Best 3 Uses For Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipes

Sun-dried tomatoes, a delectable culinary delight, are renowned for their intense flavor and versatility. Whether you seek a savory addition to pasta dishes or a tangy twist in salads, these sun-kissed gems offer a unique taste experience. Their robust umami flavor, born from the natural concentration of sugars during the drying process, adds a depth of flavor to various cuisines. From vibrant Mediterranean dishes to hearty Italian fare, sun-dried tomatoes elevate ordinary meals into culinary masterpieces. This article will guide you through a selection of delectable recipes that showcase the true potential of sun-dried tomatoes, transforming them from a mere pantry staple into a culinary star.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

PASTA WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATOES

Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes image

Provided by Ina Garten

Categories main-dish

Time 27m

Yield 6 to 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 16

Ingredients

1/2 pound fusilli (spirals) pasta
Kosher salt
Olive oil
1 pound ripe tomatoes, medium-diced
3/4 cup good black olives, such as kalamata, pitted and diced
1 pound fresh mozzarella, medium-diced
6 sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
5 sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
6 tablespoons good olive oil
1 garlic clove, diced
1 teaspoon capers, drained
2 teaspoons kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan
1 cup packed basil leaves, julienned

Steps:

Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water with a splash of oil to keep it from sticking together. Boil for 12 minutes, or according to the directions on the package. Drain well and allow to cool. Place the pasta in a bowl and add the tomatoes, olives, mozzarella, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
For the dressing, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, vinegar, olive oil, garlic, capers, salt, and pepper in a food processor until almost smooth.
Pour the dressing over the pasta, sprinkle with the Parmesan and basil, and toss well.

SUN-DRIED TOMATOES I

Sun-dried Tomatoes I image

Not a labor intensive process, but certainly a lengthy one. Once dried, store these tasty gems in the refrigerator.

Provided by Kellie

Categories Side Dish Sauces and Condiments Recipes

Yield 32

Number Of Ingredients 2

Ingredients

4 pounds tomatoes
salt to taste

Steps:

Preheat oven to 200 degrees F (95 degrees C).
Wash and halve tomatoes. Gently squeeze out the seeds. Place the tomatoes on a non-stick cookie sheet, and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Bake until tomatoes take on a leathery texture. This could literally take all day; smaller pieces will require less oven time.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 10.2 calories, Carbohydrate 2.2 g, Fat 0.1 g, Fiber 0.7 g, Protein 0.5 g, Sodium 2.8 mg, Sugar 1.5 g

SUPER SIMPLE SUN-DRIED TOMATO APPETIZERS

Super Simple Sun-Dried Tomato Appetizers image

I tried a sample of this at Costco and it was so good, I bought a huge jar of the tomatoes just so I could repeat this at home. I am almost embarrassed to share this, as it is so incredibly simple, but they were so good. I am guessing on the amounts.

Provided by HeatherFeather

Categories Cheese

Time 15m

Yield 40 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 5

Ingredients

40 butter flavored crackers (such as Ritz)
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese or 1 (8 ounce) package neufchatel cheese, at room temperature
1 (16 ounce) jar marinated sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil (the kind I tried had Italian seasonings in the oil already)
1 tablespoon italian seasoning (optional)
1/2 cup fresh basil leaf, shredded, garnish (optional)

Steps:

NOTE: If your sundried tomatoes do not already have Italian seasoned herbs in their oil, you will need to first stir in 1 Tbsp of Italian seasoning blend to your tomatoes, then cover and chill overnight.
Drain off the oil from your tomatoes.
Spread a generous spoonful of cream cheese onto each cracker and top with a strip of marinated sundried tomato.
Place onto a platter and garnish with strips of fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Serve immediately.
(You may need more or less or any of the ingredients- the Zaar computer only accepts specific amounts, so I have tried to give you a rough guess).

Nutrition Facts : Calories 64, Fat 4.6, SaturatedFat 1.6, Cholesterol 6.2, Sodium 80.8, Carbohydrate 5.2, Fiber 0.7, Sugar 0.1, Protein 1.3

Tips

When rehydrating sun-dried tomatoes, use hot water for quicker results, or cold water for a slower, more even rehydration.
To rehydrate sun-dried tomatoes quickly, microwave them in a bowl of hot water for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until softened.
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to salads for a burst of flavor and color.
Use sun-dried tomatoes in pasta dishes, soups, and stews for a rich, savory taste.
Purée sun-dried tomatoes with olive oil and herbs to make a flavorful sauce or marinade.
Add sun-dried tomatoes to sandwiches, wraps, and pizzas for a tangy, umami flavor.
Use sun-dried tomatoes as a topping for bruschetta, crostini, or crackers.
Store sun-dried tomatoes in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They will keep for up to 6 months.

Conclusion

Sun-dried tomatoes are a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Whether you are using them rehydrated or dry, sun-dried tomatoes can add a delicious touch to your favorite recipes.