Description
This Bruschetta Dip is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer combining fresh, marinated Roma tomatoes with a creamy, tangy cheese mixture. Layered with a blend of feta, cream cheese, sour cream, and aromatic herbs, then garnished with basil, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan, this dip offers a perfect balance of freshness and richness. Ideal for entertaining, it’s quick to prepare and sure to delight your guests with its bright Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- Prepare the Bruschetta: Core and dice the Roma tomatoes into small cubes, removing seeds if preferred to reduce wateriness. Place them in a medium bowl and add chopped basil and minced garlic. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle salt. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all tomatoes are evenly coated. Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: While the bruschetta marinates, combine crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor. Puree for 3-4 minutes until smooth and creamy. Scrape down sides as needed for uniform consistency. Taste and cautiously add salt if needed, considering feta’s saltiness.
- Assemble the Dip: Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly in a shallow serving dish as the base layer. Spoon the marinated bruschetta topping over the cheese layer, distributing tomatoes and basil evenly. Garnish with freshly chopped basil, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to add subtle heat, and a generous dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to finish.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta, or cream cheese for a milder flavor and different texture.
- Tomato Variations: Use cherry or heirloom tomatoes as alternatives to Roma, which may offer different sweetness or tanginess.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Add herbs such as oregano, thyme, or parsley, or include onion powder, garlic powder, or extra crushed red pepper for an intensified flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: Replace dairy cheeses with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream, coconut yogurt, or vegan feta for a vegan-friendly dip.
