Roasted Tomato & Goat Cheese Dip

There’s nothing I love more than a simple, elegant recipe that comes together with ease and makes everyone at the table do a little happy dance. That’s exactly what this Roasted Tomato & Goat Cheese Dip is. It’s bright, creamy, full of garden-fresh flavor, and it looks beautiful with very little effort — which, let’s be honest, is the dream when you’re entertaining in spring or summer.

I make this dip all the time for brunches, casual gatherings, and those spontaneous backyard dinners when friends just happen to stop by. It feels elevated, but it’s honestly the easiest thing to throw together.

Here’s why I love it so much:

• Roasting the tomatoes brings out this deep, natural sweetness that pairs so beautifully with tangy goat cheese.

• I use lots of fresh basil — it adds a little pop of brightness that just screams warm weather.

• The dip is creamy, rich, and incredibly satisfying — but still feels light enough for a sunny afternoon.

• And the best part? You can make it entirely ahead of time, which means more time enjoying the party and less time in the kitchen.

How I serve it:

Once the dip is blended and smooth (and your kitchen smells amazing), I like to spoon it into a pretty bowl and surround it with toasted pita wedges, crisp crackers, or little bread rounds. I usually set out a big platter and let everyone scoop it up however they like. It disappears fast, so I always make a double batch if I’m feeding a crowd.

If you make it a day in advance and let it hang out in the fridge, the flavors meld even more. That mellow richness is chef’s kiss perfect by the time you’re ready to serve.

This dip is everything I want in a spring or summer appetizer — fresh, flavorful, a little fancy, and totally fuss-free. I hope it finds a permanent spot in your warm-weather rotation like it has in mine.

Let me know if you make it — and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more sunny-season recipes.

Roasted Tomato Goat Cheese Dip  

The sweetness of honey and freshness of basil elevate the roasted tomatoes, creating a balanced, spring-inspired dip that’s perfect with crusty bread or crackers. 

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups mixed color cherry tomatoes, halved 

• 2 tbsp olive oil 

• Salt and pepper to taste 

• 8 oz goat cheese, softened 

• 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened 

• 1 tbsp honey 

• 1 garlic clove, minced 

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped 

• 1 tsp balsamic glaze 

• Crusty bread or crackers for serving 

Instructions: 

• Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 

• Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until soft and slightly charred. Let cool slightly. 

• In a food processor combine goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, and minced garlic.  

• Put goat cheese mixture on a platter and top with the tomato mixture.  

• Drizzle with balsamic glaze and chopped fresh basil  

• Serve warm with bread or crackers. 

Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT.. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekascollective.com or call 203.658.8659.