Description
8 oz goat cheese, softened
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Crackers or fresh baguette slices, for serving
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with oregano, thyme, salt, and black
pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and slightly charred.
In a medium bowl, mix the softened goat cheese with minced garlic and grated Parmesan until smooth.
Once the tomatoes are roasted, stir them gently into the goat cheese mixture.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is warm and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley and basil.
Serve warm with crackers or fresh baguette slices. Enjoy this creamy, herby dip!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Kcal: 280 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect dip every time.
- Prep & Roast Tomatoes: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). On a parchment-lined baking sheet, toss halved cherry tomatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp each of dried oregano and thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- Combine Cheeses: While tomatoes roast, place 8 oz of softened goat cheese in a medium bowl. Add ½ cup grated Parmesan. Mix vigorously with a fork until completely smooth and well-integrated.
- Fold in Tomatoes: Once tomatoes are out of the oven, let them cool for 2-3 minutes. Gently fold them, along with any juices from the pan, into the cheese mixture. This adds incredible flavor.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the combined mixture to a small, oven-safe baking dish or skillet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, just until the edges are bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
- Garnish & Serve: Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Immediately garnish with 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and ¼ cup fresh basil. Serve while warm.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dip is the star of any gathering. Serve it warm in its baking dish alongside sturdy crackers, sliced baguette, or pita chips. For a vegetable platter, offer endive leaves, bell pepper strips, and cucumber rounds for dipping. It also makes a phenomenal spread for grilled chicken or steak, or can be swirled into hot pasta for a quick, creamy sauce.
How-to Summary
Roast cherry tomatoes with herbs and garlic. Mix softened goat cheese with Parmesan. Fold in roasted tomatoes. Bake until bubbly. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dip (through step 3) up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking, adding 3-5 extra minutes to the bake time.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely. For the roasting step, use 1 tablespoon each of chopped fresh oregano and thyme. The flavor will be more vibrant.
What can I substitute for goat cheese? Full-fat cream cheese is the best substitute for a milder flavor. The texture will be slightly denser but still delicious.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
My dip seems too thick. How can I thin it? Stir in a tablespoon of milk, cream, or the oil from a jar of sun-dried tomatoes before baking. The juices from the roasted tomatoes also help.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold goat cheese: Let it soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes for easy, lump-free mixing.
- Overcrowding the tomatoes: Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they roast and caramelize instead of steaming.
- Overbaking the final dish: Bake just until bubbly. Overbaking can cause the oils to separate, creating a greasy texture.
- Skipping the garnish: The fresh basil and parsley add a crucial pop of color and fresh flavor that balances the rich, creamy cheese.
Conclusion
This roasted tomato and goat cheese dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that masterfully balances creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. With its simple preparation and elegant results, it’s perfect for everything from casual game days to sophisticated dinner parties. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a warm, irresistible centerpiece for your next gathering. Enjoy the delicious results!
