Sun-Dried Tomato Spread
Sun-Dried Tomato Spread with a simple preparation process is a great way to add flavor and depth to any meal. The spread brings the richness of sun-dried tomatoes that pair wonderfully with olive oil, garlic, and spices. Making it at home will allow you to enjoy fresh and authentic flavor in every bite.
Sun-dried tomato spread is a tasty and healthy addition that pairs perfectly with any type of meal – whether it’s meat-based or dairy, on bread, in pita, or mixed with pastas and salads. The spread is easy to make and provides a deep, slightly sweet flavor that enriches any dish.
Ingredients:
- Sun-dried tomatoes (1 cup)
- Olive oil – ½ cup
- Salt – to taste
How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Spread:
Prepare the tomatoes: I make this spread with store-bought sun-dried tomatoes. You can soak them in hot water to soften them, but this isn’t mandatory, especially if they’re already soaked in oil. If you soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes, they will become softer and easier to blend in the food processor. If you know how to dry tomatoes in the sun, feel free to use them.
Food processor: Drain the tomatoes from any excess water or oil and place them in the food processor for an initial chopping to create a chopped tomato mixture.
Add olive oil: After chopping, begin adding the olive oil gradually while the processor is running, until the spread reaches a smooth and uniform texture or the desired consistency.
Season: Taste the spread and add salt and spices as needed.
Tips for Proper Preparation:
- You can enhance the spread with walnuts or pine nuts for added richness.
- If you like it spicy, add a little chopped chili pepper.
- Using a spatula helps preserve the spread when transferring it to storage containers.
Additions and Upgrades:
- Additional spices: You can upgrade the spread with oregano, paprika, etc., according to taste.
- Garlic: Some say garlic is essential for sun-dried tomato spread, but for me, it’s just an enhancement.
- Roasted garlic: For deeper flavors.
- Cheese: You can elevate the spread with Parmesan or feta cheese for extra salty flavor.
- Chopped olives: To add new color and taste.
- Fresh herbs: Such as parsley or basil, for freshness and flavor highlighting.
How to Store Sun-Dried Tomato Spread: Sun-dried tomato spread can be stored for an extended period, but it’s not recommended to keep it in the fridge for more than a week. Store it in an airtight container, and if the spread starts to dry out, you can add more olive oil to restore moisture.
Enjoy! Bon Appétit!