why make this recipe
This bruschetta dip gives fresh tomato flavor with a creamy cheese base. It is quick to make and looks bright on a party table. Guests will love the fresh basil, garlic, and the mix of tangy feta with smooth cream cheese. It is an easy way to turn classic bruschetta flavors into a shareable dip.
introduction
This Bruschetta Dip mixes marinated tomatoes and herbs with a creamy cheese layer. You can make it ahead and bring it to parties. For another easy party snack that pairs well with dips, try Tater Tot Appetizer Cups.
how to make Bruschetta Dip
Make the tomato topping first so it can sit and marinate. Then blend the cheeses into a smooth base. Spoon the tomato mix over the cheese layer right before serving. Chill briefly for best texture and flavor.
Ingredients :
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., 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., 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., 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., 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., 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., 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., 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., 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., 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., 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., 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., 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., 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., 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., 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 :
Follow these clear steps. Work with fresh cold cheese, and let the tomato mix sit so flavors blend.
Preparing the Bruschetta:
Cut the Roma tomatoes into small dice. Put the diced tomatoes in a bowl. Add chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently and let this sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes so the flavors marry.
Preparing the Cheese Mixture:
Soften the cream cheese so it mixes easily. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, crumbled feta, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth. Taste and add salt if needed, keeping in mind the feta is salty. The mixture should be creamy and spreadable.
Assembling the Dip:
Spread the cheese mixture in the bottom of a shallow serving dish. Spoon the marinated tomato mix over the cheese in an even layer. Sprinkle with extra chopped basil, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan. Serve right away or chill for 10–15 minutes before serving.
how to serve Bruschetta Dip
Serve with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks. Spoon the dip onto crostini for a bite-sized snack. Let guests spread a little cheese layer, then top with tomatoes for the best texture.
how to store Bruschetta Dip
Cover the dip tightly and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the tomato topping separate from the cheese base if you want to store longer or prepare ahead; combine just before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the tomatoes and cream cheeses will change.
tips to make Bruschetta Dip
- Use ripe Roma tomatoes for best flavor and less water.
- Drain excess tomato juice if your tomatoes are very wet.
- Soften cream cheese to avoid lumps in the base.
- Let the tomato mix rest to deepen flavor.
- Taste and adjust salt after mixing the cheeses because feta adds salt.
variation (if any)
- Swap feta for goat cheese for a milder tang.
- Add chopped roasted red peppers to the topping for sweetness.
- Mix in chopped olives for a briny twist.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to lighten the dip.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make the cheese base a day ahead and chill. Keep the tomatoes separate and add them just before serving for the freshest texture.
Q: Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian if you use Parmesan made without animal rennet. Check the cheese labels if needed.
Q: Can I use other tomatoes?
A: You can, but Roma tomatoes are best because they are firmer and less watery. If you use softer tomatoes, drain extra juice before mixing.
Q: How spicy is the dip?
A: The dip is mild. Add more red pepper flakes if you want more heat.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: To make a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cream cheese and skip feta or use a plant-based feta substitute. Adjust salt and lemon to taste.
Bruschetta Dip
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and creamy bruschetta dip with marinated tomatoes, herbs, and a blend of creamy cheeses, perfect for sharing at 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 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- More basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bruschetta: Combine diced Roma tomatoes, basil, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Stir gently and let sit for 15–20 minutes at room temperature.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: Soften cream cheese and beat in a bowl with sour cream, crumbled feta, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth. Add salt to taste.
- Assemble the Dip: Spread the cheese mixture in a shallow serving dish, then top with the marinated tomato mix. Garnish with extra basil, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan. Chill for 10–15 minutes if desired before serving.
Notes
Serve with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or vegetable sticks. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, keeping the topping separate if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
