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Sicilian Tomato Pesto

Sicilian Tomato Pesto
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Sicilian Tomato Pesto is a vibrant Mediterranean sauce blending ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, nuts, olive oil, and cheese to create a fresh, flavorful, and versatile condiment. Perfect for enhancing pasta, bread, grilled vegetables, or even as a dip, this quick and easy recipe captures the essence of Sicily’s sun-ripened ingredients and brings a delightful burst of color and taste to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4–5 ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2–3 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts or almonds, toasted
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash the ripe tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly. Crack the garlic cloves and lightly toast the pine nuts or almonds in a dry skillet until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
  2. Blend the Base: Roughly chop the tomatoes and place them in a food processor along with the basil leaves, toasted nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse several times to combine while retaining some texture for an authentic, fresh pesto feel.
  3. Add the Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while blending to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency that brings all flavors together and adds a silky mouthfeel.
  4. Season and Finish: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese and add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Pulse a few more times until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Adjust seasoning as needed to achieve the perfect balance.
  5. Serve or Store: Use the Sicilian Tomato Pesto immediately or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for later use. Cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation.

Notes

  • Use sun-ripened tomatoes for deeper, richer flavor.
  • Toast nuts lightly to enhance their aroma without burning.
  • Avoid over-blending to keep a rustic, textured pesto.
  • Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best richness and flavor.
  • Adjust garlic quantity according to your taste preference.
  • To make nut-free, substitute pine nuts with roasted sunflower seeds.
  • For a vegan version, omit cheese and add nutritional yeast.
  • Add red chili flakes for a spicy kick if desired.
  • Store leftovers with olive oil on top to maintain freshness for up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
  • Freeze in portions using ice cube trays for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Sicilian tomato pesto, Mediterranean sauce, fresh pesto, tomato basil pesto, easy pesto recipe, Italian appetizer, gluten free pesto

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/sicilian-tomato-pesto/