Caprese Dip Appetizer: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Italian Favorite Recipe

Introduction

This Caprese Dip appetizer offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian salad. Creamy, tangy, and bursting with fresh flavors, it’s perfect for gatherings or a casual snack. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, it brings the best of Caprese in a shareable form.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash the cherry tomatoes under cold water and slice them in half.
2. Step 2: Halve the fresh mozzarella balls.
3. Step 3: Chop the fresh basil leaves using the chiffonade technique.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the balsamic glaze, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. If needed, microwave for 15-20 seconds to soften.
6. Step 6: Add the sour cream and mayonnaise to the bowl.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
8. Step 8: Blend all ingredients together using a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy.
9. Step 9: Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil into the creamy mixture using a spatula.
10. Step 10: Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary.
11. Step 11: Transfer the dip into a serving dish.
12. Step 12: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top of the dip.
13. Step 13: Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves.
14. Step 14: Serve with crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother texture, ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.
• Substitute fresh mozzarella with burrata for an extra creamy touch.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy note.
• Use gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks to keep the appetizer gluten-free.
• For a spicy kick, increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again. This dip is best served chilled, but you can let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this Caprese Dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Add fresh basil garnish and drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving to keep flavors vibrant.

What can I serve with Caprese Dip?

This dip pairs well with a variety of dippers such as crunchy crackers, sliced baguette, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks like cucumber, celery, and bell peppers.

Caprese Dip Appetizer: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Italian Favorite Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.6 from 482 reviews

This Caprese Dip appetizer offers a delicious twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad, combining creamy cheeses, fresh cherry tomatoes, and basil with a tangy balsamic glaze to create a smooth, flavorful dip perfect for parties and gatherings.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: About 12 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the tomatoes: Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cold water and slice them in half to ensure freshness and even bite-sized pieces in the dip.
2. Halve mozzarella balls: Cut the fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) in half to match the size of the tomatoes, making the dip balanced and easy to scoop.
3. Chop basil: Use the chiffonade technique to finely slice the fresh basil leaves, enhancing the dip with a burst of fresh herb flavor.
4. Mix balsamic glaze seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the balsamic glaze with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to create a tangy seasoning drizzle.
5. Soften cream cheese: Place the softened cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. If it’s too firm, microwave for 15-20 seconds to soften it further for smooth mixing.
6. Add creamy bases: Incorporate sour cream and mayonnaise into the cream cheese, which will add richness and creaminess to the dip.
7. Add cheese and seasoning: Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes to infuse flavor and subtle spice.
8. Blend mixture: Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend all creamy ingredients until smooth and creamy, ensuring an even texture throughout the dip.
9. Fold in fresh ingredients: Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil using a spatula, being careful to keep the fresh ingredients intact for texture.
10. Adjust seasoning: Taste the dip and add more salt, pepper, or seasoning if needed to balance the flavors perfectly.
11. Transfer to serving dish: Spoon the dip into your preferred serving bowl or dish, preparing it for presentation.
12. Drizzle balsamic glaze: Pour the balsamic glaze mixture evenly over the top of the dip, adding a flavorful and visually appealing touch.
13. Garnish: Decorate the dip with additional fresh basil leaves to enhance appearance and aroma.
14. Serve: Offer the dip alongside crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for dipping, perfect for parties or casual snacking.

Notes

• To soften cream cheese quickly, microwave in short bursts—avoid overheating to keep the texture smooth.
• If you prefer a less tangy dip, reduce the amount of balsamic glaze or drizzle it lightly only when serving.
• Red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted for a milder flavor or increased for extra heat.
• Fresh mozzarella can be substituted with burrata for a creamier texture.
• Use gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks for a gluten-free appetizer option.
• For best flavor, prepare the dip a few hours ahead and refrigerate to let flavors meld.

Keywords: Caprese dip, Italian appetizer, creamy dip, cherry tomato dip, mozzarella dip, party appetizer, easy dip recipe