A Delicious Tomato Galette Recipe for Summer Gatherings

Summer is the perfect time for outdoor gatherings, and nothing complements the warm weather better than a fresh, homemade tomato galette. This savory pie is not only easy to make but also bursting with the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create a delicious tomato galette that will impress your guests and become a staple at your summer parties.

Ingredients for the Tomato Galette

To make this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1/4 cup ice water
2-3 large ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Start by preparing the dough for the galette. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preheat the Oven

While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

3. Assemble the Galette

Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Transfer the rolled dough to the prepared baking sheet. Arrange the tomato slices in an overlapping pattern, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. Fold the Edges

Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the tomatoes, pleating as necessary to create a rustic edge. Brush the folded edges with the beaten egg to give the crust a golden-brown finish.

5. Bake the Galette

Bake the galette in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the tomatoes are tender. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This tomato galette is best served warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a chilled glass of white wine. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Tips for the Perfect Tomato Galette

Here are some tips to ensure your tomato galette turns out perfectly every time:

Use ripe tomatoes: The quality of the tomatoes makes a significant difference in flavor. Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best results.
Prevent a soggy crust: To avoid a soggy bottom, you can sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or cornmeal on the dough before adding the tomatoes.
Experiment with herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as oregano, rosemary, or parsley to customize the flavor to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust if you’re short on time. However, homemade crust tends to have a better texture and flavor.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.