Description
A vibrant and flavorful appetizer featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, and a creamy cheese base that delights taste buds and sparks conversation.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 Roma tomatoes, seeded and finely diced (about 1½–2 cups)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for the tomato topping)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for the tomato topping)
- 1–2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- 8 oz feta cheese block, crumbled (about 2 cups)
- ½ block cream cheese (4 oz), softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for the cheese mixture)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Dice the Roma tomatoes and place them in a medium bowl. Add chopped basil, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar. Season with salt.
- Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes to macerate.
- In a food processor or large bowl, combine crumbled feta, cream cheese, and sour cream. Add minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Pulse or beat until smooth but slightly textured.
- Spread the cheese mixture in an even layer on a serving dish.
- Spoon the marinated tomato-basil mixture over the top.
- Garnish with chopped basil, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan if using.
- Optional: For a warm dip, broil for 1–2 minutes until warm and slightly browned.
Notes
For best results, let the dip rest for 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Adjust seasonings to taste based on freshness and saltiness of the ingredients used.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 195
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg