Go Back
Fresh tomato basil dip with olive oil drizzle served with toasted baguette slices.

Tomato Basil Party Dip

This fresh tomato-basil dip packs sweet tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a bright splash of acidity for a crowd-pleasing bowl that disappears fast at parties and weeknight dinners alike.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Rest Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 90
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base
  • 5 Roma tomatoes, seeded if very juicy, finely diced Small dice for less water and better texture
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Adds body and sheen
  • 1–2 cloves garlic, minced Minced to release flavor without overpowering
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, thinly sliced Chiffonade for a fragrant finish
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, to taste, for brightness
  • fine sea salt and black pepper To season properly at the end
Optional add-ins
  • 2 tbsp red onion, finely diced
  • 1 tbsp chives, thinly sliced
  • 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes For gentle heat
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, finely diced For crunch

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Prep tomatoes: seed if very juicy, then finely dice so the dip scoops cleanly.
  2. Stir in garlic, basil, olive oil, and balsamic until glossy and well combined.
  3. Season with salt and black pepper, taste, and adjust acidity with a touch more balsamic or lemon if needed.
  4. Let sit 10 minutes so the flavors mingle; a short rest deepens flavor without cooking.

Notes

Serve with toasted baguette or pita chips; spoon alongside grilled chicken or fish; or layer over whipped ricotta or cottage cheese for a creamy contrast.
Small-dice everything so each scoop gets balanced flavor. Drain excess liquid if tomatoes are very juicy, or add a spoon of olive oil to bring it back together. Add basil just before serving to keep it vibrant and aromatic.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 2 days. Stir and refresh with a pinch of salt and fresh basil before serving again. Avoid freezing; fresh tomatoes lose texture after thawing.
Nutrition note: Tomatoes bring lycopene and vitamin C, olive oil adds heart-friendly fats, and the bowl stays light yet satisfying next to crunchy toasts.