Name: Creamy Tomato Pesto Sauce That Will Transform Your Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Sun Dried Tomatoes (Choose unsaturated for WFPB); 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (Essential for authentic flavor); 1/4 cup Pine Nuts (Can substitute with walnuts or cashews); 2 cloves Garlic (Adjust according to taste); 1/4 cup Vegan Parmesan (Nutritional yeast is a good alternative); 1 tbsp Fresh Oregano Leaves (Optional); 1/2 tsp Sea Salt (Adjust to taste); 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Add more for desired consistency)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in my kitchen, the aromatic blend of sun dried tomatoes and fresh basil wafted through the air, transporting me straight to a vibrant Italian street market. This Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce is not just quick to whip up—taking a mere 10 minutes—but it also boasts a depth of flavor that transforms any dish in an instant. Whether you’re dressing up a simple pasta dinner or adding a gourmet touch to your sandwiches, this Tomato Pesto Sauce is a delightful companion to many meals. With its creamy texture satisfying your cravings and options for both traditional vegan and Whole Food Plant-Based versions, it truly caters to all! Are you ready to elevate your culinary creations with this irresistible homemade sauce?

Why Is This Pesto Sauce a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This Tomato Pesto Sauce can be whipped up in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun dried tomatoes and fresh basil delivers a symphony of rich, savory flavors that will elevate any meal.

Versatile Delight: Whether tossed with pasta, spread on sandwiches, or served as a dip, this sauce shines in countless dishes, making it a staple in your kitchen.

Diet-Friendly: With options for both traditional vegan and Whole Food Plant-Based versions, this recipe caters to a variety of dietary preferences.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Loved by both food enthusiasts and those craving comfort, this sauce will impress guests at any gathering. Try pairing it with Tomato Basil Bruschetta for a delightful appetizer!

Tomato Pesto Sauce Ingredients

For the Pesto
• Sun Dried Tomatoes – Provide deep, concentrated flavor; for WFPB, choose unsaturated sun dried tomatoes (not packed in oil).
• Fresh Basil Leaves – Add aromatic freshness and brightness; essential for an authentic pesto flavor.
• Pine Nuts – Contribute creaminess and a nutty taste; can be substituted with walnuts or cashews for versatility.
• Garlic – Delivers depth and sharpness to the sauce; opt for fresh for best results and adjust according to taste.
• Vegan Parmesan – Offers a cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free; nutritional yeast can serve as a great alternative.
• Fresh Oregano Leaves – Optional but enhances herbal notes; can be omitted if not available.
• Sea Salt – Balances flavors to perfection; adjust to your personal taste.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps emulsify the sauce; use more as needed for your desired consistency.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tomato Pesto Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Sun Dried Tomatoes
Start by draining your sun dried tomatoes if they’re packed in oil. For a Whole Food Plant-Based version, soak store-bought dry tomatoes in hot water for about 20 minutes until softened. Once ready, place them into your food processor—this will be the flavorful base of your Tomato Pesto Sauce.

Step 2: Add the Base Ingredients
To the food processor, add in the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, and minced garlic. If using fresh oregano, toss that in as well. Measure out vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast, and add it to the mixture. These ingredients bring a fresh and nutty flavor to your sauce.

Step 3: Incorporate the Olive Oil
Pour in extra virgin olive oil to enhance the richness of your Tomato Pesto Sauce. Start with a couple of tablespoons, and blend the mixture. You’ll want to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. If it appears too thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water to help emulsify.

Step 4: Process Until Smooth
Pulse the food processor until all ingredients are well combined and the sauce is silky. Scrape down the sides as needed, making sure no bits of garlic or pine nuts remain. The goal here is to have a luscious Tomato Pesto Sauce that is homogeneous and flavorful, perfectly ready to elevate your dishes.

Step 5: Season to Perfection
Taste your pesto sauce and add sea salt according to your preference. Blend again for a few seconds to incorporate the seasoning thoroughly. Adjust the saltiness to match your taste buds, ensuring that each bite bursts with the distinct flavors of the sun dried tomato and basil.

Step 6: Store and Serve
Transfer your Tomato Pesto Sauce into a clean jar, sealing it tightly. Allow it to reach room temperature for best texture, and store any leftovers in the refrigerator. This rich and vibrant sauce not only enhances pasta dishes but also makes an excellent spread or dip, ready to transform your meals!

Make Ahead Options

This Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce is a fantastic candidate for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its vibrant flavor, ensure that the ingredients are well blended and season it just before serving to brighten the taste. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bring it to room temperature for the best texture or quickly blend in a splash of olive oil if needed. Trust me, this make-ahead Tomato Pesto Sauce will still be just as delicious and convenient when you need it most!

Tomato Pesto Sauce Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore and personalize this Tomato Pesto Sauce to suit your cravings and dietary preferences.

