Food Majors #14 Tomato Pesto Tart
Life is hard, food doesn't have to be [vol1, 7.2]
Last week with the appearance of homegrown, full sized tomatoes, I began to dream about this recipe. It’s been years since I’ve made it. All the bright red tomatoes from last week’s FarmShare were gobbled up in salads. When they come today in the FarmShare basket, I’m certainly reserving a few for this dish.
The first time I tasted Tomato Pesto Tart was at a summertime baby shower, at least 17 years ago...way back in the day when we could gather in groups. I remember putting it into my mouth and thinking, “What.is.this?!”
Here’s how I have it (hand) written on an index card that I fished from a box this morning. Gosh, I’m showing my age. Do people still have recipe boxes these days?
Ingredients:
1 pie crust
2 c. shredded mozzarella, divided
5 plum tomatoes, sliced
½ c mayo
¼ c parmesan
2 T basil pesto
½ t salt and fresh pepper
3 T fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Optional: 2 eggs
Instructions:
Prick bottom of pie crust, brush edges with water. Bake at 425* for 8-10 minutes.
While crust is still warm, sprinkle with 1 c cheese; let cool for 15 minutes. While cooling, mix together remaining cheeses, mayo, and spices. If desired add eggs. I always desire more protein.
Arrange tomatoes over cheesy crust then pour cheesy, creamy filling over top.
Bake at 375* for 20-25 minutes. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil.
Commentary
While the recipe calls for plum tomatoes, I’ve used slicer tomatoes. They’re a bit more “juicy” than plum or Roma, but still delicious. I don’t have pesto currently. Or mayonnaise. So I’ll probably make mayo and add fresh basil to it while blending.
Generosity
Giving has been an integral part of my life as long as I can remember. Some of my earliest memories in church are of my grandmother giving my sister and I quarters to put in the offering. My parents also instilled in us the great value of generosity -- both to the church and community. I don’t share this as a humble brag but more a way of explanation.
When you make a purchase from me, whether it is a class, Beautycounter, or buying a meal locally, each month I am blessing someone else in return.
My husband and I have been involved with missions all our adult lives and are well connected all over the globe with real people who have real stories. Last month I gave to an organization in Kenya (run by a sharp indigenous couple, who were also formerly FamilyLife staff). They are seeing devastating hunger and are meeting real physical needs because of Covid.
This month I am choosing to bless a family of 5 we know - also in Africa, also former FamilyLife staff. They moved their 3 kids to Uganda while we were living in Fiji, 2 years ago to work at the Amazima School. Tory and I exchanged many texts during that season.
Some of you may remember the NYT bestseller Kisses from Katie about the 18yo from Nashville who went to Uganda and it forever changed the trajectory of her life. She adopted 12 girls before she was married.
My friends, the Angells, are now working at that school with that ministry. Also because of Covid, they are seeing utter devastation. I heard yesterday that the pandemic has set back humanitarian aid 10 years - across the globe.
If you want to join me in making a dent in poverty, the Angells are a trustworthy venture. They know how to get your cash in the hands of people who need it. You can follow them on Instagram too.
Hope this wasn’t too heavy. We can make a difference.
Let me know if you make the Tomato Pesto Tart.
-Julie