Description
This Caprese Dip Appetizer offers a delightful and creamy twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. Combining fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil with a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and Parmesan, it’s enhanced by a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for entertaining or casual snacking, this no-cook dip brings vibrant flavors and irresistible texture in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Dairy & Creamy Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Condiments
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 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)
To Serve
- Crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes: Wash the cherry tomatoes under cold running water and carefully slice each one in half to release their juicy flavor and create bite-sized pieces.
- Halve the Mozzarella Balls: Slice the fresh mozzarella balls in half, matching the size of the tomato halves for even texture in the dip.
- Chop the Basil: Use the chiffonade technique to finely slice the basil leaves into thin ribbons, which will disperse nicely throughout the dip.
- Mix the Balsamic Seasoning: In a small bowl, stir together the balsamic glaze with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to create a flavorful dressing for the dip.
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Place the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl, and if it isn’t soft enough to mix easily, microwave it for 15-20 seconds until creamy but not melted.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: To the softened cream cheese, add the sour cream and mayonnaise, which provide richness and smoothness to the dip base.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes to give the dip its signature Italian flavor and a hint of heat.
- Blend Until Smooth: Use a hand mixer or whisk to thoroughly blend all the ingredients until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
- Fold in Fresh Ingredients: Gently fold the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella halves, and chopped basil into the creamy dip with a spatula, preserving their texture and freshness.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as needed to balance the flavors perfectly.
- Transfer to Serving Dish: Spoon the finished dip into a serving bowl or dish, spreading it evenly for a beautiful presentation.
- Drizzle Balsamic Glaze: Pour the prepared balsamic glaze mixture over the top of the dip, adding a glossy, tangy finish.
- Garnish: Decorate with additional fresh basil leaves for aroma, color, and authentic Italian flair.
- Serve: Present the dip alongside crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks to scoop and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- This dip is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours; bring to room temperature before serving for best taste and texture.
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality fresh mozzarella and balsamic glaze.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness or omit for a milder version.
- Try serving with an assortment of dippers such as pita chips, breadsticks, or crisp celery sticks.
- If preferred, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lower-fat option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
