This Bruschetta Dip is the ultimate 5-minute appetizer that combines creamy whipped cheeses with fresh, garlicky tomatoes and a sweet balsamic drizzle. It is a sophisticated yet incredibly simple dish that is perfect for dinner parties or a quick evening snack.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Bruschetta Dip because it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, from the thick creaminess of the whipped feta to the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes. It takes only five minutes to assemble, making it a stress-free option for entertaining guests. Additionally, this recipe is highly versatile; any leftovers can be repurposed as a delicious, creamy pasta sauce for the next day.
Ingredients
- 300 g full-fat cream cheese (or ricotta)
- 200 g feta cheese (or goat cheese)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for the cheese base
- 1 fresh lemon, zested
- 250 g cherry tomatoes or plum tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for the tomato topping
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 5 g fresh basil, finely sliced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, feta, lemon zest, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Blend the mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy. Taste the base and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the chopped cherry tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, and sliced fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper and toss to combine.
- Spread the whipped feta and cream cheese mixture onto the base of a serving plate or shallow bowl. Top with the garlicky basil tomatoes, drizzle with the balsamic glaze, and serve immediately with warm slices of crusty baguette.
Expert Tips / Pro Tips
To achieve the best flavor, always use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and the freshest cherry tomatoes available. The quality of these simple ingredients will significantly enhance the final taste of the dish. If you are planning to serve this at a party, you can prepare the components in advance. Simply store the whipped cheese and the tomato mixture in separate containers to prevent the dip from becoming too watery.
Variations & Substitutions
This Bruschetta Dip is easy to adapt to your preferences. If you do not have cream cheese, ricotta makes an excellent, lighter substitute. For those who find feta too salty, goat cheese or Boursin provides a lovely tang. To make this recipe vegan, simply swap the dairy for your favorite plant-based cream cheese and vegan feta alternatives. If fresh basil is unavailable, you can use fresh parsley or dill for a different herbal profile.
Serving Suggestions
The classic way to serve this dip is with warm, toasted slices of baguette or ciabatta. However, it also pairs beautifully with pita chips, crackers, or even fresh vegetable crudités like cucumber and carrots. For a more substantial meal, use the dip as a topping for grilled chicken or stir it through hot pasta for an instant creamy tomato sauce.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have already assembled the dip, the tomatoes may release some moisture over time, so a quick stir before eating is recommended. For best results when meal prepping, keep the whipped cheese and the tomato topping in separate containers until ready to serve. Freezing is not recommended for this recipe, as the texture of the cream cheese and fresh tomatoes will change significantly upon thawing.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 569 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 11 g |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Fat | 54 g |
| Saturated Fat | 24 g |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg |
| Sodium | 813 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Bruschetta Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, feta, lemon zest, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.300 g full-fat cream cheese, 200 g feta cheese, 1 fresh lemon, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, Salt and pepper
- Blend the mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy. Taste the base and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the chopped cherry tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, and sliced fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper and toss to combine.250 g cherry tomatoes, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 garlic clove, 5 g fresh basil, Salt and pepper
- Spread the whipped feta and cream cheese mixture onto the base of a serving plate or shallow bowl. Top with the garlicky basil tomatoes, drizzle with the balsamic glaze, and serve immediately with warm slices of crusty baguette.1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
Notes
FAQ
Can I make this Bruschetta Dip vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this vegan by using non-dairy cream cheese and a plant-based feta alternative. Most large grocery stores carry these options, and they work perfectly with the lemon and garlic flavors.
Is Bruschetta Dip gluten-free?
The dip itself is naturally gluten-free. To keep the entire appetizer gluten-free, ensure you serve it with gluten-free crackers, toasted gluten-free bread, or fresh vegetable slices.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers are incredibly versatile! You can spread the mixture onto a sandwich, use it as a dollop on top of a salad, or toss it with warm pasta to create a rich and flavorful sauce.