Description
This vibrant and creamy appetizer transforms classic bruschetta into an irresistible party dip. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chiffonade
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep Toppings: In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, and fresh basil.
- Dress Mixture: Drizzle the olive oil over the tomato mixture. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and stir gently to combine.
- Prepare Base: In your serving dish, spread the softened cream cheese into an even layer.
- Assemble Dip: Carefully spoon the tomato mixture evenly over the top of the cream cheese base.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle generously with the balsamic glaze. Serve immediately with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- Use Ripe Tomatoes: Since tomatoes are the star, using ripe, flavorful ones will make a huge difference. Roma or cherry tomatoes work best. If using larger tomatoes, scoop out the seeds to prevent the dip from getting watery.
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Don’t skip this step! Softening the cream cheese on the counter for about 30 minutes ensures the base is smooth and scoopable, not lumpy.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tomato mixture may release some liquid; you can gently drain it before serving again.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/4 cup
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: bruschetta dip recipe, tomato appetizer, party dip, easy appetizer, crostini dip, cream cheese dip