Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Olive Oil Recipe: A Taste of Southern Italy
Have you ever been seduced by the intensely aromatic flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, preserved in oil to enhance every nuance of their taste? Today, I’ll guide you through one of the most authentic and beloved recipes from Southern Italy, which turns these red fruits into a true culinary treasure.
Imagine being able to rediscover the warmth of summer even in the colder months, thanks to a jar filled with Mediterranean flavors. The preparation is simple but requires patience: San Marzano tomatoes are gently dried under the scorching sun, just as it was done in the old days. I still remember when my grandmother would open the kitchen window and the aroma of garlic, oregano, and spicy chili, mixed with the unmistakable scent of sun-dried tomatoes, would fill the entire house.
Every bite is a journey into Calabrian traditions; perfect on their own or to enrich your favorite dishes. And if you want to add that extra personal touch, add a few leaves of fresh basil before submerging everything in extra-virgin olive oil. Get ready to create something that will not only satisfy your palate but also become part of your most cherished culinary memories.
Recipe Notes
- EASE: Easy to whip up with just a few ingredients.
- PROS: Long-term preservation, intense and Mediterranean flavor.
- PREPARATION: Cleaning and drying the tomatoes, assembling in a jar.
- NUTRITIONAL NOTES: Approximately 250 calories per 100g, packed with antioxidants and fiber.
Ingredients Notes for the Recipe
- Roma Tomatoes: perfect for an intense and Mediterranean flavor
- Garlic: adds a characteristic aroma to the sun-dried tomatoes
- Oregano: adds a touch of aromaticity to the preserve
- Hot chili pepper: for a typical Calabrian spiciness
- Extra-virgin olive oil: essential for preservation and flavor
Nutritional Aspects
Let’s discover the benefits of this traditional Calabrian recipe:
- San Marzano tomatoes: a great source of antioxidants and vitamin C.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Garlic: known for its antibacterial properties and immune-boosting effects.
- Oregano and chili flakes: natural anti-inflammatories that also kickstart metabolism.
- Low calorie content: approximately 250 Kcal per 100 grams, perfect for a balanced diet.
- Preserved in oil: maintains the nutrients of sun-dried tomatoes.
Sun-dried Tomatoes in Oil Calabrese Style Recipe
Ingredients
- As needed San Marzano Tomatoes not too large
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Oregano
- 1 fresh chili Chili Pepper hot
- to taste Salt
- to taste Olive Oil extra-virgin
Instructions
- Start by thoroughly cleaning the tomatoes with a soft cloth to remove any residual dirt.
- Cut the tomatoes in half lengthwise, being careful to leave them attached at the base to facilitate drying and maintain their shape.
- Place the tomatoes on a rack or drying net, making sure they are well spaced to allow proper air circulation.
- Allow the tomatoes to dry in the sun for at least three or four days, bringing them indoors each evening to protect them from nighttime humidity.
- Once the tomatoes are completely dry, place a small piece of garlic between the two halves of each tomato.
- Arrange the tomatoes in clay or glass jars in alternating layers with oregano and finely chopped hot chili pepper.
- Press the tomatoes down with a spoon to release air and compact them well in the jar.
- Completely cover the tomatoes with extra-virgin olive oil until they are fully submerged.
- Seal the jar and let it rest in a cool, dry place for at least a month before consuming.
Notes
Variations for Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Calabrian-Style Oil Recipe
Add your own twist to the recipe with these variations:
- Enhance the Mediterranean flavor by adding capers and Taggiasca olives
- Swap the spicy chili for sweet chili for a milder version
- Opt for cherry tomatoes for a different presentation, perfect for an appetizer
- Sprinkle in toasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture and a subtly nutty flavor
Frequently Asked Questions about Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil
If you’re unsure about how to prepare sun-dried tomatoes in oil, you’ll find answers to the most common questions here.
How can I store sun-dried tomatoes in oil?
Once prepared, seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dry place for at least a month before consuming them.
Can I substitute extra-virgin olive oil with another type of oil?
Yes, you can use other types of oil, but extra-virgin olive oil gives the best traditional flavor to the recipe.
How long does it take to sun-dry tomatoes?
The tomatoes should be left in the sun for at least three or four days, bringing them indoors each evening to protect them from nighttime moisture.
