Dried Tomato Pesto

Original recipe from Animal Vegetable Miracle.

This sauce/dip is deliciously flavor-packed and nutritious! It makes great use of non-juicy tomato varieties.

Ingredients:

• 2 c dried tomatoes
• 1 c walnuts
• 3/4 c olive oil
• 1/3 c Parmesan
• 1/4 c dried basil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 t garlic powder for less pungency--I prefer this)
• 2 T balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 t salt

Directions:

1. If using dried tomatoes that are packed in a liquid, they will be fairly soft. If using tomatoes you dehydrated yourself, you will want to rehydrate the tomatoes by soaking them in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Drain and discard the water.
2. Puree all ingredients in a blender or food processor.
3. Spread on toast, bread, crackers, or use as sauce for pasta or pizza.