Description
This Bruschetta Dip is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer that combines marinated Roma tomatoes and fresh basil with a creamy cheese mixture of feta, cream cheese, and sour cream. It’s garnished with parmesan, red pepper flakes, and basil for added color and taste, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a tasty snack.
Ingredients
For the Bruschetta:
- 4 Roma tomatoes, cored and diced
- ¼ cup basil leaves, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1–2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt, to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz feta cheese block, 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
For Garnishing:
- More basil leaves, chopped
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
- Preparing the Bruschetta: Core and dice the Roma tomatoes into small cubes, optionally removing seeds for less moisture. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle with salt. Toss gently to coat evenly. Allow the mixture to marinate for 10 minutes to let flavors meld and tomatoes release their juices.
- Preparing the Cheese Mixture: In a food processor, combine crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Puree for 3-4 minutes until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste and adjust salt carefully, considering the feta’s saltiness.
- Assembling the Dip: Spread the smooth cheese mixture evenly in a shallow serving dish to form the base layer. Spoon the marinated bruschetta mixture evenly on top, distributing tomatoes and basil uniformly. Garnish with chopped basil, red pepper flakes, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for color, flavor, and texture enhancements.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta, or extra cream cheese for milder or different textures.
- Tomato Variations: Use cherry or heirloom tomatoes for different sweetness or tang profiles.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Add herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley, or spices such as onion powder and garlic powder to customize flavor.
- Vegan Option: Replace dairy cheeses with plant-based alternatives such as cashew cream, coconut yogurt, or vegan feta for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
