Sun-Dried Tomato & Almond Pesto

Name: Sun-Dried Tomato & Almond Pesto
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil; 1/2 cup almonds, toasted; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/3 cup olive oil

Highlighted under: Classic Recipes

I love making this Sun-Dried Tomato & Almond Pesto because it combines rich flavors with a beautiful color that brightens any dish. The saltiness of the sun-dried tomatoes pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the almonds, creating a dip or pasta dressing that's simply irresistible. I often use it to elevate my weeknight dinners or to impress guests at gatherings, and it always gets rave reviews. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, this pesto quickly becomes a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Jackies

Last updated on 2026-03-04T17:04:32.593Z

When I first created this Sun-Dried Tomato & Almond Pesto, I was surprised at how easily the flavors blended together. The secret is to make sure your almonds are lightly toasted, as this enhances their nutty flavor and adds depth to the pesto.

I also learned that letting the pesto sit for just a few minutes after blending allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This time allows any raw edge of the garlic to mellow out, resulting in a balanced, cohesive sauce that’s perfect as a spread or a pasta topping.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A unique twist on traditional pesto that surprises your taste buds
Versatile enough to use as a dip, spread, or pasta sauce
Packed with antioxidants from sun-dried tomatoes and healthy fats from almonds

Ingredient Insights

The choice of sun-dried tomatoes is essential for achieving that signature depth of flavor in this pesto. I recommend using those packed in oil, as they add not only moisture but also additional richness. If you can't find them, you can soak dry sun-dried tomatoes in warm water for about 30 minutes to achieve a similar texture, though the flavor might be slightly less intense.

Almonds provide a delightful creaminess to the pesto while also introducing healthy fats and proteins, making the dip more satisfying. Toasting them enhances their nutty taste—just pop them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. This step takes mere minutes but elevates the flavor profile significantly.

Perfecting the Texture

Blending the ingredients properly is key to a good pesto. Start by pulsing them gently and avoid over-blending to maintain some texture. The goal is to create a rustic mix where the pesto has some body, so you still get crunchy bits of almond throughout. If it becomes too smooth, it can lose its character and that appealing chunky mouthfeel.

When adding olive oil, do it gradually while the food processor is running. This emulsifies the oil with the other ingredients, resulting in a glossy texture. If you prefer a thicker pesto, you can reduce the oil amount slightly, but keep an eye out to ensure it doesn’t become too stiff—adjust by adding a bit of water if needed.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you begin!

Ingredients

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil
1/2 cup almonds, toasted
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/3 cup olive oil

Ensure everything is ready to go for a smooth preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your pesto!

Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, toasted almonds, basil leaves, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse gently until the mixture is finely chopped but not completely smooth.

Add Olive Oil

While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. You can adjust the amount of oil based on your preference for thickness.

Season

Taste your pesto and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Adjust any other ingredient as necessary.

Your delicious Sun-Dried Tomato & Almond Pesto is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating a squeeze of lemon juice or zest to brighten up the dish. This pesto also keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, so it's perfect for meal prep!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Sun-Dried Tomato & Almond Pesto stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Transfer it to an airtight container and cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation. It should last up to a week, but I often find it disappears much quicker when served with crackers or as a spread for sandwiches.

For an impressive dish at your next gathering, consider using this pesto with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. Its vibrant color and bold flavor make it an excellent marinade too—just let your protein soak in it for at least 30 minutes before cooking for enhanced flavor.

Variations and Adaptations

Feel free to experiment with different nuts in this recipe. Walnuts or pine nuts are great alternatives that can provide a different depth of flavor. If you're looking for a nut-free version, try using nutritional yeast to maintain that umami flavor without the nuts—just add 1/4 cup blended with the other ingredients.

To give this pesto an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice. The acidity from the lemon balances the richness of the pesto beautifully while enhancing the overall flavor. Start with a teaspoon of lemon juice and adjust to taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I store this pesto, and how long does it last?

Yes, you can store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the pesto?

Absolutely! You can freeze the pesto in ice cube trays for easy portioning. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What can I use this pesto with?

This pesto is versatile; use it with pasta, as a sandwich spread, or as a dip with crackers or vegetables.

→ Can I substitute the almonds for another nut?

Yes, walnuts or pine nuts would be great alternatives if you want to try a different flavor!