Easy Caprese Dip
This Easy Caprese Dip features a creamy base topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, finished with a balsamic glaze. It's a perfect appetizer for any gathering.
Equipment
- medium bowl
- shallow serving dish or pie plate
Ingredients
Creamy Base
- 1 8-ounce block cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise full-fat for richness, or light for a healthier option
- 1 clove garlic minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings & Garnish
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes halved or quartered
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella small balls (pearls) or diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze store-bought or homemade
For Serving
- Crackers, baguette slices, or pita chips for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, salt, and pepper; mix until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly onto the bottom of a shallow serving dish or pie plate.
- Arrange the halved or quartered cherry tomatoes over the cream cheese mixture, distributing them evenly.
- Scatter the fresh mozzarella pearls or diced mozzarella over the tomatoes.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil generously over the layered dip.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the entire dip just before serving and serve immediately with your favorite dippers.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. You can prepare the base and chop ingredients ahead of time, assembling just before serving. Personalize with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a dash of oregano for an herbaceous twist.