Low Sodium Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
Elevate your mealtime with this vibrant and flavorful Low Sodium Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto! Crafted with unsalted, oil-free sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy unsalted cashews (or walnuts), this pesto is a heart-healthy twist on a classic favorite. Lightly seasoned with freshly squeezed lemon juice and black pepper, and enhanced by the subtle richness of Parmesan cheese—or skipped entirely for a vegan version—this versatile sauce is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a zesty dip for veggies. With just 10 minutes of prep time and no cooking required, this easy recipe is a breeze for busy days. Whether you're seeking a lower sodium alternative or a vegan-friendly condiment, this homemade sun-dried tomato pesto delivers bold, savory flavor without compromise.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Sun-dried tomatoes (not packed in oil, unsalted)
- 1 cup Fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 cup Raw, unsalted cashews (or walnuts)
- 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (low-sodium or omit for vegan option)
- 2 large Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 0.5 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Water
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper (optional)
Instructions
Place the sun-dried tomatoes in a heatproof bowl and cover with boiling water. Soak for 5-10 minutes until softened, then drain and set aside.
In a food processor, combine the soaked sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, unsalted cashews (or walnuts), grated Parmesan cheese (if using), and garlic cloves.
Pulse the mixture until it starts to come together into a coarse paste.
Add the lemon juice, olive oil, and water to the food processor. Blend the mixture until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Adjust the texture by adding more water, one tablespoon at a time, if necessary.
Taste the pesto and season with black pepper, if desired. Avoid adding salt to keep the recipe low in sodium.
Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week, or freeze for up to three months.
Use as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or vegetable dip. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1845 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 154.9 g | 199% | |
| Saturated Fat | 31.5 g | 158% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 12 mg | 4% | |
| Sodium | 228 mg | 10% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 87.5 g | 32% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.3 g | 48% | |
| Total Sugars | 44.8 g | ||
| Protein | 49.4 g | 99% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 807 mg | 62% | |
| Iron | 10.1 mg | 56% | |
| Potassium | 3963 mg | 84% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
