Description
This Caprese Dip is a fresh and delicious appetizer inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad. Featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, aromatic basil, and a flavorful mix of garlic, olive oil, and balsamic glaze, this easy no-cook recipe is perfect for gatherings, parties, or a simple snack. Serve it with crusty bread or crackers for a crowd-pleasing dish that is ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip 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
- 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
For Serving
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or balsamic reduction)
- Crusty bread, baguette slices, or crackers
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes. Halve each tomato and place them in a medium-sized mixing bowl to begin the base of your dip.
- Add the Mozzarella: Drain the mozzarella balls from their liquid. If they are larger bocconcini, halve or quarter them as needed, then add to the tomatoes in the bowl.
- Infuse with Garlic and Herbs: Finely mince the garlic cloves. Chop the fresh basil leaves. Add the garlic, chopped basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the tomato and mozzarella mixture.
- Dress with Olive Oil and Vinegar: Pour the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar over the mixture, ensuring everything is well-coated and flavorful.
- Season Generously: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary to balance all flavors.
- Gently Combine: Use a spoon or spatula to gently mix all ingredients together, taking care not to crush the tomatoes or mozzarella balls.
- Marinate for Flavor: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results 1-2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prepare Your Serving Dish: Select a shallow serving dish or bowl suitable for appetizers.
- Transfer the Dip: Remove the dip from the refrigerator and gently stir before transferring it to the serving dish.
- Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Evenly drizzle balsamic glaze over the dip, adding a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Garnish (Optional): Optionally garnish with a few extra fresh basil leaves for color and aroma.
- Serve with Accompaniments: Serve immediately alongside crusty bread, baguette slices, or your favorite crackers.
- Enjoy! Delight in this fresh and flavorful Caprese dip as an easy and impressive appetizer.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow the dip to marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving.
- If you prefer a spicier dip, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute fresh mozzarella with burrata for an even creamier texture.
- Balsamic glaze can be homemade by reducing balsamic vinegar, or store-bought versions work well too.
- Make sure tomatoes are well dried to avoid excess liquid in the dip.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
