Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto

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Bowl of Mediterranean sun-dried tomato pesto with fresh herbs and ingredients.

Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: A Taste of the South

Summer brings a breath of fresh air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a quick and versatile pesto? This sun-dried tomato pesto is not your usual sauce. Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s perfect for topping pasta, spreading on bruschetta, or adding flavor to salads. Plus, it keeps in the fridge for days, filling your kitchen with the vibrant scents of the Mediterranean.

Ingredients

For this delightful pesto, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 150 g of sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil) (about 5.3 oz)
  • 40 g of peeled almonds (about 1.4 oz)
  • 40 g of grated Parmesan cheese (about 1.4 oz)
  • 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (about 60 ml)
  • 1/2 clove of garlic
  • Fresh basil leaves to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Nutritional Information

  • Calories per 100 g: Approximately 280 kcal
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 0 minutes (raw preparation)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Rehydrate the sun-dried tomatoes: Begin by placing the sun-dried tomatoes in a bowl of hot water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes until softened. Once rehydrated, drain and squeeze them to remove excess water.

  2. Combine ingredients: In a food processor or blender, add the rehydrated tomatoes, peeled almonds, a pinch of freshly ground black pepper, and the extra virgin olive oil.

  3. Add cheese and garlic: Next, incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese, half a clove of garlic, and a handful of fresh basil leaves into the mixture.

  4. Blend to perfection: Blend all the ingredients together until you achieve a creamy yet slightly grainy consistency. If you desire a thinner pesto, feel free to drizzle in another tablespoon of olive oil while blending.

  5. Serve and garnish: Transfer the pesto to a serving bowl and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves on top.

Storage and Use

This pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, use a sterilized, airtight glass jar and cover the surface of the pesto with a thin layer of extra virgin olive oil before sealing.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  1. Customize your flavor: Experiment with different nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for a unique twist on the traditional flavor profile of pesto.

  2. Freshness counts: Use fresh basil leaves for a more vibrant and aromatic pesto. If basil isn’t in season, consider substituting with spinach or arugula for a different green taste.

  3. Serve warm: For a delicious dish, combine the pesto with warm pasta right after cooking. The heat allows the oils in the pesto to release their enriching flavors, enhancing the overall dish.

Variations

  1. Add more greens: For a richer texture and added nutrition, consider folding in cooked spinach or kale into the pesto for a vibrant green variation.

  2. Tuna twist: For an extra protein boost, mix in some drained canned tuna. This variation not only enhances the flavor but turns the pesto into a heartier dish, perfect for sandwiches or as a filling for wraps.

Experience the essence of the Mediterranean in just a few minutes with this sun-dried tomato pesto. Its versatility allows it to shine across different meals, making it the perfect addition to your summer recipes. Enjoy the convenience of having this flavorful pesto ready in your fridge, bringing Italy right to your table.