Appetizers with Sun-Dried Tomatoes for Fresh and Savory Starters

Sun-dried tomatoes can instantly add depth to both simple snacks and more complex dishes.

I’ve used them in everything from creamy goat cheese crostini to Mediterranean pasta salads. Yum!

Their concentrated flavor comes from drying ripe tomatoes, giving them a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with crisp breads or fresh vegetables.

You can fold them into savory dips, scatter them over flatbreads, or toss them into grain salads for instant color and flavor contrast!how to speed up a

1. Sun-Dried Tomato Ricotta Crostini

It’s hard to beat the combo of creamy ricotta and tangy, chewy sun-dried tomatoes.

The ricotta’s smooth texture just works with those tomatoes, making each bite feel fresh but rich.

For crunch, toast a crusty baguette until golden.

I usually add a bit of fresh basil—it really brightens things up.

Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes bring a subtle richness that blends right in with the ricotta.

2. Mozzarella and Sun-Dried Tomato Bites

There’s something about pairing creamy mozzarella with sun-dried tomatoes that just works.

I go for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes—they’re already tender and rich.

Chopped walnuts add a nice crunch against the soft cheese and chewy tomatoes.

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add color and a pop of freshness.

3. Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Roll-Ups

Soft tortillas help the spirals hold their shape and slice neatly.

Cream cheese gives a smooth base for parmesan, spinach, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes to come together.

Sun-dried tomatoes bring that rich, concentrated flavor that plays so well with fresh basil.

Chill the rolls before slicing if you want cleaner, more even pieces.

Try spinach or tomato tortillas for extra color and flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.

4. Zucchini Rolls with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Thin zucchini slices make a surprisingly good wrapper for a fresh, flavorful filling.

Use a peeler or mandoline for even, flexible slices that won’t break when you roll them.

The salty feta and the tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes really complement each other.

Fresh basil and a touch of garlic finish each bite with a bright, aromatic kick.

5. Sun-Dried Tomato Bruschetta

Pick a crusty baguette or rustic bread so it holds up under the toppings.

Spread on a creamy mix of ricotta and cream cheese for a rich base.

Chop the sun-dried tomatoes fine so you get even flavor in every bite.

I toss in a pinch of dried oregano for a little earthy depth.

Drizzle some olive oil over the bread before toasting if you want more flavor.

Serve warm so the cheese softens just a bit against the crunchy bread.

6. Cream Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Crackers

Spread smooth cream cheese on your favorite crackers for a rich base.

Marinated sun-dried tomato strips bring a deeper flavor that pairs perfectly with the creaminess.

I always pat the tomatoes dry first so the crackers don’t get soggy.

Top with fresh basil for a burst of color and a bright herbal note.

Perfect for quick snacks or casual get-togethers, honestly.

7. Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Pinwheels

These sun-dried tomato basil pinwheels are quick to make and work well for a summer get-together.

You only need about 15 minutes to put them together—not bad if you want something fresh without a lot of fuss.

The sun-dried tomatoes give a rich, tangy flavor that’s great with the fresh basil.

I stick with soft tortillas or flatbread so the pinwheels roll up nicely and keep their shape.

8. Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms

Pair crumbly feta with deep, savory sun-dried tomatoes for a rich bite.

The mushrooms act like little cups, holding all that cheesy, herby goodness as they bake.

Using sun-dried tomatoes gives a concentrated tomato flavor that balances the salty feta.

A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top finishes things off with a crisp bite against the juicy mushroom.

9. Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Crostini

Swap your usual basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto and you’ll get a richer, deeper flavor right away.

The concentrated tomatoes bring a sweet, tangy kick that’s perfect with the crunch of toasted baguette.

I like a sun-dried tomato pesto with a bit of garlic for extra depth.

Drizzle on some good olive oil and every bite gets even better.

10. Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Puff Pastry Bites

Thawed puff pastry is easiest to handle and stays flaky when baked.

The rich flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and tender spinach make a balanced filling.

I like to toss in feta or goat cheese for tang and to help bind the filling.

Cut the pastry into small squares so you get a good ratio of pastry to filling in each bite.

11. Sun-Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Tartlets

These mini tartlets mix tangy goat cheese with the rich flavor of sun-dried tomatoes for a balanced bite.

Store-bought puff pastry saves time and still gives you that flaky, golden crust.

Chop the sun-dried tomatoes fine so they blend with the creamy cheese and you get the same flavor in every bite.

For a lighter texture, try phyllo cups instead of pastry.

12. Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus Dip

Blend sun-dried tomatoes with chickpeas, garlic, and lemon juice for a rich, tangy dip.

The tomatoes bring a concentrated sweetness that balances earthy chickpeas.

Tahini gives the hummus a creamy texture that’s easy to spread.

Serve with crisp veggies or warm pita for a quick snack.

I like oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth and a silky finish.

Check out this sun-dried tomato hummus recipe if you want more ideas.

13. Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Tapenade

Blend sun-dried tomatoes with briny olives and tangy capers for a rich, savory flavor.

The tomatoes add a deep, slightly sweet note that balances the saltiness of the olives.

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten things up and keep it tasting fresh even after chilling.

This spread is fantastic on crostini or crackers, and honestly, it works as a quick pasta toss base too.

Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes give a smoother texture and richer flavor right from the start.

Blend in a spoonful of soft goat cheese if you want a creamier version.