Sugar-Free Red Pesto Sauce

Bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors, this Sugar-Free Red Pesto Sauce is a vibrant and guilt-free twist on the classic. Made with naturally sweet sun-dried tomatoes (no added sugar), smoky roasted red peppers, fragrant basil, and toasted pine nuts, this wholesome sauce is richly textured and perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or dipping. Parmesan cheese adds savory depth, while a splash of zesty lemon juice brightens the profile. Crafted in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, this red pesto is packed with flavor, free from refined sugars, and effortlessly versatile. Store it in the fridge or freezer for a quick-fix condiment that elevates any meal!

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:0 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 100 grams Sun-dried tomatoes (no added sugar)
• 150 grams Roasted red peppers
• 30 grams Fresh basil leaves
• 50 grams Pine nuts
• 50 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 pieces Garlic cloves
• 120 milliliters Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper

Directions

Step 1

If using sun-dried tomatoes that are not packed in oil, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes until they soften. Drain thoroughly before use.

Step 2

In a skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the pine nuts until they are golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let them cool.

Step 3

Peel the garlic cloves and roughly chop them to make blending easier.

Step 4

In a food processor, combine the softened sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped garlic.

Step 5

Pulse several times until the mixture starts to come together, scraping down the sides of the processor as needed.

Step 6

While the processor is running, gradually drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture achieves a thick, saucy consistency.

Step 7

Add lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the processor. Blend once more until everything is fully combined and the pesto is smooth, yet slightly textured.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lemon juice to suit your preference.

Step 9

Transfer the sugar-free red pesto sauce to a jar or airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing small portions for future use.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(524.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1813.9

Total Fat 163.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 28.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 17.1g
Cholesterol 50mg	0%
Sodium 2068.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 69.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.8g	0%
Total Sugars 37.9g
Protein 42.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 713.3mg	0%
Iron 9.5mg	0%
Potassium 3720.1mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 76.7%

Protein: 8.8%

Carbs: 14.5%