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This crowd-pleasing tomato dip has earned a “famous” status at countless parties and gatherings. Made with just 5 simple ingredients, this quick appetizer transforms fire-roasted tomatoes and almonds into a uniquely delicious dip that’s perfect with bread, crackers, or vegetables.
This tomato dip has become “famous” in our circles because it’s so quick to put together (5 minutes!), and the flavor is absolutely irresistible!
Our friends have started making often for parties and baby showers. We’ve served it so often that when we go to parties, people ask, “Are you bringing the tomato dip?” That’s when we knew it was a winner. It’s so tasty that we included a version in our first cookbook!
Why this recipe works
The combination of roasted almonds and fire-roasted tomatoes creates an unexpectedly rich and complex flavor. The almonds provide a creamy base while the tomatoes add a subtle smokiness. Best of all, this vegan dip recipe comes together in just 5 minutes in your food processor. What makes it special?
- Quick 5-minute prep time
- Only 5 simple ingredients
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free
- Perfect make-ahead appetizer
- Versatile serving options
- Crowd-pleasing flavor that’s unique and memorable
Pro tips for success
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making this tomato dip recipe:
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for the best flavor. They really do make a difference! Look for them next to the standard canned tomatoes.
- Process the almonds until finely ground before adding other ingredients.
- Stream in the olive oil slowly while processing.
- Season to taste – some brands of tomatoes need more salt than others.
- Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
Ways to serve tomato dip
Here are a few ways Alex and I like to serve this dip:
- With grilled bread or toasted bread
- As a spread for crostini
- With a veggie tray
- As a sandwich spread
- As a dip for pita chips or homemade crackers
Dietary notes
This tomato dip recipe is vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free.
Frequently asked questions
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let come to room temperature before serving.
Yes! This dip actually improves after a few hours as the flavors meld. Make it up to 24 hours in advance.
While regular canned tomatoes will work, fire-roasted tomatoes add a crucial smoky depth. We highly recommend using them for the best flavor.
5-Minute “Famous” Tomato Dip
This crowd-pleasing tomato dip has earned a “famous” status at countless parties and gatherings. Made with just 5 simple ingredients, this quick appetizer transforms fire-roasted tomatoes and almonds into a uniquely delicious dip that’s perfect with bread, crackers, or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the famous tomato dip
- ¾ cup roasted almonds
- 15-ounce can crushed fire roasted tomatoes
- 1 garlic clove
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup olive oil
For the grilled bread
- 1 baguette or artisan loaf (like our artisan Dutch oven bread)
- Olive oil
Instructions
- In the bowl of a food processor, combine the roasted almonds, fire roasted tomatoes, garlic, and kosher salt. Process until the nuts are finely ground.
- Scrape down the bowl. With the processor running, add the olive oil in a steady stream until a thick texture forms. (Store any leftovers refrigerated for 1 week.)
- For the grilled bread: Slice the baguette into slices. Brush olive oil onto each side of the bread. In a grill pan or on a grill, toast each bread slice over medium high heat until browned, a few minutes per side.
More party appetizers
This tomato dip is great for parties; here are a few more party appetizers and dip recipes:
True this on toss salad and it was wonderful. Strangely similar for me to Ginger Dressing!
Just made this dip and it is DELICIOUS!!! So easy, so good. This is an instant classic for sure
In Adealide South Australia you can only get tin of fire roasted tin tomatoes on line . Can I substitute with normal tin tomatoes?
Yes, but you might need a little sugar to offset the acidity.
Unfortunately this recipe was a big nope for everyone in our family. The gritty texture of the almonds with the tomatoes was off putting. I recommend beans instead of almonds. It makes for a smoother dip. Also, more garlic.
I love this dip but the bread has lots of calories. I was wondering what else you could suggest besides bread to dip in it.
Celery is great or we like the nut-based gluten free crackers.
I made this today and it appears to be a little runnier than what yours is. I used fired roasted diced tomatoes in lieu of crushed. Could that be the reason?
Thank you!
Hi! Yes, the diced tomatoes have a bit more liquid in them.
Can this be made in advance?
Sure! You made need to loosen it with a bit of water if it thickens up.
I made this dip the other night for a group of friends, and it was a huge hit! I made one batch with a bit of Feta added, and a second batch that left out the garlic and Feta but added balsamic vinegar and smoked paprika. Both versions were delicious, and it was very quick and easy to make. Thanks for sharing this recipe!
Just made this and it smells great! When I serve this, do I keep it cool or heat it up? Both sound delicious.
Hi! We usually serve it at room temperature, but I bet it’d be delicious warm!
Oh man, this looks delicious. I’m having some friends over this weekend and think I’ll whip some up for them. Just to be sure: do you add the liquid from the tomato can as well? Thanks!
Yes, you do include the liquid. Hope you enjoy!
This dip is super unique, and super awesome! Love it!
Almonds and tomatoes? never heard of that combo! but it sounds really good!!
Oh yes I would agree with you about enjoyment coming with age. My kids are young adults(23,20 and 19) and at 42, almost 43 years old I am ready to start living a bit more free and doing things that bring a smile to my face. Which is usually the small things. I lived a lot of my life for my husband and kids, no regrets ever, I do love them so, but now I know my kids will fly on their own soon. My husband and I are best friends and we laugh at the silliest of things. It is a good life!!!!
oh this looks and sounds amazing!
Romesco is one of my favourite dips ever – perfect with grilled leeks, seafood, or just on bread as in your gorgeous photos. Another gorgeous recipe post, thanks!
Love this post :) I’m definitely learning how to stop and enjoy the moment more. Previously, I would look back on moments and think of how great they were. But I was sad that I did not appreciate them at the time. Lately, I’ve been able to sit back during an event and realize the significance the moment has and I feel grateful. PS. this dip looks fantastic! I’m going to make it for my birthday picnic next week :)
I think simple things get better as you age. Like cheese wine and cured meats.
However this is such a simple recipe I would love to try this with a jar of char grilled peppers
This sounds really great for long summer afternoon snacking! Now all I need is a food processor so I can actually make it. Maybe it’s finally time to buckle down and get one. :)
Sounds incredible! And yes, enjoyment of the simple things really seems to be much easier to come by with age. I’ll take it ;)
‘the less entitled I feel to good things, the more good things surprise me.’ – such a good sentence. You’ve given me some food for thought tonight.
And, this looks so good! xo
I am all over grilled bread these days and the dip sounds so good! I love the combo of tomato and almonds!