Sun-dried tomato lemon sauce with lunch bowl
This creamy sun-dried tomato lemon sauce might just be my new favorite—I want to put it on everything. It’s rich, tangy, slightly nutty, and packs so much flavor with just a few simple ingredients. The best part? It’s dairy-free, super easy to make, and stores beautifully in the fridge.
I love using homemade sauces instead of dressings for my bowls and salads, and this one blends perfectly with greens, grains, proteins, or even pasta. Plus, if you haven’t invested in a salad chopper, trust me—it’s a game changer for getting the perfect mix in every bite.
Let’s get into it.
Ingredients
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed or rehydrated if dried)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- â…“ cup almonds
- 4 tbsp water (adjust for desired consistency)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
If using dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes to soften before blending. If using oil-packed tomatoes, simply drain excess oil.
Peel the garlic clove and gather all other ingredients.
Step 2: Blend the Sauce
In a food processor, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, almonds, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Blend for 30 seconds, then scrape down the sides.
Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give it a taste—need more tang? Add a bit more lemon juice. Want it thinner? Add another splash of water or olive oil. Craving a little heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes works well.
Step 4: Store and Enjoy
Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to a week.
The sauce will thicken slightly when chilled, so stir before using.
Flavor Profile
- Rich and savory from the sun-dried tomatoes
- Nutty and creamy from the almonds
- Bright and fresh from the lemon juice
- A touch of garlicky depth
How to Use This Sauce
- Drizzle over a bowl with greens, sautéed chicken, quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and cucumbers
- Toss with warm pasta and roasted vegetables
- Spread on toast with avocado, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of chili flakes
- Thin out with a little water or olive oil for a salad dressing
- Use as a marinade for chicken, tofu, or shrimp
- Spread over pizza dough before adding toppings for a Mediterranean-inspired pizza
This sun-dried tomato lemon sauce is a meal prep lifesaver, and it adds a bold, delicious flavor to anything you pair it with. Whether you’re using it for a quick weeknight meal or prepping ahead for busy days, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Try it out and let me know your favorite way to use it.
