Description
Experience the essence of Italian culinary joy with this vibrant and flavorful Bruschetta Dip. Combining a fresh tomato, basil, and garlic topping with a creamy, tangy feta and cream cheese base, it’s a delightfully shareable appetizer perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for tomato mixture)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for tomato mixture)
- 1–2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt, to taste (for tomato mixture)
- 8 oz feta cheese block, crumbled
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for cheese mixture)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cheese mixture)
- Salt, to taste (for cheese mixture)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- 1–2 baguettes or ciabatta loaves, sliced (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare Tomato Mixture: Wash, core, and deseed 4 Roma tomatoes, then dice into 1/4 to 1/2-inch pieces. Mince 1 garlic clove finely. Chop 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, 1-2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar, and salt to taste. Gently toss to combine. Let this mixture marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare Creamy Cheese Base: Ensure 4 oz cream cheese is softened. In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 8 oz crumbled feta cheese, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 finely minced garlic clove, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and salt to taste. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare Dippers: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice 1-2 baguettes or ciabatta loaves diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Arrange on a baking sheet, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and toast for 8-12 minutes until golden brown and crisp. For extra flavor, rub toasted bread with a cut garlic clove (optional). Let cool slightly.
- Assemble and Serve Dip: Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly into a beautiful serving bowl. Spoon the marinated tomato mixture over the cheese base. Garnish with additional chopped fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve immediately with the toasted baguette or ciabatta slices.
Notes
- Let the tomato mixture marinate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
- Toast the bread just before serving for optimal crispness.
- Adjust the seasoning in the cheese mixture to your preference.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing and Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg