Sun dried tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes, from pasta to salads to sandwiches. They have a rich, intense flavor that adds depth and complexity to any dish. In this article, we will explore some of the best recipes that use sun dried tomatoes as a key ingredient.
Ingredient
Before we get started with the recipes, let's take a look at the key ingredients you will need: - Sun dried tomatoes (either packed in oil or dried) - Olive oil - Garlic - Salt - Pepper - Herbs (such as basil, oregano, or thyme) - Pasta (if making a pasta dish) - Protein (such as chicken or shrimp, if making a main dish) - Vegetables (such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, if making a pasta dish) - Cheese (such as Parmesan or feta, for topping)
Recipe 1: Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
This recipe is a classic and easy way to incorporate sun dried tomatoes into your meals. Ingredients: - 1 pound of pasta (any shape you prefer) - 1 cup of sun dried tomatoes (packed in oil) - 3 cloves of garlic, minced - 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil Instructions: 1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. 2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. 3. Add the sun dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes. 4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. If the pasta seems dry, add the reserved pasta water to help loosen it up. 5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.
Recipe 2: Sun Dried Tomato and Shrimp Skewers
This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Ingredients: - 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 cup of sun dried tomatoes (packed in oil) - 2 cloves of garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley - Salt and pepper to taste - Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes Instructions: 1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. 2. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, sun dried tomatoes, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat. 3. Thread the shrimp and sun dried tomatoes onto the soaked skewers, alternating between the two. 4. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. 5. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley, if desired.
Recipe 3: Sun Dried Tomato and Spinach Salad
This recipe is a healthy and refreshing way to enjoy sun dried tomatoes. Ingredients: - 4 cups of baby spinach - 1/2 cup of sun dried tomatoes (packed in oil) - 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese - 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar - 2 tablespoons of olive oil Instructions: 1. In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, sun dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and walnuts. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and olive oil. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. 4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 5. Serve cold.
Nutrition
Now that we've explored some delicious recipes with sun dried tomatoes, let's take a look at the nutritional benefits. Sun dried tomatoes are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and potassium. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to any meal. However, because they are often packed in oil, they can be high in sodium, so be sure to check the labels and choose a low-sodium option if possible. In conclusion, sun dried tomatoes are a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. Whether you're making pasta, skewers, or salads, they are sure to add a delicious and nutritious twist to your meals. So next time you're at the grocery store, be sure to pick up a jar or bag of sun dried tomatoes and get cooking!
