Prepare to revolutionize your sauce game with a mind-blowing Sun Dried Tomato Cilantro Pesto that will make your taste buds dance! This isn't just another boring condiment – this is a flavor explosion that transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. Imagine a vibrant, rich pesto that combines the intense sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the bright freshness of cilantro, and the deep, nutty undertones of toasted walnuts. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will elevate your cooking from mundane to magnificent in just minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup sun dried tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by gathering all components: sun-dried tomatoes, fresh cilantro, walnuts, garlic, olive oil, and salt.
- If using dried sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will enhance their nutty flavor. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves to help them blend more easily.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, cilantro, toasted walnuts, and garlic to a food processor or high-powered blender.
- Pulse the ingredients several times to create a coarse mixture.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture becomes smooth and well-combined.
- Stop and scrape down the sides of the processor with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
- Taste the pesto and add salt gradually, blending and tasting until the seasoning is perfect.
- Transfer the pesto to a clean glass jar or airtight container. If not using immediately, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Bring to room temperature and stir before serving.
Tips
- Pro tips to make your Sun Dried Tomato Cilantro Pesto absolutely perfect:
- Always toast your walnuts – this simple step dramatically enhances their flavor and adds a delightful depth to your pesto.
- If using dried sun-dried tomatoes, ensure they're thoroughly rehydrated and well-drained to prevent a watery consistency.
- Use a high-powered food processor or blender for the smoothest texture.
- Drizzle olive oil slowly while blending to create a perfectly emulsified sauce.
- Taste and adjust salt gradually to achieve the perfect seasoning.
- Store with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation and maintain freshness.
- This versatile pesto is amazing on pasta, as a spread, in sandwiches, or as a dip – get creative!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
