Are you looking for a new way to jazz up your pasta dish? Look no further than 1/4 cup (64 g) Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes! This flavorful sauce packs a punch with every bite, and at only 200 calories per serving, it won't derail your healthy eating goals.
Not only is Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes delicious, it also offers some nutritional benefits. Made with fresh herbs, olive oil, nuts, and sun dried tomatoes, this sauce is high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It also contains Vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium.
In this article, we'll dive deeper into the world of Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes, exploring its ideal serving size, flavor profile, uses in cooking, and more.
Ingredients
To make 1/4 cup (64 g) Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes, you'll need the following ingredients: - 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped sun dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste Simply blend all of the ingredients together in a food processor or blender until smooth. If the pesto is too thick, add more olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency.
A 1/4 cup (64 g) serving of Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes contains approximately 200 calories, 20 grams of fat, 3 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, and 4 grams of protein. As mentioned earlier, this sauce is also high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, and contains Vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium.
Ideal Serving Size
While Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes is delicious, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat content. A 1/4 cup (64 g) serving is the perfect amount to add flavor to your dish without going overboard. If you're watching your calorie intake, try using just a tablespoon or two of the sauce as a condiment instead of slathering it on your pasta.
Flavor Profile
Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes has a bold, spicy flavor from the fresh basil, garlic, and sun dried tomatoes. The pine nuts and Parmesan cheese add a nuttiness and saltiness to the sauce that balances out the acidity of the tomatoes. This sauce is perfect for adding flavor to pasta dishes, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.
Uses in Cooking
Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas: - Toss with pasta and roasted vegetables
- Spread on a sandwich or wrap
- Use as a dipping sauce for vegetables or bread
- Top grilled chicken or fish with a spoonful of pesto
- Stir into risotto or other grains
Alternative Pesto Variations
If you're not a fan of sun dried tomatoes, don't worry! Pesto is incredibly versatile and can be made with a variety of ingredients. Here are some alternative pesto recipes to try: - Kale and Walnut Pesto
- Roasted Red Pepper Pesto
- Spinach and Almond Pesto
- Cilantro and Lime Pesto
Homemade vs Store-Bought
While store-bought pesto is convenient, making your own at home can be just as easy and allows you to control the ingredients and nutritional content. Plus, homemade pesto just tastes better! Give it a try and see for yourself.
Ways to Store Pesto
Pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to several months. To store in the refrigerator, transfer the pesto to an airtight container and press a piece of plastic wrap onto the surface of the pesto to prevent browning. To freeze, transfer the pesto to an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the pesto cubes to a zip-top bag and label with the date. Thaw frozen pesto in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Serving Suggestions
If you're wondering how to use Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes, here are a few serving suggestions to get you started: - Toss with hot pasta and roasted vegetables
- Spread on a grilled cheese sandwich
- Dip sliced bread or veggies into the sauce for a tasty snack
- Use as a topping for grilled meat or fish
- Stir into scrambled eggs
Final Thoughts
Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes is a delicious and versatile sauce that can elevate any dish. Whether you choose to make your own or purchase it from the store, be mindful of your portion sizes due to the high fat content. Experiment with different uses for pesto and try out some of the alternative recipes listed above. Who knows, you may just find your new favorite sauce!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes
1. What is Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes?
Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes is a mix of fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil and sun dried tomatoes that has been ground into a thick paste. It is a popular Italian sauce served with pasta, pizza, bread, and fish.
2. What are the nutritional values of Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes?
One quarter cup (64g) of Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes contains around 200 calories, 18 grams of fat, 6 grams of saturated fat, 4 grams of protein and 6 grams of carbohydrates.
3. How is Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes made?
To make Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes, you will need fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, garlic, pine nuts, sun dried tomatoes and olive oil. You will grind all of these ingredients in a food processor, blender or mortar and pestle until you get a smooth, thick paste.
4. How should I use Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes?
Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes is a versatile sauce that can be used in many different ways. You can add it to pasta, use it as a spread on bread or sandwiches, or even as a dip for vegetables. It can also be used as a marinade for meats or to add flavor to soups and casseroles.
5. How can I store Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes?
Pesto with Sun Dried Tomatoes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to one week.