Pesto Rosso (Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto)

Pesto rosso (sun-dried tomato pesto) is a rich and sweet tomato pesto. It takes only five minutes to make. It is perfect for pasta, pizza, and more.

Pesto rosso in a wooden bowl.

What you’ll love about Pesto Rosso


  • Fast and easy recipe: Place all ingredients in a food processor and blend. That’s it!
  • Quick weeknight dinner: Cook pasta, pesto, and vegetables in under 20 minutes. My favorite pasta pesto recipe is Mediterranean Pesto Orzo!
  • Easily customizable: This recipe can be modified to vegan and dairy-free using a vegan parmesan.
Pasta tossed in pesto rosso on a plate.

What Type of Sun-Dried Tomatoes to Use?

Sun-dried tomatoes are sold in different forms. All forms are useable; you must determine which type is best for you.

  • Dehydrated sun-dried tomatoes have been dried in the sun or a dehydrator until completely dry. They have a long shelf life but require additional cooking time to rehydrate.
  • Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes are thoroughly dried and then packed in oil, giving them a softer texture and a richer, more intense flavor. They are also ready to use, so there is no need to rehydrate them. This is my favorite type of sun-dried tomato to use in this recipe.
  • Seasoned sun-dried tomatoes are flavored with herbs, garlic, or other seasonings before being dried. They can have a strong flavor, so I recommend using them sparingly.

If you are in a pinch, try using air fryer roasted tomatoes. The air frying makes for a quick cook while intensifying the overall flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients used in making the recipe.
  • Sun-dried Tomatoes – The star of the show and main ingredient
  • Basil – Balances out the richness of the tomato
  • Garlic – Adds a must-have zip to the flavor.
  • Nuts – Provides warmth and thickness
  • Parmesan Cheese/Vegan Parmesan – Adds a rich flavor.
  • Olive Oil – Blends and binds the ingredients.

Instructions

This recipe is so quick and straightforward that you must place the ingredients into a food processor and pulse until you reach the desired consistency. If the pesto is too dry, add additional olive oil.

It is that easy!

Recipe ingredients in a food processor.
Recipe ingredients in a food processor that have been blended.

Pairing Ideas

Tip: Freeze Extra Pesto Rosso

Freeze any extra pesto in ice cube trays for one hour, then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. When the time is ready, you will have individual servings that can be microwaved in 20 seconds!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store pesto rosso?

Refrigerator storage instructions – Yes, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. When chilled, the oils in the sauce will solidify. Bring it to room temperature before serving; it will be delicious and spreadable again.

Freezer storage instructions: Place in a small container or use an ice cube tray to freeze individual portions. Once frozen, place the cubes in a Ziploc bag or other airtight container. Before using it, let it defrost in the fridge for a day.

What is the difference between pesto and pesto rosso?

Pesto Rosso, or red pesto, is a tomato-based pesto. The more well-known pesto, Genovese pesto, is basil-based.

Hand holding a bowl of orzo.
Pesto rosso in a wooden bowl.

Pesto Rosso (Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto)

Pesto rosso (sun-dried tomato pesto) is a rich and sweet tomato pesto. It takes only five minutes to make. It is perfect for pasta, pizza, and more.
5 from 3 votes
Print Rate Save
Course: All Day
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 10 ounces
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, preferably packed in oil
  • ½ cup basil leaves
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese or vegan cheese alternative
  • ¼ cup pine nuts
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  • Place the sun-dried tomatoes, basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and garlic into a food processor. Slowly add the olive oil while pulsing until you reach the desired consistency. (Genrerly pulse 3 – 5 times.)

Nutrition

Calories: 110kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 79mg | Potassium: 351mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 212IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 161mg | Iron: 6mg
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4 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    I love this so much especially in the winter time! So great on toasted baguette.
    Trader Joe’s has a pretty great parmesan cheese alternative that is vegan, I just add at the very end so it doesn’t completely dissolve and fall apart in the food processor.

    1. Thank you! I am so happy you liked it! I use the Follow your Heart Brand I get at Kroger, Next time I am at Trader’s I will pick up their parmesan and give it a try.

5 from 3 votes (1 rating without comment)

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