Looking for a fresh and flavorful appetizer that’s easy to make? This Easy Caprese Dip is the perfect choice. Inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad, this dip brings together juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with tangy balsamic glaze. It’s the ideal dish for summer parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
Not only is this dip quick to assemble, but it also captures all the bright and vibrant flavors that make Caprese so beloved. It’s a great way to showcase the taste of fresh ingredients, and the combination of creamy cheese, ripe tomatoes, and fresh herbs is always a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it requires minimal effort, making it an easy go-to recipe when you’re short on time but want to impress your guests.
Serve this dip with crunchy crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables for the ultimate appetizer. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can serve it with some crisp romaine lettuce for a healthier snack. Whether you’re hosting a large get-together or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dip will be a hit!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this dip is ready in less than 10 minutes.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and balsamic glaze delivers a fresh burst of flavor in every bite.
- Healthy and Light: Using fresh, whole ingredients, this dip is a great option for a healthier appetizer.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck, this Caprese dip is always a hit. It’s a simple yet delicious way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. You can add more basil for extra freshness or sprinkle in some garlic for a bolder flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipment Used
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Serving dish
Directions & Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes and slice the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the fresh basil into small, thin strips.
- Assemble the Dip:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, mozzarella pieces, and chopped basil. Stir gently to mix everything together.
- Add Flavor:
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the mixture and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Transfer the dip to a serving dish and garnish with extra basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers, such as crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Add Garlic: Add a clove of minced garlic to enhance the flavor of the dip.
- Spicy Kick: For some heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños.
- Add Avocado: For a creamy twist, mix in diced avocado for extra richness and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare this dip in advance, but for the freshest taste, we recommend assembling it just before serving to preserve the tomatoes’ texture. The balsamic glaze can be drizzled right before serving to prevent it from soaking into the tomatoes.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can substitute with bocconcini, burrata, or even a soft goat cheese for a different twist.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- For the best results, use ripe, in-season tomatoes to ensure maximum flavor.
- If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can use regular balsamic vinegar, but a drizzle of honey can help mimic the glaze’s sweetness.
- If you prefer a smoother dip, you can blend the ingredients into a creamy consistency using a food processor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crispy crostini or toasted baguette slices for a crunchy base.
- Pair it with a light salad or fresh vegetable platter for a healthy snack.
- Add some charcuterie for a more substantial appetizer spread.
Easy Caprese Dip Recipe
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Serving dish
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes and slice the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the fresh basil into small, thin strips.
- Assemble the Dip:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, mozzarella pieces, and chopped basil. Stir gently to mix everything together.
- Add Flavor:
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the mixture and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Transfer the dip to a serving dish and garnish with extra basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers, such as crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
Pair it with a light salad or fresh vegetable platter for a healthy snack.
Add some charcuterie for a more substantial appetizer spread.