Sun-Dried Tomato And Basil Spread
A vibrant, flavorful spread combining sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and toasted pine nuts, perfect for adding a savory touch to pita or bread slices, ideal for snacks or appetizers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop all ingredients in a processor to a coarse paste.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread on pita or bread slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or a vegan alternative. You can substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds if needed. To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This spread also works well as a dip for fresh vegetables in addition to pita or bread slices.
Serving Suggestions
This sun-dried tomato and basil spread is perfect as an appetizer or snack. Serve it alongside a fresh Mediterranean recipe, like a refreshing Orange And Tomato Toss Salad, or pair it with grilled meats like Leg Of Lamb. It also makes a delightful sandwich spread or a tasty addition to a charcuterie board with cheeses.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain freshness, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing. When ready to use, simply stir and enjoy it cold, or let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes for better flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sun-Dried Tomato And Basil Spread contains roughly 599 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of oil-packed?
Yes, you can use dried sun-dried tomatoes; however, you'll need to soak them in hot water or broth for about 30 minutes to soften them before blending. This will help achieve a smoother consistency and better flavor in the spread.
How can I make this spread vegan?
The current recipe is already vegan, but if you want to enhance the creaminess, consider adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast or a vegan cream cheese alternative. This will provide an extra layer of flavor without compromising the vegan aspect of the dish.
What are some other uses for this spread?
Beyond spreading on pita or bread, you can use this sun-dried tomato and basil spread as a flavorful condiment for grilled vegetables, a topping for baked potatoes, or even as a filling in wraps. It also complements dishes like Gazpacho, adding a delicious twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).