This Easy Sicilian Tomato Pesto is a burst of fresh flavors! Made with sun-dried tomatoes, nuts, and some herbs, it’s perfect as a spread or sauce for pasta.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sun-dried Tomatoes: These are essential for a deep, rich flavor. If they’re not available, try using roasted red peppers instead, though the taste will be different.
Fresh Cherry or Ripe Tomatoes: I love using cherry tomatoes for their sweetness. If you can’t find them, any ripe, juicy tomato will work—just chop it smaller for easier blending.
Nuts: Toasted almonds add a nice crunch, but pine nuts are traditional in pestos. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds are a fantastic substitute!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best! If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the milk.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin is the way to go, as it gives the best taste. If you’re out, avocado oil or even a mild vegetable oil can do the trick!
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture in My Pesto?
Getting the right texture in your pesto is key to making it enjoyable. You want a combination of smooth and chunky—here’s how to do it:
- Start by pulsing your ingredients—don’t overdo it. A few quick pulses allow for some texture while breaking down the larger pieces.
- Drizzle in the olive oil gradually while the processor is running. This helps to emulsify the oil into your mixture smoothly.
- Stop blending once you see the pesto come together—it should be cohesive but still slightly chunky. You can always pulse a little more if you want it smoother!
Your preference matters—don’t shy away from tweaking it until it’s just right for you!
How to Make Easy Sicilian Tomato Pesto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pesto:
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
- 1/2 cup fresh cherry tomatoes (or ripe tomatoes), chopped
- 1/3 cup toasted almonds or pine nuts
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large garlic clove
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/3 – 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (adjust for desired consistency)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Sicilian Tomato Pesto recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and simple process, making it the perfect choice for a fast meal enhancement. Just blend the ingredients, and you’re ready to enjoy fresh flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by roughly chopping the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh tomatoes. This will help them blend more easily in the food processor, creating a smooth, well-combined pesto.
2. Blend the Base:
In a food processor, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, chopped cherry tomatoes, toasted almonds (or pine nuts), Parmesan cheese, garlic clove, and fresh basil leaves. Pulse the mixture a few times to start breaking down the ingredients.
3. Add the Olive Oil:
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. You can adjust the amount of oil based on how thick or smooth you want your pesto. Blend until it reaches your desired consistency, which should be smooth yet slightly textured.
4. Season the Pesto:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Season your pesto with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and if you like a little kick, add the red pepper flakes. Give it one last pulse to mix everything together.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your pesto a taste and adjust any seasoning as needed, adding a bit more salt or pepper if desired. It should be full of fresh, vibrant flavor!
6. Store and Enjoy:
Transfer the pesto to a clean jar or container for storage. This delightful sauce can be mixed into pasta, spread on bread, or used as a topping for grilled meats and veggies. To keep it fresh, cover the top with a thin layer of olive oil and store it in the refrigerator. Use it within a week for the best flavor.
Enjoy the fresh, bright, and slightly sweet-savory notes of this Sicilian tomato pesto—perfect for a quick and vibrant addition to your meals!
FAQ for Easy Sicilian Tomato Pesto
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
While fresh tomatoes can add flavor, they’re not a direct substitute for sun-dried tomatoes. The sun-dried variety provides a concentrated sweetness and depth that fresh tomatoes lack. If you want to include fresh tomatoes, consider using them alongside sun-dried tomatoes for a balanced flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Pesto?
Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep it fresh, cover it with a thin layer of olive oil before sealing the container. This prevents oxidation and keeps the pesto vibrant. Use it within a week for best quality.
Can I Freeze This Pesto for Later Use?
Absolutely! You can freeze pesto in an ice cube tray for individual portions, then transfer the frozen cubes to a zip-top bag. This way, you can easily use the amount you need without thawing the entire batch. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
What Can I Use This Pesto On Besides Pasta?
This Sicilian tomato pesto is versatile! Spread it on crusty bread for a delicious appetizer, use it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, stir it into soups for added flavor, or even drizzle it over roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
