As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of fresh basil took me on a nostalgic journey through sun-kissed Italian landscapes. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce, a vibrant mix that brings the essence of summer right onto your plate. This irresistibly creamy pesto is not only quick to whip up in just 10 minutes but also offers a hearty Whole-Food Plant-Based version, making it perfect for pasta lovers and health enthusiasts alike. Imagine elevating your sandwiches or drizzling this tangy sauce over salads—it’s a delightful twist that will turn any ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast. Are you ready to explore the beautiful layers of flavor this vegan concoction has to offer? Let’s dive in!
What Makes This Pesto Sauce Special?
Bold flavors: The rich, tangy sun dried tomatoes paired with aromatic basil create a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Quick & easy: In just 10 minutes, you can prepare this vibrant pesto sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Versatile delight: Use it as a sauce for pasta, a spread on sandwiches, or a zesty addition to salads. The options are endless!
Plant-based goodness: This recipe includes a Whole-Food Plant-Based option, allowing everyone to enjoy its creamy texture without compromising their dietary preferences.
Crowd-pleaser: With its rich taste and lovely color, this Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce is sure to impress friends and family, turning any meal into a feast. Consider pairing it with Crockpot Marry Sauce for an Italian-inspired dinner that everyone will love!
Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce Ingredients
• Elevate your dishes with these essentials!
For the Pesto
- Sun Dried Tomatoes – Core flavor and texture; use tomatoes packed in olive oil for a richer taste or opt for plain for a WFPB version.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds freshness and herbal notes; always use fresh for the best flavor.
- Pine Nuts – Provide creaminess and a nutty flavor; toast before use for an enhanced taste or substitute with walnuts or almonds for variety.
- Garlic (2-3 cloves) – Essential for depth and aroma; grating helps ensure even dispersion in your pesto.
- Vegan Parmesan (1/3 cup) – Offers a savory umami punch; choose store-bought or whip up a homemade version.
- Fresh Oregano (1 tbsp, optional) – Enhances herbaceous undertones; feel free to omit if you don’t have it on hand.
- Sea Salt (1 pinch or to taste) – Elevates the overall flavor; adjust according to the saltiness of the other components.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (4-5 tbsp) – Adds richness and smoothness; adjust for consistency; for a WFPB option, replace with reserved soaking water.
Discover how easy it is to create your own delicious Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce that will make any meal shine!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Drain the sun dried tomatoes if they’re packed in oil, allowing extra liquid to escape. If using plain sun dried tomatoes, soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes until softened. Once they are tender, drain again, keeping some soaking liquid if you prefer the Whole-Food Plant-Based (WFPB) version for consistency.
Step 2: Gather Ingredients
While the tomatoes are soaking, measure out the remaining ingredients needed for the Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce. This includes fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and vegan parmesan. Lay everything out so you can easily access them when it’s time to blend, ensuring a smooth workflow.
Step 3: Combine in Food Processor
In a food processor, combine the drained sun dried tomatoes, fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and vegan parmesan. Drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil, or if you’re making the WFPB version, add in the reserved soaking water instead. Pulse the mixture until it starts to break down, around 15 to 20 seconds, blending the vibrant colors together.
Step 4: Blend to Desired Consistency
Continue processing the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. If the pesto is too thick, slowly add more olive oil or reserved soaking water, blending after each addition until creamy. Be attentive to the texture; it should be smooth yet thick enough to cling to your favorite pasta or spread on a sandwich.
Step 5: Season to Perfection
Taste your delightful Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of sea salt. Mix thoroughly, checking if more salt is needed based on your preference or the saltiness of your vegan parmesan. This is an important step that enhances the overall flavor profile of your homemade pesto.
Step 6: Store and Serve
Transfer the pesto to an airtight jar for storage. If not serving immediately, refrigerate for up to a week. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow the sauce to come to room temperature, making it easier to drizzle or spread over your favorite dishes, elevating your meals with its rich, tangy taste.
What to Serve with Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce
Elevate your meal with these delightful pairings that complement the rich, vibrant flavors of this creamy pesto.
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Whole Wheat Pasta: Tossed together, they create a satisfying texture that holds onto the pesto beautifully. A wholesome choice for a comforting meal!
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add smoky notes to balance the tangy pesto. A colorful, healthy side option!
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Zucchini Noodles: For a light and fresh option, these noodles provide a delightful crunch and soak up the flavors of the pesto perfectly. A guilt-free twist on traditional pasta!
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Crunchy Crostini: Spread the pesto on toasted bread for a flavorful appetizer. The crunchy texture pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
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Chickpea Salad: This protein-packed salad combined with the pesto adds a satisfying richness and bursts of flavor, making for a delightful lunch.
