Savory Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Spread
Indulge in this delightful Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Spread, a vibrant recipe inspired by culinary enthusiast Shira Kestenbaum. This rich, flavorful spread brings together the tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil, making it a perfect addition to your appetizer spread, sandwiches, or as a delicious dip. The recipe celebrates the essence of Mediterranean flavors while being easy to make at home. With its brilliant deep red color and savory profile, this spread is sure to impress your guests and elevate any meal. Enjoy it fresh or store it for a later treat. It's an incredibly versatile topping that can be modified according to your taste preferences.
32
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sun-dried tomatoes
8 ounces (dried, soak in boiling water)
Garlic cloves
3-4 (peeled, whole)
Fresh basil leaves
8 leaves (chopped)
Salt
to taste (none)
Black pepper
to taste (freshly cracked)
Vinegar (or lemon juice)
1 tablespoon (none)
Water
1/2-1 cup (warm, as needed)
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (extra for topping)
Instructions
1
Begin by covering the sun-dried tomatoes with boiling water and let them soak for about 30 minutes until softened.
2
Once softened, drain the tomatoes, then gently squeeze to remove excess water. Slice the tomatoes on a cutting board to prepare them for blending.
3
In a food processor, combine the sliced sun-dried tomatoes, garlic cloves, and chopped basil. Process the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it's finely chopped.
4
Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar (or lemon juice) to the mixture and blend again.
5
While the processor is running, gradually add warm water, starting with one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture reaches a smooth, paste-like consistency in a rich red color.
6
Once the mixture is well blended, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and process for a few more seconds.
7
Taste the spread and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference; keep in mind that some commercial sun-dried tomatoes can be quite salty.
8
If the spread is too thick, continue adding warm water, a tablespoon at a time, to achieve your desired spreadable consistency.
9
Using a spatula, transfer the spread into a clean glass jar, pressing it down with the back of the spoon to eliminate air pockets.
10
Pour additional olive oil over the top of the spread to create a protective seal that keeps air out and enhances flavor.
11
Ensure the top layer of the spread is fully covered with olive oil before sealing the jar.
12
Store the spread in the refrigerator, where it will keep fresh for several weeks.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Spread?
It is a vibrant, rich, and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired spread made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil.
Who is the inspiration behind this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by culinary enthusiast Shira Kestenbaum.
What is the main flavor profile of this spread?
It features a tangy taste from sun-dried tomatoes combined with aromatic garlic and fresh basil.
What are the primary ingredients for this spread?
The main ingredients include 8 ounces of sun-dried tomatoes, 3-4 garlic cloves, 8 fresh basil leaves, vinegar or lemon juice, olive oil, and warm water.
How do I prepare the sun-dried tomatoes?
Cover them with boiling water and let them soak for about 30 minutes until they are softened.
Do I need to remove water from the soaked tomatoes?
Yes, after soaking, drain the tomatoes and gently squeeze them to remove any excess water before slicing.
How do I blend the ingredients?
Use a food processor to combine the sliced tomatoes, garlic, and basil, processing for 1-2 minutes until finely chopped.
Can I substitute the vinegar in this recipe?
Yes, you can use 1 tablespoon of lemon juice as an alternative to the vinegar.
Why is warm water added to the mixture?
Warm water is added gradually while the processor is running to help the mixture reach a smooth, paste-like consistency.
How much olive oil is blended into the spread?
One tablespoon of olive oil is processed into the mixture for a few seconds once it is well blended.
How should I season the spread?
Taste the spread and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference.
Why should I be careful with adding salt?
Some commercial sun-dried tomatoes can be quite salty, so it is important to taste the spread before adding additional salt.
What should I do if the spread is too thick?
You can continue adding warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired spreadable consistency.
How do I pack the spread into a storage container?
Use a spatula to transfer it to a clean glass jar and press it down with a spoon to eliminate air pockets.
What is the purpose of adding olive oil to the top of the jar?
Pouring olive oil over the top creates a protective seal that keeps air out, keeping it fresh and enhancing flavor.
How should the spread be stored?
Ensure the top is fully covered with olive oil, seal the jar, and store it in the refrigerator.
How long will the spread stay fresh?
When stored in the refrigerator, this sun-dried tomato spread will keep fresh for several weeks.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Savory Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Spread is a vegan-friendly recipe.
What are some ways to serve this spread?
It is perfect as an appetizer, a sandwich spread, or as a delicious dip for guests.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 32 servings.
What kind of tomatoes are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of dried sun-dried tomatoes.
How many garlic cloves are required?
You will need 3 to 4 peeled garlic cloves.
How much basil is needed for the spread?
The recipe requires 8 fresh basil leaves, which should be chopped before processing.
What color is the final spread?
The finished spread has a brilliant, deep red color.
Can I modify this recipe?
Yes, it is a versatile topping that can be easily modified according to your specific taste preferences.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is described as an easy-to-make homemade recipe that celebrates Mediterranean flavors.
What equipment is needed to make the spread?
You will need a food processor, a cutting board, a glass jar, and a spatula.
Is this recipe categorized as a preserve?
Yes, it is tagged as a preserve and is designed to be stored for later use.
How much warm water is used in total?
Typically between 1/2 to 1 cup of warm water is used, added as needed to reach the right consistency.
What kind of pepper is recommended?
Freshly cracked black pepper is recommended for the best flavor profile.