Nuts Alternative: Substitute pine nuts with walnuts or cashews for a unique twist. You’ll find that each nut brings a different texture and flavor profile, making the sauce even more delightful!
Garlic Level: Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference for sharpness. A little can go a long way, so start small and add more until it’s just right for you.
Oil-Free Version: For a Whole Food Plant-Based approach, skip the olive oil entirely and use a splash of vegetable broth instead. This keeps it creamy while adhering to oil-free guidelines, but it may alter the richness slightly.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. It’s a simple way to ramp up the flavor and give the sauce a pleasant heat without overwhelming the taste buds!
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley instead of basil for a fresh identity. The flavor change can be remarkably enticing and bring a new life to your meals.
Cheese Alternatives: Swap vegan parmesan for nutritional yeast to enhance the cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free. Nutritional yeast not only adds flavor but also contributes vitamins that are great for your body.
Savory Enhancement: Mix in a handful of sunflower seeds for added texture and nuttiness, creating a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess beautifully.

If you’re looking for more recipe ideas, why not try pairing this sauce with some delicious Tomato Basil Bruschetta as a perfect appetizer? And if you’re feeling adventurous, check out my flavorful Fiery Chicken Sauce for a spicy twist in your culinary journey!

Expert Tips for Tomato Pesto Sauce

• Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality sun dried tomatoes and fresh basil for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients make your Tomato Pesto Sauce truly shine.

• Adjust Consistency: If the pesto is too thick, add a splash of water or more olive oil to ensure a creamy texture that blends easily with pasta.

• Taste As You Go: Sample your Tomato Pesto Sauce frequently. Adjust seasoning and garlic levels to suit your personal preference for a customized flavor.

• Storing Secrets: Store your sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. It lasts up to a week, but can also be frozen for longer shelf life.

• Mix It Up: Explore variations by substituting pine nuts with walnuts or cashews, and don’t shy away from experimenting with different herbs!

What to Serve with Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce

Indulging in a rich and vibrant sauce is only the beginning of your culinary adventure! Transform your meal into a true feast.

Creamy Risotto: The luxurious texture of risotto pairs beautifully with the zesty notes of the pesto, creating a harmony of flavors.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy and warm, garlic bread adds an irresistible crunch that complements the smooth creaminess of your pesto sauce.
Zucchini Noodles: For a light and fresh option, zoodles provide a delightful crunch and absorb the sauce’s flavors beautifully.
Caprese Salad: The juicy tomatoes and creamy vegan mozzarella enhance the fresh herbal notes of the pesto, creating an Italian summer experience.
Grilled Vegetables: The smoky and charred flavors of mixed veggies bring out the sun-dried tomato’s richness while adding a healthy touch.
Pasta Salad: Tossed with whole wheat pasta, seasonal veggies, and pesto, this dish offers a refreshing twist that’s great for picnics.
Crispy Flatbread: Serve a warm flatbread drizzled with a bit of pesto as a unique appetizer or snack, acting as a perfect dipper.
Sparkling Water: A glass of sparkling water with lemon will cleanse your palate, making each bite of pesto-rich dish even better.
Vegan Chocolate Mousse: Finish with a smooth, rich dessert to balance the savory flavors of the meal, creating a delightful sweet ending.

How to Store and Freeze Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce

Fridge: Keep your Tomato Pesto Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Allow the sauce to reach room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezer: Freeze leftover pesto in small portions using ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer to a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. Perfect for quick meal additions!

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, or gently warm in a saucepan on low heat, stirring in a bit of olive oil or water to restore creaminess if needed.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the pesto sauce out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and quality.

Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ripe sun dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! When choosing sun dried tomatoes, look for ones that are vibrant in color, without any dark spots or mold. They should feel slightly chewy and not overly hard. If buying packed in oil, make sure the oil looks clear and fresh. For the WFPB version, opt for unsaturated, dry sun dried tomatoes without any added oil.

What is the best way to store leftover pesto sauce?
Very! To keep your Tomato Pesto Sauce fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It lasts about 1 week. For optimal flavor, let it reach room temperature before serving. To cover it further, you can drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing the container to help minimize oxidation.

Can I freeze Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce?
Absolutely! Freezing your Tomato Pesto Sauce is a great way to keep it for later. Pour the sauce into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the pesto cubes to a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or gently warm on low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to regain creaminess.

What are some troubleshooting tips if my pesto is too thick?
Great question! If you find your Tomato Pesto Sauce is too thick, simply add a little bit of water or more extra virgin olive oil to the mixture. Start with a tablespoon at a time and blend until you reach the desired consistency. Taste the sauce as you go to ensure you’re happy with the flavor balance.

Can pets consume this pesto sauce?
The more the merrier! However, many ingredients like garlic and salt can be harmful to pets. It’s best to keep this Tomato Pesto Sauce to human consumption only and make sure to set a little aside for them when cooking without those potentially harmful ingredients.

Are there any common food allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Very! This Tomato Pesto Sauce includes nuts, particularly pine nuts, which can be allergenic for some individuals. Always ensure that your guests or family members are aware of ingredients, and consider adjusting the recipe if necessary—for instance, using sunflower seeds in place of pine nuts for those with nut allergies.