Name: Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 18.5 ounces sun dried tomatoes (oil from jar included); 1 cup basil (packed); 1 small garlic clove; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

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When I think of summer, the first thing that comes to mind is the vibrant, fresh flavors of garden herbs, especially in my favorite dish: Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto. I remember my first experience with pesto; I was in a quaint little Italian bistro, and the rich, nutty aroma of basil filled the air. I was hooked! Now, every summer, I whip up a batch of this delightful sauce to enjoy over pasta, spread on crusty bread, or even as a dip for fresh veggies. The combination of sun dried tomatoes and fresh basil creates a unique flavor profile that dances on your taste buds. It’s an easy recipe that brings back happy memories of summer days spent cooking and sharing meals with friends. This Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto is not just a sauce; it’s a celebration of seasonal produce and a reminder to savor the simple pleasures of life.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
8 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor, Blender, Grater

Why This Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto Is So Good

Unforgettable Flavor

One of the main reasons I absolutely love Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto is its distinct flavor. The sun dried tomatoes add a sweet, tangy note, while the fresh basil rounds it out with herbal brightness. Together, they create a harmony that’s simply irresistible.

Versatility is Key

This pesto isn’t limited to pasta. I often use it as a spread on sandwiches or as a dip for crackers and vegetables. It adds a gourmet touch to any dish, making it a fantastic staple in my kitchen.

Easy to Prepare

Making Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto is incredibly straightforward! With just a few ingredients and a food processor, you can whip up a batch in minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.

Great for Meal Prep

This pesto stores wonderfully! I typically spoon it into ice cube trays and freeze it for later use. That way, I can enjoy the taste of summer even in the colder months.

Health Benefits

With ingredients like basil and tomatoes, this pesto is not just delicious but also packed with health benefits. Basil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants.

Impressive Presentation

Finally, Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto looks gorgeous! The vibrant red and green colors make it a feast for the eyes, adding elegance to any dish you serve it with.

Main Ingredients for Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto

The beauty of Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that rich and aromatic blend. The key players include sun dried tomatoes, which provide sweetness and depth, and fresh basil, known for its aromatic qualities. Together, they create a sauce that not only enhances your dishes but also embodies the essence of summer.

18.5 ounces of sun dried tomatoes (oil from jar included) – These tomatoes bring a concentrated flavor and a touch of sweetness that’s essential for a rich pesto.
1 cup of basil, packed – Fresh basil adds vibrant flavor and aroma, making the pesto truly refreshing.
1 small garlic clove – Just a touch of garlic enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
1/2 cup of parmesan cheese, grated – This brings a nutty, umami richness that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt – A little salt enhances all the flavors and rounds out the dish perfectly.

The Process for Making Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto

Creating your own Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto is a rewarding experience that’s surprisingly simple. Follow these steps to craft this delicious sauce that you’ll want to keep on hand. Let’s dive in!

Start by gathering all your ingredients: sun dried tomatoes, basil, garlic, parmesan cheese, and kosher salt. This way, you won’t miss anything during the process.
Next, take a food processor and add the sun dried tomatoes, packing them tightly. Don’t forget to include the oil from the jar, as it adds richness to your pesto.
Add the packed basil to the processor. The aroma will be intoxicating! This is where the fresh flavor comes from.
Now, peel and add the garlic clove. This small ingredient packs a powerful punch of flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
Next, sprinkle in the parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully when mixed, providing a creamy texture.
Finally, add the kosher salt. This will bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Secure the lid on your food processor and pulse the mixture. You want to blend it until it’s smooth but still has a little texture. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides to ensure everything is incorporated.
If the pesto seems too thick, feel free to drizzle in a bit more oil until you achieve your desired consistency. This is where you can customize it just how you like.
Once blended, taste your Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Maybe a pinch more salt or a little more cheese?
Transfer the pesto to a container. I love using small jars for easy storage. It’s ready to enjoy over pasta, on bread, or even as a dip!

Things Worth Knowing

When blending the pesto, be cautious with the amount of oil you add. A small amount can make a big difference in consistency.
Feel free to experiment with additional herbs, such as arugula or parsley, to create your own twist on traditional pesto.
For a nutty flavor, consider adding pine nuts or walnuts to the mix. Just be sure to adjust the amount of oil in the recipe accordingly.
If you want to make your pesto vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Adapting Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto can be a fun way to explore new flavors. Here are some tips to make this recipe your own:

Storage: Transfer any leftover pesto to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezing: Spoon the pesto into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once solid, store cubes in a freezer bag for up to six months.
Pairing: This pesto pairs beautifully with grilled meats and fish. Try it as a marinade or finishing sauce!
Variations: For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Presentation: Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top of your pesto before serving to enhance the visual appeal.

Accompaniments for Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto

Serving Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Here are some delightful options:

Pasta Dishes: Toss it with your favorite pasta, adding a splash of pasta water to help the sauce cling.
Bruschetta: Spread it on toasted baguette slices for an elegant appetizer at parties.
Sandwiches: Use it as a flavorful spread on sandwiches or wraps to elevate your lunch.
Grilled Veggies: Drizzle it over grilled vegetables for a fresh, vibrant side dish.
Soups: Stir a spoonful into soups for an extra burst of flavor.
Cheese Boards: Include it in a cheese board for a unique dipping option.
Picnics: It’s perfect for picnics—just pack it in a jar for easy transport and serve with crusty bread.

FAQ

You can serve Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto with a variety of dishes! It’s fantastic over pasta, as a spread on sandwiches, or even as a dip for fresh vegetables. You might also try it on grilled meats or as a dressing for salads. Its versatility makes it a great addition to any meal.

To store leftover Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last for about one week. For longer storage, spoon the pesto into an ice cube tray, freeze until solid, and then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. This allows you to use small portions as needed!

Absolutely! Freezing Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto is a great way to preserve its freshness. Just spoon it into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Once frozen, pop the cubes into a freezer bag for easy storage. You can enjoy your pesto for up to six months! Simply defrost overnight in the fridge or toss a cube in with hot pasta to thaw it quickly.

Yes, Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto can be a healthy addition to your meals! It contains fresh ingredients like basil and tomatoes, which are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The parmesan cheese adds some healthy fats and calcium. Just keep portion sizes in mind, as it is calorie-dense due to the oil and cheese.

Conclusion

This Sun Dried Tomato Basil Pesto is a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of summer. It’s easy to make and offers endless possibilities for serving. Whether you’re dressing up a simple pasta dish or spreading it on crusty bread, this pesto will elevate your meals. I encourage you to try making it at home—you’ll be amazed at how simple it is and how delicious it turns out!