This Sicilian Tomato Pesto is a burst of flavor! Made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and nuts, it brings a taste of Italy to your table.
Honestly, it’s so easy to make that I usually whip it up in minutes. Serve it over pasta or spread it on bread—your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sun-dried Tomatoes: Choose sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for extra flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use regular canned diced tomatoes, but you may need to drain them well.
Fresh Ripe Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes work best for a fresh flavor. If they’re out of season, consider using cherry tomatoes for a sweeter taste.
Almonds: I love using toasted almonds for their texture. Pine nuts are also traditional but can be pricey. Walnuts are a good substitute if you have them on hand.
Pecorino Romano: This cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor. Grana Padano or Parmesan can be used if you need a milder cheese.
Olive Oil: Always pick high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste, but any good olive oil will do if you’re on a budget.
How Do You Get the Perfect Consistency for Pesto?
Getting the right texture for your pesto is key. You want it to be thick but spreadable. Start by pulsing your dry ingredients first—this way, they can break down smaller before adding oil.
- When you blend the mixture, drizzle your olive oil slowly. This helps emulsify the ingredients, giving you a creamy texture.
- Don’t over-blend; a few chunks are okay and will add character to your pesto.
- If it’s too thick, add more olive oil a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Authentic Sicilian Tomato Pesto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably in oil, drained)
- 1 cup fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup toasted almonds (or pine nuts)
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, so you can enjoy your Sicilian Tomato Pesto with pasta or as a spread in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Nuts:
Start by preparing your almonds (or any nuts you’re using) by toasting them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until they are golden and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once done, let them cool.
2. Blend the Ingredients:
In a food processor or blender, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, fresh ripe tomatoes, toasted almonds, garlic cloves, and fresh basil leaves. Pulse the mixture a few times to break down the ingredients into a coarse mixture.
3. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Now, add the grated Pecorino Romano cheese to the mixture. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and if you like a little heat, add the optional red pepper flakes. Blend again until the ingredients are combined.
4. Incorporate the Olive Oil:
While pulsing the processor, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue blending until the pesto reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. If it’s too thick, feel free to add a bit more olive oil to your liking.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your pesto a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cheese if needed. This step is essential to make sure your pesto is just right!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now your authentic Sicilian Tomato Pesto is ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately over your favorite cooked pasta, spread it on toasted bread, or use it as a delicious condiment with grilled vegetables or meats. Buon Appetito!
FAQ for Authentic Sicilian Tomato Pesto
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
While traditional Sicilian Tomato Pesto uses sun-dried tomatoes for depth of flavor, you can substitute with more fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Just be aware that it may alter the consistency and taste. To keep it authentic, stick with sun-dried tomatoes for that rich, tangy flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To help preserve freshness, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing. Just give it a good stir when you’re ready to use it again!
Can I Freeze the Pesto?
Absolutely! You can freeze pesto in ice cube trays for easy portioning. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it!
What Dishes Pair Well with Sicilian Tomato Pesto?
This versatile pesto is fantastic over pasta, but it’s also delicious as a sandwich spread or a dip for veggies. You can even drizzle it over grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables for a burst of flavor.
