This Bruschetta Dip is a tasty mix of fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic, all tossed together with a splash of olive oil. It’s perfect for parties or a cozy snack!
Pair it with crunchy bread or crackers, and your friends will be asking for the recipe. Honestly, I can’t get enough of it! It’s so simple, yet so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This gives the dip a creamy base. If you want a lighter option, try cottage cheese or Greek yogurt. Both will mimic the texture well!
Tomatoes: I love using vine-ripened or Roma tomatoes for their juiciness, but cherry tomatoes are great too! If fresh tomatoes are scarce, consider sun-dried tomatoes for a different, yet tasty flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that classic bruschetta taste. Dried basil can work in a pinch, but the flavor differs. If you’re not a basil fan, try fresh parsley or oregano.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a sweet tang. If you don’t have it, a splash of lemon juice or red wine vinegar can brighten the dish. Just don’t skip the acidity!
Baguette: For crunch, a French baguette or ciabatta is perfect. If gluten-free or whole grain is your thing, use gluten-free bread or whole grain pita chips instead.
How Do I Get the Bread Just Right for Dipping?
The bread is a big part of this dip! Here’s how to grill it to perfection:
- Preheat your grill or a grill pan on medium-high heat. This ensures good grill marks.
- Slice the baguette about 1/2 inch thick. This thickness holds up without getting soggy.
- Brush each side lightly with olive oil. It helps with that beautiful golden color and crispiness.
- Grill each slice for 1-2 minutes per side. Watch them closely as they can burn quickly!
For extra flavor, you can also rub each slice with a clove of garlic after grilling. This gives it a nice kick.
How to Make Bruschetta Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly diced tomatoes (preferably Roma or cherry tomatoes)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 1-2 tsp balsamic glaze or reduction
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 baguette or Italian bread, sliced
- Olive oil (for brushing bread)
- Optional: cherry tomatoes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bruschetta Dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes slicing and mixing the ingredients and grilling the bread. It’s quick to make, and perfect for your next gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Bread:
Begin by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, slice the baguette into 1/2-inch slices. Lightly brush each side of the slices with olive oil. Once the grill is ready, place the bread slices on it and grill for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until you see nice char marks and the bread is crispy. Set the grilled bread aside on a plate.
2. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and thinly sliced basil. Add in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, along with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix everything together, then let it sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to combine beautifully.
3. Assemble the Dip:
In a serving bowl or shallow dish, spread the ricotta cheese evenly across the bottom. Then, spoon the fresh tomato and basil mixture on top, spreading it out evenly. This creates a lovely, layered look!
4. Finish and Serve:
Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top of the dip for a touch of sweetness and a tangy contrast. If you’d like, garnish with extra basil and add some fresh cherry tomatoes around the dip for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with the grilled baguette slices on the side for dipping. Enjoy this delightful and fresh Bruschetta Dip!
Can I Use Different Cheese for This Dip?
Absolutely! While ricotta offers a creamy texture, you can use cream cheese for a richer taste or even goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Just remember to soften the cheese before mixing to ensure it’s easy to spread.
Can I Make This Dip in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the tomato mixture a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Just wait to assemble the dip with the ricotta and balsamic glaze until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the texture of the bread will become soft. It’s best to enjoy them fresh, but you can make a fresh batch of grilled bread when you’re ready to enjoy the dip again!
What Can I Serve with This Dip Besides Bread?
This Bruschetta Dip pairs well with an array of accompaniments! Consider offering veggie sticks like cucumbers, bell peppers, or celery for dipping. You can also serve it with pita chips or even baked tortilla chips for a crunchy twist!