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Pesto Rosso with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Basil, and Macadamia Nuts Recipe

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4 from 1 review

Pesto Rosso is a vibrant and flavorful red pesto made with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, macadamia nuts, and Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make sauce is perfect for adding a rich, savory punch to pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.

  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 8.5 oz sun-dried tomato halves packed in olive oil with herbs
  • 2 medium-sized garlic cloves
  • 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • 1/4 cup unsalted macadamia nuts
  • 2 tablespoons drained capers
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Additional extra virgin olive oil as needed

Instructions

  1. Add to food processor: Place the sun-dried tomato halves with their packed olive oil, garlic cloves, fresh basil, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, macadamia nuts, capers, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of kosher salt into the bowl of a food processor.
  2. Blend until smooth: Pulse the ingredients until you reach your preferred texture, whether smooth or slightly chunky, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.
  3. Adjust if needed: If the pesto is too thick, drizzle in extra virgin olive oil a little at a time and pulse until the desired consistency is achieved. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

  • This pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation.
  • Macadamia nuts can be substituted with pine nuts or walnuts based on preference.
  • Use the pesto as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for vegetables and crackers.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the macadamia nuts and increase the amount of cheese slightly.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Italian