Why make this recipe
Bruschetta Dip is a delightful appetizer that brings together the fresh flavors of tomatoes, basil, and creamy cheese. It’s easy to make and will impress your guests at any gathering. The vibrant colors and inviting aroma make it perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a fun night at home. With a combination of fresh ingredients and simple preparation, this dip is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
How to make Bruschetta Dip
Ingredients:
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4 Roma tomatoes: Roma tomatoes are the perfect choice for bruschetta due to their firm texture and lower moisture content compared to other tomato varieties. This allows them to hold their shape well and prevents the dip from becoming too watery. Roma tomatoes have a sweet, mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients in the dip, providing the perfect base for the bruschetta topping.
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¼ cup basil leaves, chopped: Fresh basil is essential for the aromatic and herbal freshness it brings to the dip. The slightly sweet, peppery flavor of basil adds a burst of brightness that complements the tomatoes and the creamy cheese mixture. Make sure to chop the basil leaves finely to ensure that they’re evenly distributed throughout the dip, enhancing the overall flavor in every bite.
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1 garlic clove, minced: Garlic is one of the key ingredients that adds depth and savory notes to the bruschetta mixture. Minced garlic releases its oils and pungency, infusing the fresh tomatoes and basil with its robust flavor. It’s essential to mince the garlic finely so that it integrates seamlessly with the other ingredients without overpowering the dish.
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1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil serves as the base for the marinated bruschetta, helping to bring together the tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle richness and fruitiness that enhances the overall taste of the dip. Make sure to use high-quality olive oil, as its flavor will significantly impact the final dish.
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1-2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar: Balsamic vinegar adds a layer of acidity and a touch of sweetness that helps to balance the richness of the cheese mixture. It also enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes, creating a perfect contrast to their sweetness. The amount of vinegar can be adjusted based on personal taste; start with one teaspoon and add more if you prefer a tangier flavor.
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Salt, to taste: A pinch of salt is necessary to bring out the natural flavors of the fresh ingredients. The salt will also help to draw out the juices from the tomatoes, allowing the ingredients to marinate and combine into a flavorful mixture.
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8 oz feta cheese block, crumbled: Feta cheese is a key component in this creamy cheese mixture, offering a salty, tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the tomatoes. The crumbled texture of feta also adds a delightful bite to the dip, providing some structure and texture against the smoothness of the cream cheese and sour cream. If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese or ricotta can be used as alternatives, though the flavor will differ slightly.
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½ block cream cheese (4 oz): Cream cheese contributes a smooth, velvety texture that balances the tangy, crumbly feta cheese. The richness of the cream cheese helps to create a creamy base that complements the fresh tomatoes and herbs. Make sure the cream cheese is softened before blending to achieve the smoothest consistency.
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½ cup sour cream: Sour cream adds a tangy note to the cheese mixture, enhancing the overall flavor and adding richness to the dip. It helps to create a creamy texture while also balancing the richness of the cream cheese. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the dip.
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1 garlic clove, minced: Garlic is added to the cheese mixture to infuse it with savory depth. The minced garlic works well in the dip, contributing its characteristic pungency and rounding out the overall flavor profile. Make sure to mince the garlic finely so that it blends well into the cheese base.
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1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed: Lemon juice brightens up the cheese mixture, offering a fresh, zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese and sour cream. The acidity of the lemon juice helps to balance the creamy texture and adds a refreshing note that complements the other ingredients.
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1 tablespoon olive oil: Olive oil helps to smooth out the texture of the cheese mixture, making it easier to blend and ensuring a creamy consistency. It also adds a bit of richness to the cheese base, helping it to meld together with the other ingredients.
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Salt, to taste: Just like with the bruschetta topping, a pinch of salt is necessary to bring out the flavors in the cheese mixture. Be careful not to over-salt, as the feta cheese already adds a significant amount of saltiness.
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More basil leaves, chopped: Fresh basil is the perfect garnish for this dip, adding a burst of color and freshness. The basil’s aromatic flavor enhances the overall taste and adds a fragrant finish to each bite.
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Red pepper flakes: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat to the dip, creating a lovely contrast to the creamy and tangy elements. The red pepper flakes can be adjusted based on your preference for spice; a little goes a long way in adding warmth without overpowering the dish.
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Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the perfect finishing touch for this dip. It adds a salty, umami-packed punch that complements the feta cheese and balances the richness of the cream cheese. The Parmesan also provides a bit of texture and visual appeal, making the dip even more inviting.
Directions:
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Preparing the Bruschetta: In a bowl, combine the chopped Roma tomatoes, basil leaves, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Mix gently to combine. Let this mixture sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Preparing the Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, blend the crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth. Add salt to taste.
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Assembling the Dip: In a serving dish, layer the creamy cheese mixture on the bottom. Spoon the tomato and basil mixture on top. Garnish with extra chopped basil, red pepper flakes, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
How to serve Bruschetta Dip
Serve your Bruschetta Dip with a variety of dippers like crusty bread, toasted pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks. This dip is best enjoyed fresh but can also be refrigerated for a short period. Just allow it to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
How to store Bruschetta Dip
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 2-3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, and consider adding a little fresh basil on top to refresh its appearance.
Tips to make Bruschetta Dip
- For the best flavor, let the tomato mixture marinate for longer if you have time.
- Feel free to adjust the levels of garlic, vinegar, and spices according to your taste.
- Use high-quality feta and olive oil for a better flavor experience.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, you can add diced black olives or roasted red peppers to the bruschetta mixture for added flavor and texture. To make it even creamier, try substituting Greek yogurt for the sour cream.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture a day in advance. Just add the tomato topping right before serving to keep the flavors fresh.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute goat cheese or ricotta; just be aware that the flavors will be different.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding diced bell peppers, artichokes, or even a splash of hot sauce for some kick.
Bruschetta Dip
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful appetizer featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, and creamy cheese, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 Roma tomatoes, diced
- ¼ cup basil leaves, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1–2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ block cream cheese (4 oz), softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- More basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the chopped Roma tomatoes, basil leaves, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Mix gently to combine. Let this mixture sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- In another bowl, blend the crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth. Add salt to taste.
- In a serving dish, layer the creamy cheese mixture on the bottom. Spoon the tomato and basil mixture on top. Garnish with extra chopped basil, red pepper flakes, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For best flavor, let the tomato mixture marinate longer. Adjust the levels of garlic, vinegar, and spices to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
