Tomato Pie Recipe

This Tomato Pie recipe brings together a perfectly golden, homemade crust topped with a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. Crafted with fresh Roma tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and high-quality cheese, this dish is a timeless favorite for any gathering. Whether served warm or cold, it pairs effortlessly with salads or hearty soups, making it a versatile addition to your table. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and casual get-togethers, this recipe highlights the fresh flavors of roasted tomatoes and the perfect balance of crispy crust and savory toppings. Perfectly customizable, it suits a variety of tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 packets active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (approximately 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra if needed)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Additional olive oil for greasing the pan
• Grated Locatelli cheese for sprinkling

For the Sauce:

• 6 Roma tomatoes, halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 15 ounces tomato puree
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

For the Crust:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, combine yeast and warm water. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add sugar, salt, and olive oil. Turn the mixer to low speed and gradually add the flour. Once the dough begins to form, increase the speed to medium. Periodically stop to scrape the dough off the hook. Mix until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes).
3. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a well-oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven to 500°F. Grease a large baking pan with olive oil. Place the dough on the pan and, using your fingertips, stretch it into a large rectangle.
5. Use a fork or small knife to prick the surface of the dough to release any air bubbles. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for another 30 minutes.
6. Place the baking sheet in the oven and reduce the temperature to 425°F. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, add the prepared tomato sauce, and bake for another 10 minutes.
7. Let the pie cool for 5 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Top with grated Locatelli cheese and serve warm or cold.

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For the Sauce:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Arrange the halved Roma tomatoes on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 45 minutes.
2. While the tomatoes are roasting, combine the tomato puree, tomato paste, garlic, sugar, balsamic vinegar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large saucepan. Simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Blend the roasted tomatoes to a chunky consistency using a blender or food processor. Add the roasted tomatoes to the saucepan and simmer until the sauce thickens and most of the water evaporates.
4. Set the sauce aside to cool before spreading it over the crust.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tomato Pie brings together the rustic flavors of homemade crust and rich, slow-cooked tomato sauce. It’s a versatile dish that can be served warm or cold, making it perfect for any occasion. With simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe.

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Tips

• Ensure your water is warm but not too hot to activate the yeast properly.
• Use a baking stone for even heat distribution and a crispier crust.
• Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free space for best results.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese: Swap Locatelli cheese for Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.
• Herbs: Add fresh basil or oregano for an extra burst of flavor.
• Toppings: Include sautéed onions or roasted peppers for added texture.

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FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before shaping.

What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar in the sauce?
You can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

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Serving

Slice the Tomato Pie into squares and serve as an appetizer, side dish, or main course. Pair it with a crisp salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

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Suggestions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven for a crisp crust or enjoy cold for a quick snack.
• Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings!