Motherhood demands steady, reliable energy, and this vibrant, plant-based spread is designed to give you just that. Packed with whole food ingredients, it's the perfect savoury snack to keep in your fridge for those busy days when you need a quick, nutritious bite. Taking a moment for yourself is easier when healthy, delicious energy is readily available.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Soaking time: 30 minutes
Yields: 1.5 cups
Ingredients
- 125g (just under 1 cup) sunflower seeds
- 70g (approx 12) sun-dried tomatoes (not oil-packed)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon mixed dried herbs (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- A good pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- 6 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Place the sunflower seeds and sun-dried tomatoes into a heat-proof bowl.
- Cover with plenty of boiling water and leave to soak for half an hour.
- Drain the seeds and tomatoes very well in a sieve.
- Add to a blender, along with the tomato paste, olive oil, lemon juice, dried herbs, garlic powder, maple syrup, salt, water and a good pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
- Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides of the blender when needed to ensure a creamy texture.
- Transfer the spread into a sterilised container, cover securely, and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Sterilising your jar
Taking a few extra moments to sterilise your jar will help ensure your spread stays fresh for the full five days.
- Thoroughly wash your jar and lid in warm soapy water and rinse well.
- Place the jar in the sink and carefully fill to the brim with boiling water.
- Leave the hot water in the jar for about 5 minutes to eliminate any lingering bacteria.
- Carefully tip out the boiling water and leave the jar to air dry completely on a clean tea towel before filling it with your fresh spread.
Pro Tips:
- Natural Vitality: Sunflower seeds are naturally rich in Vitamin B6 and Vitamin E, supporting your daily energy levels and promoting healthy, glowing skin.
- Versatile Snack: Spread it generously on toasted sourdough, use it as a savoury dip for crunchy cucumber and carrot sticks, or stir a spoonful into warm pasta for an effortless lunch.
- Prep Ahead: If you prefer to skip the boiling water step, you can soak the seeds and tomatoes overnight in cold water in the fridge and blend everything together the next morning.
