Calories are not a concern for backpackers. Be generous with the olive oil. More is better. Commercial freeze dried food is OK these days, but the minor extra weight for fine moist ingredients creates a fabulous reward for your exertion, not to mention a better workout. The few extra ounces for real cheese, balsamic vinegar, capers, an onion, and nuts mean a world of difference in the pot.
Fresh herbs travel well for several days, and they can be refreshed in cool water.
Sun dried tomatoes, dried mushrooms, dried spices, and Parmesan cheese weigh next to nothing. Food purchased in a grocery store is likely to taste better and cost lots less than food purchased in a camping store. Test your creativity on your spouse at home. Carry moist ingredients in a wide-mouthed soft Nalgene bottle, and eliminate the air space with olive oil. No sense lugging glass and cans in and back out of the mountains.