Sun-dried Tomato Spread

Introduction

History

Sun-dried tomatoes have been used in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. The process of drying tomatoes under the sun intensifies their flavor, making them a popular ingredient in many dishes. The idea of creating a spread using sun-dried tomatoes likely originated from the desire to enjoy their concentrated flavor in a creamy and spreadable form.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to rehydrate the sun-dried tomatoes before using them in the spread. This will help soften them and bring out their flavor.

- Adjust the amount of herbs and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

- For a smoother texture, blend the ingredients in a high-speed blender or food processor until completely smooth.

- Store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the sun-dried tomato spread with crackers, breadsticks, or raw vegetables for a delicious appetizer or snack.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor or blender to blend the ingredients until smooth.

- Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or sour cream as needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream for a lighter version of the spread.

- Use dried herbs instead of fresh if fresh herbs are not available.

Make Ahead Tips

The sun-dried tomato spread can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the spread with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a few extra slices of sun-dried tomatoes for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the sun-dried tomato spread with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

- Allow the spread to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

180

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 4g

- Dietary Fiber: 1g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 3g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 5% DV

- Calcium: 6% DV

- Iron: 4% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream)

Summary

This sun-dried tomato spread is a rich and creamy dip that is high in fat and calories. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Sun-dried tomato spread is a flavorful and creamy dip that is perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a snack. With the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and creamy dairy ingredients, this spread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Lucia at her charming little farmhouse in the countryside. Lucia was known for her delicious homemade dishes, and I always looked forward to our culinary adventures together.

On this particular day, Lucia greeted me with a warm hug and a mischievous twinkle in her eye. She led me to her sunny kitchen, where the aroma of fresh herbs and spices filled the air. As we chatted and caught up on each other's lives, Lucia began to prepare a simple yet tantalizing dish - Sun-dried Tomato Spread.

I watched with fascination as Lucia effortlessly chopped the sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, blending them together with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The vibrant colors and fragrant aroma filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When Lucia finally placed a generous dollop of the spread on a slice of crusty bread and handed it to me, my taste buds erupted with delight. The tangy sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes, the earthy freshness of the basil, and the pungent kick of the garlic all combined to create a symphony of flavors that danced on my tongue.

I couldn't help but exclaim, "Lucia, this is absolutely divine! I must have the recipe."

Lucia chuckled and said, "Oh, my dear friend, this recipe is too simple to keep to myself. I learned it from my grandmother, who learned it from her grandmother. It's a family tradition that I am happy to share with you."

And so, Lucia graciously shared the recipe with me, and I eagerly scribbled it down in my trusty recipe book. Little did I know that this simple yet delicious Sun-dried Tomato Spread would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

I began to make the spread for every gathering, potluck, and picnic, and it quickly became a crowd favorite. Friends and family would always ask for the recipe, and I would proudly pass it along, just as Lucia had done for me.

As the years went by, I continued to tweak and refine the recipe, adding a touch of balsamic vinegar here, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes there. Each time I made the spread, I felt a sense of connection to Lucia and her grandmother, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of good food shared with loved ones.

Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the familiar aromas and memories of a lifetime of cooking, I can't help but smile as I prepare another batch of Sun-dried Tomato Spread. The recipe may have originated in a humble farmhouse kitchen, but its legacy lives on in every bite.

And so, I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, with the hope that you will continue the tradition of sharing good food and cherished memories with those you hold dear. Remember, the key ingredient in any dish is love, and with that, anything you cook will always be a recipe for happiness.

Categories

| Basil Recipes | Chives Recipes | Cream Cheese Recipes | Healthy Recipes For Diabetic Friends | Mayonnaise Recipes | Non-fat Milk Recipes | Sour Cream Recipes | Spread Recipes | Sun-dried Tomato Recipes | Thyme Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients