Dried Tomato Pesto

Introducing a flavorful twist to the classic pesto sauce with a recipe that will elevate your pasta dishes and appetizers to a whole new level of deliciousness. Dried Tomato Pesto is a versatile and vibrant condiment that adds a punch of umami-rich flavor to your favorite dishes. Made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, basil, Parmesan cheese, and nuts, this pesto is easy to prepare and can be stored for later use. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this mouthwatering Dried Tomato Pesto.

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil), soaked in hot water for 15 minutes and drained
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** Start by soaking the sun-dried tomatoes in a bowl of hot water for about 15 minutes. This step helps to soften the tomatoes and enhance their flavor.

2. **Toast the Nuts:** In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts or walnuts until they turn lightly golden and fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent burning. This toasting process helps bring out the nutty flavors and adds depth to the pesto.

3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a food processor, combine the soaked sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and toasted nuts.

4. **Blend Until Coarse Paste Forms:** Pulse the ingredients in the food processor until a coarse paste starts to form. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly blended.

5. **Stream in Olive Oil:** With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil. Continue processing until the mixture is well combined and reaches your desired consistency. Add more olive oil if needed to achieve a smoother texture.

6. **Season to Taste:** Taste the pesto and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to suit your preference and blend again if necessary to incorporate the flavors.

7. **Serve or Store:** Your Dried Tomato Pesto is now ready to be enjoyed! Toss it with cooked pasta, spread it on sandwiches, mix it into scrambled eggs, or use it as a flavorful dip. Store any leftover pesto in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

This vibrant Dried Tomato Pesto is a great way to add a burst of sun-kissed flavor to your meals, bringing a taste of summer to any season. Experiment with different dishes and get creative in incorporating this delicious pesto into your culinary creations. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich, aromatic profile. Enjoy the process of making this homemade pesto and savor the fruits of your labor as you indulge in its irresistible taste.

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