Description
This Caprese Dip Appetizer is a fresh and vibrant twist on the classic Italian salad, combining juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, fragrant basil, and a flavorful blend of garlic, olive oil, and balsamic glaze. Easy to assemble and perfect for entertaining, this dip is served chilled with crusty bread or crackers for a crowd-pleasing starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pint (2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, small balls (bocconcini) or ciliegine, halved if large
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or balsamic reduction)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Crusty bread, baguette slices, or crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes. Halve each tomato and place them in a medium-sized mixing bowl to start building the base of your dip.
- Add the Mozzarella: Drain the mozzarella balls from their liquid. If using larger bocconcini, halve or quarter them to make bite-sized pieces. Add the mozzarella to the bowl with the tomatoes, ensuring an even distribution.
- Infuse with Garlic and Herbs: Mince the garlic cloves finely to evenly release their flavor. Add the minced garlic to the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Chop the fresh basil leaves and add them along with the dried oregano and red pepper flakes, if using, to enhance the herbaceous aroma and a subtle spicy kick.
- Dress with Olive Oil and Vinegar: Pour the extra virgin olive oil over the mixture to add richness and smooth texture. Add the red wine vinegar to provide a balanced tang that brightens the flavors.
- Season Generously: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir gently and taste the mixture to adjust seasoning, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- Gently Combine: Using a spoon or spatula, fold all ingredients together carefully, avoiding mashing the tomatoes or mozzarella to maintain their texture and presentation.
- Marinate for Flavor: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. For best results, marinate for 1-2 hours.
- Prepare Your Serving Dish: Select a shallow serving dish or bowl that nicely displays the colorful dip.
- Transfer the Dip: Remove the dip from the refrigerator and give it a gentle stir to redistribute the flavors. Transfer the mixture to your prepared serving dish.
- Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction over the top to add a sweet and tangy finishing touch.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for an attractive, fresh look.
- Serve with Accompaniments: Serve the Caprese dip immediately with crusty bread, baguette slices, or crackers to scoop and enjoy.
- Enjoy! Dig in and savor this bright and flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings or casual snacking.
Notes
- To make the balsamic glaze, simmer balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until thickened to a syrup consistency.
- You can prepare this dip a few hours in advance; just keep it refrigerated and add the balsamic glaze before serving.
- For a spicy variant, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- If fresh basil is unavailable, substitute with fresh oregano or parsley for a different herbal note.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; stir gently before serving again.