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Citrusy Arugula Salad: The peppery arugula, when dressed lightly, complements the richness of the pesto. A refreshing contrast worth exploring!
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Savory Vegan Pizza: Spread the pesto as a base sauce on a pizza, topped with your favorite veggies. It transforms any pizza night into a gourmet experience.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light sorbet adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty pesto, cleansing the palate beautifully. A perfect finish to a lovely meal!
Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your pesto sauce with these exciting twists!
- Nut-Free Delight: Substitute pine nuts with sunflower seeds for a similar creamy texture that’s perfect for nut allergies.
- Creamy Avocado: Blend in half a ripe avocado for a rich, creamy twist that adds a silky texture and healthy fats.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chopped jalapeños to heat things up. You’ll love the vibrant flavor!
- Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley in place of basil for a unique flavor profile. This can completely transform the taste!
- Lemon Zing: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the sauce and balance the richness beautifully.
- Flavorful Cheese: Mix in a bit of nutritional yeast for extra cheesy flavor, perfect for maintaining that vegan vibe. If you want a non-vegan option, consider grated parmesan for added umami.
- Pasta Partner: Stir in freshly cooked pasta directly into your blended pesto for a quick, creamy meal. You’ll savor each luscious bite!
- Savory Additions: Blend in roasted red peppers or spinach to increase the nutritional value and add fresh flavors. This is a great way to incorporate veggies into your meal!
Want more inspiration? You can serve this lovely pesto with Bacon Ranch Pasta for a delightful pairing that everyone will adore! Don’t forget to check out the incredible flavors of Sun Dried Tomato in other recipes too!
How to Store and Freeze Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce
Fridge: Store your Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pesto in ice cube trays, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. This allows for convenient portioning anytime.
Reheating: When ready to use, thaw the frozen pesto overnight in the fridge or heat briefly in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
Tip: Always allow refrigerated pesto to come to room temperature before using for easier spreading or drizzling.
Expert Tips for Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce
- Drain Well: Ensure your sun dried tomatoes are well-drained to achieve a thicker pesto. Excess moisture can lead to a runny sauce.
- Garlic Level: Adjust the number of garlic cloves according to your flavor preference; use fewer for a milder taste, or add more for a punchy kick.
- Storage Savvy: Store your Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. Let it reach room temperature before using for easier spreading.
- Texture Check: If the pesto feels too thick, gradually add more olive oil or reserved soaking water until you achieve that dreamy, creamy consistency.
- Experiment with Nuts: Try substituting pine nuts with walnuts or almonds for different flavor notes. Toasting them beforehand can elevate the taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce preparations are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the entire pesto sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. For optimal flavor, let it sit covered for at least an hour before using, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully. If you want to prep even further ahead, consider making the pesto and freezing individual portions in ice cube trays to use as needed. When ready to serve or cook, simply thaw the desired amount at room temperature or in the fridge overnight, and enjoy the vibrant flavors just as delicious as when freshly made!
Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of sun dried tomatoes should I use?
I recommend using sun dried tomatoes that are packed in olive oil for a richer flavor. However, if you’re going for a Whole-Food Plant-Based (WFPB) approach, opt for the plain ones and soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes to rehydrate before using.
How long can I store the pesto sauce in the refrigerator?
You can store your Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before using; this will help with spreading and drizzling.
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Can I freeze Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce?
Absolutely! For longer shelf life, freeze the pesto in ice cube trays to create convenient portions. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag, and they can last up to 3 months. When you want to use it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or quickly warm in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
What should I do if my pesto is too thick?
If you find your Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce is thicker than you’d like, just add a bit more olive oil or reserved soaking water. Start with a tablespoon at a time, blending in between, until you reach the desired creamy consistency.
Is this pesto safe for my pets and its allergies?
While this Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce is vegan and free from animal products, ensure none of the specific ingredients are harmful to your pets. Particularly the garlic, which can be toxic to dogs. If baking for someone with allergies, double-check each ingredient for possible allergens.
Can I adjust the flavor profile of this pesto?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by substituting pine nuts with walnuts or almonds for different nutty flavors, or incorporate spinach or arugula instead of basil for a unique twist. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the sauce’s flavor beautifully!
Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Drain the sun dried tomatoes if they’re packed in oil. If using plain tomatoes, soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes until softened.
- Measure out the remaining ingredients needed for the Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce.
- In a food processor, combine the drained sun dried tomatoes, fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and vegan parmesan. Drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil or reserved soaking water.
- Continue processing the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. Adjust with more olive oil or reserved soaking water if too thick.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of sea salt.
- Transfer the pesto to an airtight jar for storage. Refrigerate for up to a week.
