Tomato and olive pie

Tomato and Olive Pie - a Mediterranean Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Who doesn't love the fresh and delicious flavors of the Mediterranean? Tomato and olive pie is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for summer meals or to bring a touch of sunshine to dreary days. This pie is not only delicious but also versatile, serving as an appetizer, snack, or even a substitute for bread. I will show you how to make it step by step, sharing some tips and variations to customize the recipe.

A Brief Story About Mediterranean Pie

Pies with various fillings are a tradition in many cultures around the sea. This recipe, with juicy tomatoes and salty olives, combines textures and flavors that evoke sunny landscapes and the joy of outdoor dining. Tomatoes, a symbol of summer, blend perfectly with olives, adding flavor and a touch of health. Whether served warm or cold, this pie will surely become a family favorite.

Basic Ingredients

- 250 g flour
- 250 g cornmeal
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1 large tomato
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- a few green or black olives, chopped
- chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- juice of one orange
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 packet baking powder
- sesame seeds for decoration

Step by Step for a Perfect Pie

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the tomato is ripe and juicy. Wash it well under cold running water, and to peel it more easily, you can dip it in hot water for a few seconds and then transfer it to cold water.

2. Mixing the oil: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, orange juice, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar. Mix well until the ingredients are fully integrated. This mixture will add flavor and moisture to the dough, making the pie soft and tasty.

3. Combining the flour: In another bowl, mix the flour with the cornmeal and baking powder. These dry ingredients will give structure to the pie. Make sure to sift them together to avoid lumps.

4. Creating the dough: Add the olive oil mixture over the dry ingredients. Crack the egg and pour in the milk, then mix everything with a spatula or whisk. You will get a dough slightly thicker than cake batter, but don't worry, it will spread perfectly in the pan.

5. Adding the tomatoes and olives: Peel the tomato and cut it into small cubes. Add the tomato and chopped olives to the dough and mix gently to distribute them evenly.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a pan with olive oil and pour the dough into it, smoothing it out with a spatula. Bake the pie for about 60 minutes or until it turns golden and a stick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

7. Cooling and serving: Once the pie is baked, let it cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. Then, you can cut it into portions and serve. It is delicious both warm and cold.

Serving Suggestions

The tomato and olive pie pairs perfectly with a serving of feta cheese or fresh mozzarella, along with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. A fresh green salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar can complete the meal perfectly. If you want a touch of freshness, add a few fresh basil leaves on top.

Tips and Variations

- Creative Additions: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or grated parmesan, to add a more intense flavor to the pie. You can also try replacing the tomato with zucchini or bell peppers for a different vegetarian option.
- Make Ahead: The pie can be prepared a day in advance, and the flavors will intensify. You can keep it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

This pie is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates due to the flour and cornmeal, providing long-lasting energy. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, and olives bring healthy fatty acids that can support heart health. Additionally, extra virgin olive oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can substitute white flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. It may require a bit more milk.
- What else can I add to the dough? You can experiment with fresh herbs, such as basil or dill, to change the flavor profile.
- Is it suitable for vegans? This recipe can be adapted using vegan ingredients, such as almond milk and an egg substitute.

In conclusion, the tomato and olive pie is not just a simple recipe but also a way to bring a bit of the Mediterranean atmosphere into your kitchen. By experimenting with ingredients and serving methods, you can transform this dish into a personalized delicacy, full of flavors and joy. Don't hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family, as every meal is an opportunity to create beautiful memories!

 Ingredients: 250 grams of flour, 250 grams of cornmeal, 1 cup of olive oil, 1 tomato, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of sugar, a few chopped olives, chopped fresh parsley, juice from 1 orange, 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 egg, 1 packet of baking powder, sesame seeds.