Sun-Dried Tomato Torta

This delightful and versatile appetizer, known as the Torta, is a must-have for your next party or gathering. The combination of flavors and textures creates an exquisite dish that will impress your guests and leave them asking for more. The torta is made up of layers of sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and a creamy cheese mixture, all resting on a base of buttery goodness. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld and reach their peak deliciousness. Whether served with crackers or toasted baguette slices, this Torta promises to be a show-stopping addition to any event.

INGREDIENTS:

• ½ cup prepared pesto (recipe follows if you prefer to make your own)
• 1 small jar (about 1 cup) sun-dried tomatoes in oil
• ⅓ cup tomato paste
• 1½ sticks unsalted butter
• 3 8-ounce packages cream cheese (nonfat, low fat, or regular), you will have some left over
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh basil (garnish)
• Toasted pine nuts (garnish)
• Crackers or baguette slices for serving

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a food processor, pulse together the sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste until smooth. Add ⅓ cup of cream cheese and process until well blended. Set aside.
2. Mix the prepared pesto with ⅓ cup of cream cheese and set it aside.
3. With a mixer, beat 2 cups of cream cheese with the softened butter. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set it aside.
4. Line a small lightly oiled springform pan or 6-cup soufflé dish with plastic wrap, ensuring that the wrap extends up and over the sides for easy removal.
5. Spread ¾ cup of the butter mixture on the bottom of the lined pan or dish, making sure to spread it to the edges.
6. Layer the Torta as follows: one-half of the pesto mixture, a layer of the butter mixture, followed by the sun-dried tomato mixture.
7. Continue layering in this pattern until all the mixtures are used up.
8. Fold the plastic wrap over the top of the Torta and refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
9. To serve, invert the Torta onto a serving platter, removing the plastic wrap.
10. Garnish the Torta with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil leaves.
11. Serve the Torta with crackers or thin toasted baguette slices, and enjoy!

For Pesto:

1. In a food processor, pulse the garlic until minced.
2. Add the fresh basil leaves and process until finely minced.
3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and lemon juice. Continue processing until the mixture reaches a paste-like consistency.
4. Gradually add the olive oil through the top while the food processor is running, pulsing until well blended.
5. Season the pesto with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

TIPS:

• Preparation in Advance: As mentioned in the recipe, allowing the Torta to rest overnight in the refrigerator is highly recommended. This resting period allows the flavors to come together, resulting in a more harmonious and flavorful dish.

• Choosing Cream Cheese: You have the option to use nonfat, low-fat, or regular cream cheese based on your dietary preferences. Ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth consistency.

• Springform Pan or Soufflé Dish: You can use either a small lightly oiled springform pan or a 6-cup soufflé dish for assembling the Torta. The plastic wrap lining is essential to facilitate easy removal and presentation.

• Garnishing: To enhance the visual appeal and add a burst of flavor, garnish the Torta with fresh basil leaves and toasted pine nuts. These finishing touches complement the dish beautifully.

• Pesto Preparation: If you decide to make your own pesto, use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best results. You can adjust the quantities of garlic, basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to suit your taste.

This Torta appetizer, with its beautiful layers of flavor, will undoubtedly steal the show at any gathering. The combination of tangy sun-dried tomatoes, aromatic pesto, and creamy cheese creates a rich and delightful experience for your taste buds. Prepare it ahead of time, and you’ll have a show-stopping dish ready to impress your guests effortlessly. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and textures in this delectable Torta!