Rita'S Dried Tomato Dip
A flavorful dried tomato dip with garlic and Parmesan, perfect for spreading on crackers or baguettes, ideal for appetizers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steep dried tomatoes in warm water for 1/2 to 1 hour until soft, then drain.
- In a food processor, mince or pulse the garlic cloves.
- Add the soaked tomatoes and Parmesan cheese to the food processor and blend until combined.
- Slowly add olive oil while processing until the desired consistency is reached.
- Make the dip the night before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve on crackers, toasted baguettes, or other accompaniments.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you have fresh tomatoes, you can use them instead; just roast them first to intensify their flavor. Ensure the olive oil is high quality for the best taste. This dip is versatile, so don't hesitate to experiment with adding herbs or spices that you enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs beautifully with crackers, toasted baguettes, or fresh veggie sticks. It also complements Mediterranean recipes like a Vegetable And Bread Salad(Fattoush) or grilled meats. For a lovely presentation, serve it in a bowl drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, alongside an assortment of dippers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits. If the dip thickens too much after chilling, simply stir in a bit more olive oil or warm water until you reach the desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rita'S Dried Tomato Dip contains roughly 175 calories, with 4g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 690mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of dried tomatoes for this dip?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to roast them first to enhance their flavor. For this recipe, about 2 cups of roasted fresh tomatoes should work well. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly, and you may need to adjust the amount of olive oil accordingly.
How do I make this dip vegan?
To make this dip vegan, simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Additionally, ensure that the olive oil used is certified vegan, though most are. This will allow you to enjoy a delicious dairy-free version without sacrificing taste.
Can I freeze this dip?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dip for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. You may need to remix it and adjust the consistency with a bit of olive oil or water after thawing, as freezing can change the texture slightly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).