This Bruschetta Dip is a fresh and tasty mix of tomatoes, basil, and garlic, all blended together to create a yummy party snack. Just scoop it up with some crispy bread, and you’re good to go!
It’s like having all the best parts of bruschetta in one easy dip. I love serving it with crunchy chips or toasted baguette slices for that perfect bite—it’s always a hit at gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This forms the base of the dip, giving it a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace it with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds a slightly sweet creaminess. If you can’t find ricotta, you can use mascarpone for a similar texture or even cream cheese for a stronger flavor.
Tomatoes: I recommend cherry or grape tomatoes for their sweetness. If they’re not available, diced Roma tomatoes work well, too. For a twist, try sundried tomatoes, although they will alter the dip’s texture slightly.
Basil: Fresh basil gives a lovely aroma and taste. If you don’t have fresh basil, a pinch of dried oregano can add some flavor, but it won’t be quite the same.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. If you want a sweeter option, try a bit of honey or omit it if you prefer simplicity.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Bread?
To achieve crispy and golden bread, follow these steps for grilling:
- Heat your grill or grill pan on medium-high. Make sure it’s hot before you start.
- Brush both sides of the bread with olive oil for better crispness and to enhance the flavor.
- Grill for about 1-2 minutes on each side, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning. Look for those lovely grill marks!
- Once done, let the bread cool slightly before serving. This keeps it crispy, perfect for dipping!
These steps help ensure the bread is the ideal texture for scooping up that delicious dip!
Bruschetta Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Dip:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (chiffonade)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for tomatoes)
- For Serving:
- Slices of rustic Italian bread or baguette
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bruschetta Dip will take you about 15 minutes of preparation and grilling time. It’s quick and perfect for parties, making it easy to whip up something tasty on short notice!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cut your rustic Italian bread or baguette into slices, about 1-inch thick. Lightly brush both sides of the bread slices with extra virgin olive oil. Once your grill is ready, grill the bread slices until they are toasted and have nice grill marks, which should take about 1-2 minutes per side. When they’re done, set them aside.
2. Mix the Cheese:
In a medium bowl, combine your softened cream cheese and ricotta cheese. Using a fork or hand mixer, mix them together until they are smooth and creamy. This will create the base of your delicious dip. Once it’s well combined, spread the cheese mixture evenly in a shallow serving bowl or dish.
3. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In a separate bowl, add the diced cherry or grape tomatoes, minced garlic, and chiffonade basil leaves. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and balsamic vinegar if you’re using it. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine all those fresh flavors.
4. Assemble the Dip:
Spoon the fresh tomato mixture over the cheese spread in the serving bowl. Drizzle a little more extra virgin olive oil on top for added flavor, and garnish with additional fresh basil strips for a beautiful presentation.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Bruschetta Dip is now ready to serve! Present it with the grilled bread slices for dipping. This delicious dip is perfect for sharing at gatherings, picnics, or as a simple yet impressive appetizer at home. Enjoy!
Whether it’s a party or just a cozy night in, this creamy Bruschetta Dip is always a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese or Ricotta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat options will work just fine, although the dip might be slightly less creamy. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning, as low-fat versions can sometimes be less flavorful.
Can This Dip Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese base a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just wait to add the tomato mixture until you’re ready to serve to keep the tomatoes fresh and juicy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again, and you can serve it with fresh bread or veggies!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Dip?
Certainly! Feel free to mix in some finely chopped red onion, olives, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to balance the added ingredients!
