Bruschetta Dip

This 5-Minute Bruschetta Dip is a creamy, garlicky, and fresh appetizer that delivers all the classic flavors of bruschetta in a shareable, no-fuss format. With a whipped feta and cream cheese base topped with basil-infused tomatoes and a balsamic glaze, it’s an elegant yet incredibly simple starter perfect for any gathering.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this recipe because it comes together in just 5 minutes with minimal effort, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining. The combination of tangy whipped feta and creamy cheese creates a luxurious base that pairs perfectly with the fresh, garlicky tomato topping. It’s versatile enough to be served as a dip with crusty bread, used as a pasta sauce, or even spread on sandwiches. Plus, it can be prepped ahead, so you can enjoy time with your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Ingredients (with notes)

For the whipped feta and cream cheese:

• 300 g (10.5 oz) cream cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat, but the dip will be less rich.
• 200 g (7 oz) feta: Provides a tangy, salty contrast to the mild cream cheese. Goat cheese or Boursin are excellent substitutes.
• 3 tbsp olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its fruity flavor, but any good quality olive oil works.
• 1 lemon, zest only: Use fresh lemon zest for a bright, citrusy note that balances the richness.

For the basil tomatoes:

• 250 g (8.8 oz) cherry tomatoes: Fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes are key for sweetness. Plum tomatoes also work well.
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch (use ¼ tsp).
• 5 g fresh basil, finely sliced: Fresh basil is ideal. Parsley or dill can be substituted for a different herb profile.

Toppings:

• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze: Adds a sweet and tangy finish. To make your own, simmer ¼ cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tsp honey or sugar until reduced by half.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Step 1: Make the Creamy Base. In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, feta, lemon zest, 3 tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Step 2: Blend Until Smooth. Process the mixture until it’s completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
• Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Topping. While the cheese blends, chop the cherry tomatoes and place them in a bowl. Add 2 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, sliced basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
• Step 4: Assemble and Serve. Spread the whipped cheese mixture onto a serving plate or shallow bowl. Top evenly with the basil and tomato mixture. Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately with warm, toasted baguette slices.

Expert Tips / Pro Tips

• Quality Matters: Use the best quality olive oil and fresh, ripe tomatoes you can find, as they are the star flavors.
• Perfect Texture: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before blending for an ultra-smooth, lump-free base.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prep the components separately for easy assembly. Store the whipped cheese and tomato mixture in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Assemble just before serving to prevent the tomatoes from making the base watery.
• Serving Vessel: Use a wide, shallow bowl or plate for serving. This gives the perfect cheese-to-topping ratio in every scoop.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese and a firm vegan feta alternative. Ensure your balsamic glaze is vegan-friendly.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture or a finely chopped fresh chili.
• Herb Twists: Substitute basil with fresh oregano, mint, or chives for a different flavor profile.
• Extra Creamy: Add 2 tbsp of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the cheese blend for extra tang and a softer texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dip with warm, toasted slices of baguette or crusty ciabatta. For a lighter option, offer crisp crostini, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks like cucumber, bell pepper, and carrot. It also makes a fantastic pasta sauce—simply toss the entire dip with hot pasta and a splash of pasta water. For a complete spread, pair it with other appetizers like roasted red pepper hummus, marinated olives, or a charcuterie board.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the tomatoes will release more liquid over time.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the dairy base may separate and the tomatoes will become mushy upon thawing.
• Reheating: This dip is best served cold or at room temperature. If refrigerated, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 569kcal
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 54g
• Saturated Fat: 24g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 813mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g
• Nutrition information is approximate and per serving (recipe serves 4).

5-Minute Bruschetta Dip

A creamy, garlicky, and fresh appetizer that delivers all the classic flavors of bruschetta in a shareable, no-fuss format. Ready in just 5 minutes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 0 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Calories: 569

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Whipped Feta & Cream Cheese Base

• 300 g cream cheese room temperature, full-fat recommended
• 200 g feta cheese
• 3 tbsp olive oil extra virgin recommended
• 1 lemon, zest only

For the Basil Tomatoes

• 250 g cherry tomatoes chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 5 g fresh basil finely sliced

For Serving

• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
• toasted baguette slices or crackers for serving

Equipment

• Food Processor
• Mixing Bowl
• Knife & Cutting Board

Method

 

1. Make the Creamy Base: In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, feta, lemon zest, 3 tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
   300 g cream cheese, 200 g feta cheese, 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 lemon, zest only
2. Blend Until Smooth: Process the mixture until it’s completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
3. Prepare the Tomato Topping: While the cheese blends, chop the cherry tomatoes and place them in a bowl. Add 2 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, sliced basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
   250 g cherry tomatoes, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 clove garlic, 5 g fresh basil
4. Assemble and Serve: Spread the whipped cheese mixture onto a serving plate or shallow bowl. Top evenly with the basil and tomato mixture. Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately with warm, toasted baguette slices.
   1 tbsp balsamic glaze, toasted baguette slices or crackers

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth blend. Components can be prepped separately up to 24 hours in advance; assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.

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