Substitute for Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 4 Savory Matches
The best substitute for sun-dried tomatoes is Tomato Paste at a 1 tbsp paste per 3-4 sun-dried tomatoes ratio. It works best for sauces, dressings, soups. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Tomato Paste
1 tbsp paste per 3-4 sun-dried tomatoes
Concentrated tomato flavor without the chewy texture. Stir into sauces and dressings where you want depth rather than texture.
What are the other substitutes for sun-dried tomatoes?
Roasted Red Peppers
1:1 (diced)
Sweet and slightly smoky. Similar softness to oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. Works in pasta, salads, and sandwiches.
Fresh Tomatoes (oven-roasted)
2 cups fresh per 1/2 cup sun-dried
Halve Roma tomatoes, slow-roast at 250F for 2-3 hours with olive oil and salt. Concentrates flavor to approach sun-dried intensity.
Dried Mushrooms (rehydrated)
1:1
Provides similar umami depth and chewy texture. Rehydrate in warm water for 20 minutes. Save soaking liquid for sauces.
What should you know before substituting sun-dried tomatoes?
Dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes should be rehydrated in hot water for 15-20 minutes before using. Oil-packed are ready to use. Save the flavored oil from the jar to use in dressings and for sauteing.
How do you substitute sun-dried tomatoes in a recipe?
Tomatoes that have been dried to concentrate their sweetness and umami flavor into an intensely savory, chewy ingredient. Available dry-packed or oil-packed. Used in pasta, salads, breads, and Mediterranean dishes.
The best substitute for sun-dried tomatoes depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Tomato Paste (1 tbsp paste per 3-4 sun-dried tomatoes), which works well for sauces, dressings, soups.
If you need a different option, Roasted Red Peppers (1:1 (diced)) is another reliable choice. Sweet and slightly smoky. Similar softness to oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. Works in pasta, salads, and sandwiches.
When substituting sun-dried tomatoes, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Tomato paste provides concentrated tomato flavor (use 1 tablespoon per 3-4 sun-dried tomatoes). For texture, diced roasted red peppers at a 1:1 ratio offer similar sweetness and softness.
Can I make sun-dried tomatoes at home?
Yes. Halve Roma tomatoes, sprinkle with salt, and slow-roast at 250F for 2-3 hours until shriveled and concentrated. They will not be as intensely dried as commercial versions but have excellent flavor.