Chunky Italian Tomato Dip
Bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this Chunky Italian Tomato Dip is a simple yet elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with vibrant ripe tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, this dip gets a subtle tang from balsamic vinegar and a touch of heat from red chili flakes. Fresh basil adds an aromatic herbaceous note, while a generous sprinkle of Parmesan takes it to the next level. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick and easy dip retains a chunky texture that pairs beautifully with crusty bread, crackers, or crisp veggies. Serve it warm or at room temperature for a crowd-pleasing, rustic Italian starter.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized ripe tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 8 leaves fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 teaspoons red chili flakes
- 0.5 teaspoons sea salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Wash and core the tomatoes, then dice them into small, chunky pieces. Set aside.
2. Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
3. Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, sea salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Cook the mixture for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften but still maintain their chunky texture.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
7. Stack the basil leaves, roll them into a tight cylinder, and slice into thin ribbons (a technique called chiffonade). Stir the basil into the tomato mixture.
8. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top for an added burst of flavor.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature with your choice of crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
393 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 31.0 g | 40% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.5 g | 28% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 9 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 1258 mg | 55% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 24.7 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.6 g | 24% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.3 g | ||
| Protein | 8.4 g | 17% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 166 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 2.2 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 1255 mg | 27% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
