This recipe takes me straight back to the kind of kitchen where the laughter is loud, the coffee is always hot, and nobody ever leaves hungry. It was inspired by my great Southern friend, Jean Little, who has always had that effortless way of turning simple ingredients into something that feels like comfort, tradition, and love all in one bite. Jean’s recipes weren’t just meals—they were moments you make when family’s coming over, when neighbors pop in unexpectedly, or when you simply want to fill your home with that cozy smell that says, everything’s going to be alright. I had so much fun adding my own touches, because that’s the Southern way—recipes are meant to be shared, tweaked, passed down, and made yours. And every time I make this one, it tastes like a little piece of friendship, a little piece of home, and a whole lot of heart. Margi Kyle
Sprinkle them with salt- Jane’s Krazy salt. Let them sit for 20 minutes and put paper toweling on top to absorb the extra juice from the tomatoes.
Serves 8 and you will love it.
1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella, divided
3 to 4 medium Beef steak tomatoes, thinly sliced — I sprinkle them with salt- Jane’s Krazy salt. Let them sit for 20 minutes and put paper toweling on top to absorb the extra juice from the tomatoes.
1/3 cup thinly sliced Vidalia onion
½ cup Caesar salad dressing — I use Marie’s from the refrigerator section.
1 Tablespoon Fresh basil leaves, or to taste — I love lots.
1 Tablespoon Jane’s Krazy Mixed up Salt and Pepper.
1 Teaspoon Black Garlic Salt, or to taste — order on line or go to the Savory Spices store in Birkdale Village.
Preheat oven to 400F.
Bake pie crust 10 to 12 minutes, until golden. Cool on wire rack.
Reduce oven temperature to 350F. Brush olive oil on the bottom of the pie crust. Then sprinkle half of mozzarella on bottom of cooled pie crust.
Top with tomato slices and arrange onion slices evenly over tomatoes.
Bake 40 to 45 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown. Sprinkle Olive Oil over it and cut up fresh basil on top.
After you make it — if you are not pure Southern — you will be!
Enjoy!!!
Spice up your Sundays with Margi Kyle! Gather around for tasty recipes, lively kitchen chatter, and clever shortcuts that make cooking feel like a breeze. Margi’s stories, tips, and creative ideas help everyone—whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out—whip up unforgettable meals with a splash of fun. Each Sunday brings a new adventure and another delicious reason to smile around the table.
Photo courtesy of Deborah Young Studio
Margi Kyle, known as “The Color Doctor,” is the engaging host of LKNConnect’s popular shows “People in the Know” and “Sunday Recipes”. With an acclaimed career spanning more than 45 years, Margi brings a designer’s eye and a deep passion for color to every conversation and culinary adventure. A renowned Professional Interior Designer, Margi’s contributions include roles as television host, mentor, keynote speaker, educator, and writer
