
| Rating | 4.5 stars (3 reviews) |
| Calories | 345.8 kcal |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fat Content | 24.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 134.5 mg |
| Sodium | 349.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 21.2 g |
| Fiber | 2.3 g |
| Sugar | 2.3 g |
| Protein | 11.5 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Mozzarella cheese |
| 100 g | Fresh tomatoes |
| 3 – 4 | Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil |
| 4 | Mustard |
| 1 cup | Semolina |
| 1 cup | All-purpose flour |
| 3 | Pine nuts |
| 3 | Eggs |
| 250 ml | Half-and-half cream |
| 1 clove | Garlic (peeled and finely chopped) |
| 50 – 100 g | Fresh basil (chopped) |
| – | Salt (to taste) |
| – | Black pepper (to taste) |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin your culinary journey by preheating your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (approximately 400 degrees Fahrenheit), setting the stage for a beautifully baked pie.
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Prepare the Cheese and Tomatoes: Slice the mozzarella cheese into thin rounds and set aside. Next, slice the fresh tomatoes, ensuring that they are evenly cut for a uniform layer in the pie.
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Chop the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Take your sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drain them slightly, and chop them into small pieces, allowing their rich flavor to infuse the pie.
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Assemble the Base: Spread a thin layer of mustard over the bottom of the prepared pie shell. Sprinkle a light coating of semolina flour on top of the mustard, helping to absorb moisture and create a lovely texture.
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Layer the Fresh Tomatoes: Begin layering the sliced fresh tomatoes evenly across the base of the pie. Once the tomatoes are arranged, scatter the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts over the top, adding both texture and flavor.
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Add the Mozzarella: Place the slices of mozzarella cheese over the layered tomatoes and nuts, ensuring that they cover the filling generously for a creamy, melty topping.
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Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and half-and-half until fully combined. Then, add the finely chopped garlic, fresh basil, salt, and black pepper to the egg mixture. Whisk thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Pour the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the seasoned egg mixture into the pie shell, allowing it to seep through the layers of cheese, tomatoes, and nuts, effectively binding all ingredients together.
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Bake the Pie: Place the assembled pie into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg is set. Keep an eye on the pie towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy this wonderful dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine.
Pro Tip
For an exciting twist, consider substituting feta cheese for the mozzarella and adding a few sliced olives to the pie. This Greek-inspired variation will offer a delightful change while keeping the pie’s essential flavors intact. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly, as feta tends to be saltier than mozzarella.
Indulge in the flavors of Tuscany with this delectable pie that combines fresh ingredients and a simple preparation for an unforgettable lunch or snack experience.
