As the summer days come to a close, our taste buds crave the warm, comforting flavors of sun-dried tomatoes. These sweet and savory morsels add depth and complexity to any dish, from pasta and pizza to salads and snacks. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or a lively gathering with friends, we’ve got you covered with these 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the star power of sun-dried tomatoes.
From classic combinations like pasta and chicken to innovative twists like hummus and quiche, our collection is designed to inspire your culinary creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious cook, get ready to elevate your mealtime game with these irresistible sun-dried tomato recipes. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through the best of the best, featuring a diverse range of dishes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Garlic and Basil
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of sun dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil in a creamy pasta sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chopped sun dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta and sun dried tomato sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful chicken dish, bursting with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the creaminess of a homemade sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in Dijon mustard and dried basil.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and coat with the creamy sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the tomato-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Spinach Quiche
A savory and flavorful quiche perfect for brunch or a light dinner, featuring the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the earthiness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and a pinch of salt.
5. Arrange sun-dried tomatoes on the pie crust, followed by the spinach mixture, and finally the cheddar cheese.
6. Pour the cream mixture over the filling, making sure everything is covered.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato Hummus with Pita Chips
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful Sun Dried Tomato Hummus, perfectly paired with crispy Pita Chips. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pita Chips (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine chickpeas, sun dried tomatoes, garlic, lemon juice, and tahini.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve with Pita Chips for a delicious snack or appetizer.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Olive Tapenade
This savory tapenade combines the rich flavors of sun dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives with a hint of garlic, perfect for spreading on crackers or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine olives, sun dried tomatoes, and garlic.
2. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue processing until the mixture reaches your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and refreshing flatbread recipe, perfect for a light lunch or appetizer. The combination of sun dried tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, and fresh herbs creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread (or pizza dough)
– 1/4 cup of sun dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1/2 cup of crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Brush the olive oil evenly over the flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top the flatbread with chopped sun dried tomatoes, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Pesto Risotto
Elevate your risotto game with this flavorful and vibrant dish, combining the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the bright, herby taste of pesto. This recipe yields a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a standalone main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until coated in oil.
4. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and pesto.
6. Remove from heat, then mix in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful fusion of creamy mozzarella, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and earthy mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a quick and impressive start to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stemmed
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the mushrooms are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Arugula Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tangy flavors of sun dried tomatoes with the peppery bite of arugula, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine arugula and sun-dried tomatoes.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, top with crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Elevate your salmon dish with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the tomato-parmesan mixture evenly among the salmon fillets, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Artichoke Dip
Elevate your snack game with this rich and flavorful dip that combines the sweetness of sun dried tomatoes with the earthy taste of artichokes. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes, packed in oil, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sun dried tomatoes, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped artichoke hearts.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and slightly golden brown on top.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
Sun Dried Tomato and Sausage Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Summary:
Sweet bell peppers stuffed with savory sausage, sun dried tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture, followed by chopped sun dried tomatoes and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the classic Italian staple with the warmth of sun dried tomatoes and the creaminess of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, sun dried tomatoes, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed shells and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Kale Pesto Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful combination of sun dried tomatoes and kale pesto on a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh kale leaves
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
2. In a food processor, combine kale, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Process until smooth.
3. Spread the pesto over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with sun dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and White Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, creamy white beans, and aromatic vegetables to create a comforting and nutritious meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, sun-dried tomatoes, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory pork tenderloin recipe, perfectly glazed with sun-dried tomatoes and balsamic vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Place the tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze mixture evenly over the pork, making sure to coat all surfaces.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato and Herb Focaccia Bread
This classic Italian bread gets a flavorful twist with the addition of sun dried tomatoes and fragrant herbs. Perfect for serving as a side dish or using to make delicious sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, salt, flour, sun dried tomatoes, parsley, basil, and garlic powder. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle or round loaf.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for inspiration in the kitchen? Look no further! This collection of 18 sun-dried tomato recipes offers something for every occasion. From classic pasta dishes to savory stuffed chicken and seafood options, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy creamy sun-dried tomato chicken with garlic and basil, or try your hand at making a delicious quiche with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, these recipes are sure to satisfy. So go ahead, get cooking, and let the flavors of Italy shine through!
