Ina Garten Sun-Dried Tomato Dip – Bold, Creamy, and Crowd-Pleasing

If you’re looking for an easy and flavorful appetizer that steals the spotlight, Ina Garten’s Sun-Dried Tomato Dip is the one. Rich, tangy, and packed with Mediterranean flair, this creamy dip comes together quickly and is perfect for entertaining. Serve it with crackers, veggies, or toasted bread, and watch it disappear fast.

What Is Ina Garten Sun-Dried Tomato Dip?

Ina’s dip blends sweet sun-dried tomatoes with rich cream cheese, tangy sour cream, and bold herbs. It’s a no-bake, mix-and-serve recipe that delivers vibrant flavor with minimal effort. This dip is smooth, savory, and ideal for spreading or scooping—making it perfect for parties or anytime snacking.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Accidental Turkey
• Ina Garten Green Herb Dip

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Sun-Dried Tomato Dip

• Bursting with bold flavor – Sun-dried tomatoes add deep, tangy richness
• Quick and easy – Ready in 10 minutes with simple ingredients
• No cooking required – Just blend and chill
• Perfect for entertaining – Elegant yet effortless
• Pairs with many dippers – Crackers, breadsticks, crudités
• Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after chilling
• Versatile and customizable – Add herbs, spices, or cheese

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Sun-Dried Tomato Dip

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, at room temperature
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
• 2 scallions, white and green parts, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Sun-Dried Tomato Dip

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Drain the sun-dried tomatoes well and chop them into small pieces. Slice the scallions and basil.

Step 2: Blend the Base

In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, scallions, basil, salt, and pepper. Pulse just until blended. If desired, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

What to Serve With Ina Garten Sun-Dried Tomato Dip

• Crackers or pita chips – A classic, crunchy dipper
• Sliced baguette or crostini – Toasted for added texture
• Fresh vegetable sticks – Carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers
• Grilled flatbread or naan – Warm and soft contrast
• Breadsticks or pretzels – For a salty crunch
• Stuffed into mini bell peppers – Elegant appetizer idea
• As a sandwich spread – Adds bold flavor to wraps or paninis

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

• Use room temperature cream cheese – Blends smoothly
• Drain tomatoes well – Too much oil can make the dip greasy
• Pulse gently when adding herbs – Keeps texture and color
• Chill before serving – Enhances flavor and consistency
• Double the recipe for parties – It disappears fast
• Taste and adjust seasoning – Some tomatoes may be saltier
• Top with extra chopped tomatoes or herbs – For presentation

Variations of the Recipe

• Add Parmesan cheese – For extra depth
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream – Lightens the dip
• Include roasted red peppers – Adds sweetness and color
• Try goat cheese in place of cream cheese – For a tangy variation
• Add minced garlic – Boosts savory flavor
• Blend in olives or capers – Brings a briny twist
• Make it spicy – With cayenne or hot sauce

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps fresh for 3–4 days
• Stir before serving again – Ensures consistency
• Keep cold until ready to serve – Especially at events
• Do not freeze – Texture becomes watery
• Store without garnish – Add fresh herbs right before serving
• Label with date – Helps with tracking freshness
• Avoid dipping directly – Use a spoon to serve for hygiene

How Do I Reheat or Serve Ina Garten Sun-Dried Tomato Dip?

• Best served chilled or room temperature – No reheating needed
• Let sit out for 15–20 minutes if too cold – Eases spreading
• Stir gently before serving – To smooth out texture
• Top with extra herbs or sun-dried tomato bits – For color
• Serve in a shallow bowl or ramekin – For easy dipping
• Pair with contrasting textures – Like soft bread and crisp veggies
• Use as a spread – It’s great on bagels or sandwiches

Nutritional Value (per 2 tbsp serving)

• Calories: 130
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fiber: 0g

FAQs

What kind of sun-dried tomatoes work best in this dip?

Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes are ideal because they’re soft, flavorful, and blend easily. Just be sure to drain them well before using.

Can I make Ina Garten’s sun-dried tomato dip ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavor actually improves as it sits.

How do I keep the dip from becoming too oily?

Drain the sun-dried tomatoes thoroughly and avoid adding excess oil from the jar. If the dip looks too loose, blend in a bit more cream cheese.

Can I freeze sun-dried tomato dip?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture can separate upon thawing. It’s best served fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Sun-Dried Tomato Dip is a rich, savory appetizer that brings instant flavor to your table. It’s creamy, bold, and incredibly easy to prepare—making it perfect for parties, holidays, or casual snacking. With just a handful of ingredients and no cooking involved, this dip is sure to become a go-to favorite in your entertaining lineup.

Print