How To Cook With Sun Dried Tomatoes

How To Cook With Sun Dried Tomatoes

When it comes to adding a burst of flavor to your dishes, sun dried tomatoes are a fantastic ingredient to have in your pantry. Their intense, concentrated taste can elevate any recipe, from pasta dishes to salads and more. In this article, we will explore different ways to cook with sun dried tomatoes and show you just how versatile they can be.

Incorporate Sun Dried Tomatoes in Pasta

One of the most popular ways to use sun dried tomatoes is in pasta dishes. Their rich, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with both creamy and light sauces. Here’s how you can incorporate them:

1. Add chopped sun dried tomatoes to your favorite pasta sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Toss cooked pasta with sun dried tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs for a simple yet delicious pasta dish.
3. Create a sun dried tomato pesto by blending sun dried tomatoes, basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts. Toss it with cooked pasta for a unique twist on a classic dish.

Enhance Salads with Sun Dried Tomatoes

Sun dried tomatoes can add a vibrant and tangy element to salads. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Chop sun dried tomatoes and toss them with mixed greens, goat cheese, and toasted pine nuts. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette for a flavorful salad.
• Add slices of sun dried tomatoes to a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Create a Mediterranean-inspired salad by combining sun dried tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, olives, and a lemon-herb dressing.

Include Sun Dried Tomatoes in Savory Dishes

Sun dried tomatoes can also be used to add depth and complexity to various savory dishes. Here are some creative ways to incorporate them:

• Make a sun dried tomato tapenade by blending sun dried tomatoes, olives, garlic, and olive oil. Spread it on crostini or use it as a topping for grilled meats.
• Stuff chicken breasts or fish fillets with a mixture of sun dried tomatoes, spinach, and goat cheese for an impressive main course.
• Add chopped sun dried tomatoes to your homemade pizza toppings for an extra burst of flavor.

Store and Rehydrate Sun Dried Tomatoes

If you have sun dried tomatoes that are too dry or tough, you can easily rehydrate them to soften their texture. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Place the sun dried tomatoes in a bowl and cover them with hot water or broth.
2. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes or until they become plump and tender.
3. Drain well and pat dry before using them in your recipe.

Remember to store your sun dried tomatoes in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Now that you have an array of ideas on how to cook with sun dried tomatoes, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re making pasta, salads, or savory dishes, these little gems are sure to take your recipes to the next level. So go ahead and add a burst of flavor with sun dried tomatoes!