As the rich aroma of sun-dried tomatoes wafts through my kitchen, I recall a summer trip to Italy, where I first discovered the delights of Pesto Rosso. This Creamy Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce is not just a nod to Italian cuisine; it’s a treasure trove of flavors that transforms any meal into a celebration. With just a few simple ingredients, this luscious sauce can elevate a quick weeknight dinner or impress guests at your next gathering. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—whether you’re tossing it with pasta, spreading it on sandwiches, or using it as a dip, you’re in for a treat. Best of all, I’ve included a Whole Food Plant-Based option, so everyone can enjoy a delectable bite. Curious how to whip up this vibrant sauce? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Pesto Sauce So Special?

Vibrant Flavors: This sun-dried tomato pesto sauce bursts with the rich, tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes blended with fresh basil and garlic, creating an unforgettable flavor explosion.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in no time.
Versatile Delight: Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, spreading on a sandwich, or using as a dip, it elevates every dish it graces.
Plant-Based Option: With a Whole Food Plant-Based version available, everyone can indulge without compromise! For more tasty ideas, check out my Garlic Pizza Sauce to pair perfectly with this pesto.
Impressive Appeal: Serve it at your next gathering and watch your guests rave about this unique condiment that feels gourmet yet so easy to make!

Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce Ingredients

• Ready to create your own creamy delight? Here’s what you’ll need to make this fabulous sun dried tomato pesto sauce!

For the Pesto Base

Sun-Dried Tomatoes – The star ingredient that brings rich umami flavors; choose oil-packed for a creamy texture or plain for a Whole Food Plant-Based version.
Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds aromatic freshness; use only the freshest to make your pesto truly shine.
Pine Nuts – Contributes creaminess and a delightful nutty flavor; feel free to swap with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
Garlic – Infuses a robust depth of flavor; grate it for even distribution in your sauce.
Vegan Parmesan – Provides a cheesy essence; for a lighter flavor, substitute with nutritional yeast.
Fresh Oregano Leaves – Optional, but adds a note of Mediterranean goodness to your pesto.
Sea Salt – Balances the flavors beautifully; adjust to your taste preference.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds smoothness and richness; add more for desired consistency in your sauce.

Now you have everything you need to whip up your delicious sun dried tomato pesto sauce!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce

Step 1: Drain and Prep
Begin by draining oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes thoroughly, ensuring excess oil is removed. If using plain sun-dried tomatoes for the Whole Food Plant-Based version, rehydrate them by soaking in hot water for 20 minutes. This step ensures a smoother texture in your sun-dried tomato pesto sauce. Once ready, chop the tomatoes roughly to aid blending.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a food processor, add the soaked sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, grated garlic, and optional fresh oregano leaves. Pour in a generous splash of extra virgin olive oil for smoothness. Secure the lid and pulse the mixture a few times to begin breaking down the ingredients, allowing the vivid flavors of the sun-dried tomatoes and herbs to mingle.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Continue to blend the mixture on high until it transforms into a creamy pesto consistency. This should take about 30–60 seconds, but pause occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. If the pesto sauce seems too thick, add a bit more olive oil or reserved water from the sun-dried tomato soaking process to achieve your desired texture.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
After blending, taste your sun-dried tomato pesto sauce and adjust seasoning as needed by adding sea salt. This is crucial for enhancing the sauce’s flavors. Blend again briefly to incorporate any additional salt. The result should be a vibrant, flavorful sauce with a creamy texture, perfect for tossing with pasta or spreading on fresh bread.

Step 5: Store and Serve
Transfer the sun-dried tomato pesto sauce into a clean jar and seal tightly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. This lovely sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, making it a fabulous make-ahead option. Use it on pasta, as a dip, or in sandwiches for an instant flavor boost!

How to Store and Freeze Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce

Fridge: Store your sun dried tomato pesto sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 week. The flavors may deepen over time, enhancing its deliciousness.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy this tasty pesto later, freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To use frozen pesto, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or heat in a microwave until warm. Add a splash of olive oil if it appears thick after thawing.

Shelf Life: Always check for freshness before use, particularly if your pesto has been stored for more than a week in the fridge.

Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful sauce and personalize it to match your taste preferences!

