Pesto from Dried Tomatoes

 Ingredients: 200g dried tomatoes, one clove of garlic, parmesan, olive oil, pine nuts; if you like, you can also add a bit of red hot pepper, I didn't add dried basil.

Tomato pesto is a delicious and flavorful choice for your favorite pasta. This dish is not only quick to make, but it is also an explosion of tastes, perfect for a savory meal. We will start with the basic ingredients, and then we will dive into the simple preparation process.

To achieve a truly delicious tomato pesto, you need about 500 grams of ripe tomatoes, preferably cherry or meaty tomatoes, which have an intense flavor. Additionally, don’t forget the essential ingredients, such as 50 grams of nuts, which add a crunchy texture and a special taste. And for an extra hint of flavor, you will need to include 2-3 cloves of garlic, which will give that specific touch of savor. Extra virgin olive oil is crucial to bind all these ingredients, so make sure you have about 100 milliliters on hand. Also, a pinch of freshly ground pepper can add a touch of intensity.

Start by washing the tomatoes and cutting them in half or quarters to make them easier to blend. Place them in a blender, along with the nuts, garlic, and pepper. Gradually add the olive oil while blending the ingredients until you achieve a smooth paste. As for the consistency, it can be adjusted according to your personal preferences. If you like a creamier pesto, you can add more oil.

Once you have the perfect paste, it's time to cook the pasta. Choose the type of pasta you like best, whether it’s spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. Boil them according to the package instructions, but do not add salt to the water, as the tomatoes in the pesto already have a natural salt content. Once the pasta is cooked al dente, drain it and add it directly to the bowl with the pesto. Mix well so that each strand of pasta is coated with that rich and aromatic sauce.

To crown the dish, you can add a few tablespoons of sour cream, which will bring a creamy note and balance the flavors. This tomato pesto is versatile and can also be used as a sauce for bruschetta or as a dressing for salads. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe that will surely impress anyone who tastes it!

 Tags:  garlic tomatoes pepper oil olives gluten-free recipes vegetarian recipes