Southern Tomato Tart

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Southern Tomato Tart.

1. Step 1

   Begin by preheating your oven to a crisp 400°F (200°C).

2. Step 2

   Roll out your pie crust and gently press it into a 9-inch pie plate, ensuring it hugs the bottom and sides.

3. Step 3

   Tuck the edges under and crimp them to your liking.

4. Step 4

   To prepare for blind baking, cover the crust with parchment paper, allowing a generous 3-inch overhang, and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.

5. Step 5

   Bake the crust in the hot oven for 10 minutes.

6. Step 6

   Carefully lift out the parchment and weights, then return the crust to the oven for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, or until it turns a lovely light golden brown.

7. Step 7

   Once done, transfer the crust to a wire rack and let it cool completely, which should take about 30 minutes.

8. Step 8

   As the crust cools, lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).

9. Step 9

   While waiting, slice your tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds and lay them out in a single layer on paper towels.

10. Step 10

    Sprinkle with 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt and let them rest for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

11. Step 11

    Afterward, gently pat the tomato slices dry with more paper towels.

12. Step 12

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and cream cheese until silky smooth.

13. Step 13

    Fold in 1 1/4 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese, a beaten egg, flour, minced garlic, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt until everything is harmoniously combined.

14. Step 14

    Spread half of this cheesy mixture into your cooled pie crust, then layer one-third of the tomato slices in slightly overlapping circles.

15. Step 15

    Repeat this layering with the remaining cheese mixture and another third of the tomato slices.

16. Step 16

    Finish with the last third of the tomato slices, artfully arranged.

17. Step 17

    For a delightful finish, sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese and the remaining 1/4 cup of Cheddar cheese.

18. Step 18

    Bake the pie in the preheated oven until the filling is set and the top is a beautiful golden hue, which should take about 30 to 35 minutes.

19. Step 19

    If the crust begins to brown too quickly, simply tent it with aluminum foil.

20. Step 20

    Once baked, allow the pie to rest for at least 30 minutes before serving.

21. Step 21

    For a fresh touch, garnish with thinly sliced basil just before serving, and enjoy a slice of summer in every bite.