Nut-Free: Replace pine nuts with sunflower seeds for a budget-friendly, creamy alternative.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that enhances the overall taste.
Lemon Zest: Incorporate the zest of one lemon for a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness.
Spinach Pesto: Blend in fresh spinach for a nutrient boost and a lovely green color; it pairs beautifully with the sun-dried tomatoes.

Remember, adjusting the ingredients can transform this already delightful sauce into something uniquely yours!

For another captivating sauce, try combining this pesto with my Pillows Parmesan Sauce for an unconventional twist.

Herb Infusion: Swap fresh basil for arugula or parsley for a different herbal touch and flavor profile.
Creamy Add-On: Mix in a dollop of cashew cream for extra richness and a slightly different texture.
Garlic Kick: Increase the garlic to suit your taste—roasted garlic adds a milder, sweeter flavor that’s totally irresistible!

Enjoy crafting your own variations of this sun dried tomato pesto sauce while indulging in flavors that tell a story with each bite!

Expert Tips for Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes yield the best flavor. Avoid using wilted herbs for optimal taste.

• Hydration Matters: For the Whole Food Plant-Based version, ensure plain sun-dried tomatoes are fully hydrated to prevent graininess in your pesto sauce.

• Avoid Over-Processing: Blend just until smooth; over-processing can lead to a paste-like texture instead of the desired creamy consistency.

• Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds for a unique twist on your sun dried tomato pesto sauce.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; a pinch more sea salt can enhance the vibrant flavors beautifully.

• Proper Storage: Store your pesto in an airtight container and drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top for extended freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can easily prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance, ensuring that you have a flavorful, ready-to-use condiment on hand. Simply follow the recipe instructions through to the blending stage, then transfer the pesto into an airtight container and refrigerate immediately to maintain its vibrant color and taste. This sauce will taste just as delicious and might even deepen in flavor after chilling. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir the pesto well and toss it with your favorite pasta, spread it on sandwiches, or use it as a dip, and enjoy the gourmet experience with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Creamy Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce

Elevate your meal with delightful sides that perfectly complement the rich flavors of this luscious vegan sauce.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy, buttery potatoes provide a comforting contrast, perfectly capturing the savory notes of the pesto.
Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the crunch of warm garlic bread, ready to soak up every drop of the vibrant pesto goodness.
Grilled Vegetables: Colorful, charred veggies offer a smoky flavor that balances the richness of the sun-dried tomato pesto, adding a delightful texture to your plate.
Pasta Salad: Light and refreshing, a chilled pasta salad tossed with fresh vegetables and a sprinkle of feta creates a wonderful contrast to the warm sauce.
Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula with a drizzle of lemony vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess of the pesto, bringing a refreshing element to your meal.
Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy and satisfying, these protein-packed bites offer a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the umami-rich pesto, making each bite an adventure.
Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine, like Chianti, enhances the Italian flavor experience, creating a complete dining pleasure to savor with every forkful.

Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best sun-dried tomatoes?
When selecting sun-dried tomatoes, look for those that are plump and free from dark spots, which may indicate spoilage. Oil-packed tomatoes provide added flavor and smoothness for your pesto sauce, while plain ones offer a lighter option for a Whole Food Plant-Based version. If you choose plain tomatoes, make sure to hydrate them properly before use!

How should I store my sun-dried tomato pesto sauce?
Store your sun-dried tomato pesto sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To maintain freshness, I often drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing. This method also helps to preserve the vibrant flavors while keeping the sauce from oxidizing.

Can I freeze sun-dried tomato pesto sauce?
Absolutely! To freeze your sun-dried tomato pesto sauce, spoon it into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. Enjoy your sauce within 3 months for the best flavor. When you are ready to use it, simply thaw the cubes overnight in the fridge or warm them gently in the microwave.

What can I do if my pesto is too thick?
If your sun-dried tomato pesto sauce turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of extra virgin olive oil or a bit of reserved water from soaking the sun-dried tomatoes. Blend again until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

Is this sun-dried tomato pesto sauce safe for my pets?
While the ingredients in sun-dried tomato pesto sauce are generally plant-based, it’s essential to note that garlic can be harmful to pets. Always ensure that your pesto sauce does not contain garlic before sharing any with furry friends. If in doubt, it’s best to stick to pet-safe treats!

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you prefer to avoid nuts, you can swap pine nuts for pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. For a lower-calorie option, substituting vegan parmesan with nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the calories. Adjust the amounts to taste, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful sun-dried tomato pesto sauce!