Description
This Caprese Dip Appetizer is a delightful and creamy twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. Combining fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and Parmesan, this easy-to-make dip is perfect for parties and gatherings. Topped with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and garnished with fresh basil, it pairs wonderfully with crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for a flavorful and crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Wet Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
Dry & Seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
Serving Suggestions
- Crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Tomatoes: Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cold water and slice each one in half.
- Prepare Mozzarella: Halve the fresh mozzarella balls evenly to ensure easy mixing and consistent texture.
- Chop Basil: Use the chiffonade technique to finely slice the fresh basil leaves into thin strips.
- Mix Balsamic Glaze and Spices: In a small bowl, combine the balsamic glaze with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, stirring well to integrate the flavors.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Place the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Microwave for 15-20 seconds if it needs to be softened further for easier mixing.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Add sour cream and mayonnaise to the cream cheese and begin combining the ingredients gently.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes, preparing the dip base with layered flavors.
- Blend Until Smooth: Using a hand mixer or whisk, blend all the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Incorporate Fresh Ingredients: Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil using a spatula, taking care not to crush the fresh ingredients.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dip and adjust the salt, pepper, or spices to your preference for balanced flavor.
- Transfer to Serving Dish: Spoon the dip into a serving dish, smoothing the top slightly for presentation.
- Drizzle Balsamic Glaze: Evenly drizzle the prepared balsamic glaze mixture over the top of the dip for a glossy, tangy finish.
- Garnish: Add additional fresh basil leaves on top as a bright, fresh garnish.
- Serve: Serve immediately with crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Notes
- Microwaving cream cheese helps achieve a smoother dip texture.
- The chiffonade technique for basil enhances the flavor distribution and appearance.
- Optional red pepper flakes can be adjusted or omitted depending on spice preference.
- Best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days covered tightly.
- Use fresh mozzarella balls to ensure the authentic creamy texture traditional to Caprese dishes.
- The balsamic glaze adds sweetness and acidity complementing the creamy dip perfectly.
