When it comes to summer entertaining, few things rival the bright, fresh flavors of bruschetta.
This dip takes the classic Italian favorite—ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil—and transforms it into a creamy, scoopable appetizer that’s perfect for sharing.
It’s elegant enough for a dinner party yet casual enough for game night.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🌿 Fresh, bright, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor
- 🧀 Creamy base balanced with tangy, salty feta and smooth cream cheese
- ⏱ Quick, no-cook recipe—ready in just 20 minutes
- 🥖 Perfect for pairing with crackers, pita, or toasted bread
- 👌 Easily customizable with vegan or lighter substitutions
- 🎉 Crowd-pleasing appetizer that looks as good as it tastes
Ingredients
For the Bruschetta
- 4 Roma tomatoes, diced (seeds removed if preferred)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1–2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar (to taste)
- Salt, to taste
For the Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
For Garnishing
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Red pepper flakes
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bruschetta
- Dice Roma tomatoes into small cubes and place in a medium bowl.
- Add basil, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Toss gently.
- Let mixture marinate for 10 minutes to release juices and absorb flavors.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a food processor, blend feta, cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Process until smooth and creamy, scraping sides as needed.
- Taste and season with salt if needed.
3. Assemble the Dip
- Spread the cheese mixture into a shallow serving dish.
- Spoon the bruschetta mixture evenly on top.
- Garnish with basil, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan.
Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t skip marinating the tomatoes—this step develops deeper flavor.
- Use firm Roma tomatoes to prevent excess wateriness.
- If using feta, season salt sparingly since it’s already salty.
- For smoother blending, soften cream cheese before mixing.
Substitutions & Variations
- Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese, ricotta, or dairy-free alternatives.
- Tomatoes: Try cherry or heirloom tomatoes for a sweeter/tangier twist.
- Herbs: Add oregano, thyme, or parsley for extra depth.
- Vegan: Use cashew cream, plant-based yogurt, or dairy-free cheese.
What to Serve With It
- Crostini or toasted baguette slices
- Pita chips, naan, or crackers
- Fresh veggies like cucumber, bell peppers, or carrot sticks
- Mediterranean spread with hummus, tzatziki, and olives
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Best enjoyed fresh, as tomatoes release juices over time.
Nutrition & Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Cuisine: Mediterranean | Vegetarian
Conclusion
This Bruschetta Dip delivers all the vibrant flavors of classic bruschetta in a creamy, crowd-friendly format. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, a holiday party, or a casual get-together, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With minimal prep and no cooking required, it’s a refreshing and flavorful appetizer you’ll return to again and again.
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