Ingredients:

For the Dip:

• Cooking spray
• 3 red beefsteak tomatoes, cored
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup chopped Vidalia onion (from 1 small [5-ounce] onion)
• 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, cut into thin slices, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 cup shredded low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

For Serving:

• Crostini toast

Making It Step by Step:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
   • Slice the cored tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Sprinkle the tomato slices with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt.
   • Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to soften and caramelize slightly. This helps to concentrate their flavor.
   • Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise.
   • Add the chopped Vidalia onion and sliced basil leaves, stirring to mix well.
   • Stir in the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, black pepper, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3. Combine the Dip:
   • Gently fold the roasted tomato slices into the cheese mixture. Be careful not to break up the tomatoes too much; you want some chunks for texture.
   • Transfer the mixture into a 1-quart baking dish and spread it evenly.
   • Sprinkle the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese over the top of the dip.
4. Bake the Dip:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
5. Serve:
   • Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
   • Garnish with additional sliced fresh basil leaves.
   • Serve warm with crostini toast for dipping.

Cooking Tips:

• For a smoother dip, you can chop the tomatoes more finely before folding them into the cheese mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier dip, add more hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• To save time, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, fold in the roasted tomatoes, top with Cheddar, and bake as directed.
• Use a good-quality cream cheese and mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture.

Storage:

• Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the dip in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for about 1-2 minutes.
• Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing due to the dairy content.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 210
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use other types of tomatoes for this recipe? Yes, you can use other varieties like Roma or heirloom tomatoes. Just ensure they are ripe and flavorful.
2. Can I make this dip without mayonnaise? Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a different flavor and slightly tangier taste.
3. Is there a way to make this dip lower in fat? You can use low-fat cream cheese, light mayonnaise, and reduced-fat shredded cheeses to lower the fat content without sacrificing too much flavor.
4. Can I add other ingredients to this dip? Absolutely! You can add chopped cooked bacon, diced bell peppers, or even some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
5. What is the best way to serve this dip? It’s best served warm with crostini toast. However, you can also serve it with crackers, pita chips, or even fresh vegetable sticks for a lighter option.

Conclusion: Tomato and Cheese Dip with Crostini Toast is a versatile and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of roasted tomatoes and a creamy, cheesy mixture creates a dip that’s rich in flavor and satisfying in texture. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a delicious snack, this dip is sure to please. The freshness of the basil, the tang from the hot sauce and Worcestershire, and the depth from the cheeses all come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. With its simple preparation and impressive results, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it with your favorite dippers and share the joy of good food with those around you!