Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pesto (Recipe)

This vegan sun-dried tomato pesto recipe is a delicious and versatile twist on classic pesto. Made with basil, sun-dried tomatoes, nutritional yeast, pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, it is dairy-free, vegan, and packed with flavor. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy taste and extra nutrients, while the sun-dried tomatoes provide a savory umami flavor. The pesto can be used as a sauce for pasta dishes, as a spread for sandwiches, or as a dip. It’s easy to make in a food processor and can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 6 months.

Key Takeaways:

• This vegan sun-dried tomato pesto recipe is a delicious and versatile plant-based option for those following a dairy-free lifestyle.
• The combination of fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, nutritional yeast, and other flavorful ingredients adds depth and tanginess to any dish.
• This homemade pesto sauce can be used as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or dip.
• The pesto is easy to make in a food processor and can be stored for future use.
• Experiment with different variations and get creative with incorporating this vegan sun-dried tomato pesto into your meals.

Ingredients for Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pesto

To make this vegan sun-dried tomato pesto, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably oil-packed)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons water (optional)

The nutritional yeast acts as a dairy-free alternative to cheese and adds a cheesy flavor to the pesto. The basil provides a fresh and herby taste, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a rich and savory flavor. The pine nuts give the pesto a creamy texture, and the garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper enhance the overall taste. Olive oil is used to bind the ingredients together, and water can be added to adjust the consistency of the pesto.

“Fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and nutritional yeast make this vegan sun-dried tomato pesto a flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional pesto recipes.”

Instructions for Making Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pesto

To make this vegan sun-dried tomato pesto, follow these simple instructions:

1. Add all the ingredients (except for the oil and water) into a food processor.
2. Process everything until it is combined and smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. While the food processor is running, drizzle in the olive oil to create a creamy texture.
4. If needed, add water gradually to adjust the consistency of the pesto.
5. Continue to process the mixture until the pesto reaches your desired smoothness.
6. Once ready, transfer the pesto to a glass container.
7. Store the vegan sun-dried tomato pesto in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
8. Serve the pesto as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for vegetables.

Enjoy the delicious flavors of this homemade, plant-based pesto sauce!

Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of this vegan sun-dried tomato pesto recipe. This easy-to-follow recipe combines fresh basil, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and a blend of other wholesome ingredients to create a mouthwatering sauce that will elevate your dishes. Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free pesto or a healthy pasta sauce, this recipe is a must-try.

Variations and Uses for Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pesto

This vegan sun-dried tomato pesto is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways to add a burst of flavor to your dishes. Here are some delicious variations and uses for this plant-based pesto:

Serve with Quinoa Pizza Crust

Spread a generous amount of vegan sun-dried tomato pesto onto a gluten-free quinoa pizza crust for a flavorful and satisfying pizza. Top it with your favorite veggies, vegan cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.

Toss with Pasta

Cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions, then toss it with a generous amount of homemade sun-dried tomato pesto sauce. The creamy and tangy flavors will elevate any pasta dish into a restaurant-worthy meal.

Grilled Vegetables Marinade

Marinate your favorite vegetables in a mixture of olive oil and sun-dried tomato pesto before grilling them. The pesto adds a rich and smoky flavor to the vegetables, making them the perfect side dish or addition to salads.

Spread on Sandwiches and Wraps

Take your sandwiches and wraps to the next level by spreading a layer of vegan sun-dried tomato pesto onto the bread or wrap. It adds a burst of umami flavor and pairs well with a variety of fillings such as grilled veggies, tofu, or tempeh.

Use as a Tart Filling

Create a savory tart by spreading a layer of vegan sun-dried tomato pesto onto a prepared pastry crust and topping it with roasted vegetables, vegan cheese, or tofu. Bake until the crust is golden and the flavors are melded together.

Dip for Carrot Sticks

Make a healthy snack by using the sun-dried tomato pesto as a dip for carrot sticks. It adds a flavorful and nutritious twist to your veggie snacks.

“The possibilities are endless, and the pesto provides a burst of flavor to any dish.”

As you can see, this homemade pesto sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways to enhance the taste of your favorite dishes. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to discover new and exciting uses for this delicious sun-dried tomato pesto recipe.

Conclusion

This vegan sun-dried tomato pesto recipe is the perfect addition to any plant-based or dairy-free lifestyle. The combination of fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, nutritional yeast, and other flavorful ingredients creates a savory and tangy pesto that can enhance a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking for a delicious pasta sauce, a flavorful sandwich spread, or a zesty dip, this homemade pesto sauce checks all the boxes.

The best part? Making this vegan sun-dried tomato pesto is incredibly easy. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of this delicious sauce in no time. Plus, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for future use, giving you the flexibility to enjoy its vibrant flavors whenever you desire.

Not only does this vegan pesto recipe taste amazing, but it also provides a healthy alternative to traditional pesto sauces. By eliminating dairy products and incorporating nutrient-rich ingredients like nutritional yeast, this pesto is not only flavorful but also packed with plant-based goodness. So go ahead, get creative, and explore the versatility of this vegan sun-dried tomato pesto. Your taste buds will thank you!