Fresh Pick of the Month: Southern Tomato Pie
June is National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month, making it the perfect time to celebrate one of Georgia's most beloved summer staples: tomatoes. Whether grown in backyard gardens, purchased from a local farmers market, or picked up at the grocery store, tomatoes are at their peak during the summer months. They're versatile, nutritious, and often one of the most affordable fresh vegetables available this time of year.
One delicious way to enjoy the season's bounty is with a classic Southern Tomato Pie. This savory dish combines ripe tomatoes, cheese, herbs, and a flaky crust to create a meal that's simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for a family gathering. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it's also budget-friendly, feeding up to eight people for around $10–$12 total.
Southern Tomato Pie
Serves: 8
Estimated Total Cost: $10–$12
Estimated Cost Per Serving: $1.25–$1.50
Recipe costs are estimates based on average grocery prices and may vary by location and season.
Ingredients
- 1 prepared pie crust
- 3–4 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate and bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Arrange tomato slices on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Allow them to sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently pat dry.
- Layer tomatoes and onions in the prepared pie crust.
- In a separate bowl, combine cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), basil, and black pepper.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the tomatoes.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Why We Love It
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant associated with numerous health benefits. Pairing tomatoes with dairy products helps create a satisfying meal while providing protein and calcium. This recipe is also easy to customize based on what's available in your kitchen. Add corn, spinach, zucchini, or fresh herbs to make it your own.
Stretch Your Food Budget
Summer is often the best time to purchase fresh tomatoes at a lower cost. Shopping local produce stands, farmers markets, and community gardens can help families access nutritious foods while supporting Georgia growers. Affordable, seasonal ingredients like tomatoes make it possible to prepare meals that are both nourishing and delicious—proof that healthy eating doesn't have to break the budget. What's your favorite way to enjoy fresh summer tomatoes?
