Transform your breakfast: Walnut and sun‑dried tomato spread

Breakfast sandwiches needn't be boring. There are countless ways to serve them, and it’s a shame to limit yourself to just cheese and tomatoes. Homemade sandwich spreads are a marvellous option. Instead of the standard egg spread, I prefer a completely different recipe.

The variety of prepared sandwich spreads is extensive, but examining the ingredients on the package can sometimes be less than appealing. Fortunately, making a delicious, homemade sandwich spread is neither complex nor time-consuming. In my household, the spread made from walnuts and sun-dried tomatoes is immensely popular, disappearing so quickly that I often must prepare more immediately.

This spread is perfect for a quick and healthy breakfast, a snack, or a sandwich complement. The preparation is straightforward, though it's advisable to make it the day before to allow the flavours to meld. It’s tasty and vegan, making it irresistible to any lover of good food.

The combination of sun-dried tomato sweetness, salty soy sauce, and tangy lemon juice creates a unique umami flavour in this spread. Walnuts add a creamy texture and rich aroma, while fresh chives offer a pleasant freshness. If you fancy spicy flavours, you can add a touch of chilli or cayenne pepper.

Ingredients:

                              
• 1 ½ cups of walnuts
• 4 sun-dried tomatoes in oil or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of tomato concentrate
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons of chopped chives
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Combine the finely chopped walnuts in a blender with drained sun-dried tomatoes, tomato concentrate, chopped shallot, soy sauce, and squeezed lemon juice.
2. Blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth, creamy spread.
3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and add the chopped chives.
4. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and mix thoroughly.

Store the prepared spread in an airtight container in the fridge. For an even more intense flavour, leave it overnight before serving. Enjoy it on your favourite bread, spread it on a tortilla, or serve it as a dip with sliced vegetable sticks. Bon appétit!