Description
Mediterranean magic meets classic caprese dip in this creamy, herbal sensation. Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil dance together, offering quick comfort that whispers summer’s delightful embrace.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Cheese Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) fresh mozzarella, cubed or torn into pieces
- 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
Produce Ingredients:
- 2 cups (300 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup (15 grams) fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Seasoning and Oil:
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Topping:
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Transform the cream cheese mixture into a creamy base by blending Parmesan and minced garlic until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Select an oven-safe dish and generously spread the cheese mixture across the bottom, creating an even foundation for the dip.
- Carefully distribute halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cubes across the surface, ensuring balanced coverage of the cheese base.
- Enhance the flavor profile by delicately drizzling olive oil over the tomatoes and mozzarella, then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Position the prepared dish into the preheated oven at 375F (190C), allowing the ingredients to meld and transform for approximately 20 minutes.
- Watch for the telltale signs of readiness: bubbling edges and a golden, melted cheese appearance indicating the dip is perfectly cooked.
- Retrieve the hot dish from the oven and immediately garnish with vibrant, freshly chopped basil leaves for a burst of aromatic herbaceousness.
- Optional: Elevate the presentation by elegantly drizzling balsamic glaze across the surface, adding a touch of tangy sophistication.
- Serve immediately alongside crisp toasted baguette slices, rustic crackers, or an assortment of fresh vegetable crudités for dipping.
Notes
- Adjust the cheese blend by using low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version that still maintains creamy texture and flavor.
- Select ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for maximum burst of freshness and vibrant color in the dip.
- Customize the heat intensity by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
- Experiment with herb variations like using fresh oregano or thyme alongside basil to create unique flavor profiles that complement the classic Caprese ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg