A simple tomato and cheese appetizer that is loaded with flavor in every bite! This bite-sized starter is packed with flavor thanks to its irresistible garlic-and-cheese topping. If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful appetizer, this is a must-try!

A plate of fresh tomatoes, topped with a cheesy garlic spread.

This snack is inspired by our zucchini tomato bites, which we love! It’s like the healthier, gluten-free version!

The Perfect Bite-Size Appetizer

  • Healthy snack. This appetizer is a lighter option to balance heavier party dishes, and it’s naturally gluten-free! 
  • Quick to make. Tomato and cheese appetizers are the perfect solution when you need something delicious in minutes—plus, you probably already have the ingredients on hand! 
  • Delicious. Simple ingredients come together for a delightful appetizer that everyone will love! Serve with a variety of easy appetizers that everyone will love!

Ingredients for Tomato and Cheese Appetizer

This recipe uses the simplest ingredients yet makes a delicious appetizer:

  • Tomatoes – We love heirloom tomatoes for this recipe to allow for a beautiful presentation. However, you can use your favorite tomato with great results.
  • Cheese filling – The filling is made with cheese, garlic cloves, mayo, salt, and pepper.
  • Fresh herbs – We love a garnish of fresh dill to tie everything together. 

See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and quantities.

Tomato & Cheese Appetizer Variations

  • Add protein: Take these tomato bites to the next level by topping them with crispy bacon or prosciutto!
  • Crostini: Make these appetizers into mini sandwiches by assembling on crispy crostini!
  • Fresh herbs: Top the appetizer with fresh basil leaves for a stunning presentation and a kick of fresh flavor. 
  • Drizzle: Finish these tomatoes off with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar glaze for a delightful flavor combination.

How to Make a Tomato and Cheese Appetizer 

It doesn’t get easier than this appetizer recipe: 

A glass bowl with the tomato spread mixture.
  1. Make a spread. In a small bowl, mix the spread ingredients.
A casserole dish with the sliced tomatoes laid out.

2. Prep tomatoes. Slice the tomatoes into thick slices. If using a small tomato, like a cherry tomato, you can scoop out the center to fill with the cheese and mayo mixture.

All of the tomato slices topped with the cheesy garlic mixture.

3. Assemble. Add a generous spoonful of cheese spread to each tomato slice. Top with fresh dill, and serve!

Expert Tip: 

  • Make the spread in advance. Make the prep time extra quick and easy by having the spread ready to go. You can build these bites in just 5 minutes!
Thick tomato slices topped with a creamy garlic and cheese spread.

Store & Reheat 

  • Storage. Keep leftovers stored tightly in the fridge for up to 2 days. 
  • Freeze. We don’t recommend freezing these tomato appetizers. 

More Appetizer Recipes

If you enjoyed this tomato and cheese recipe, be sure to try our other easy-to-make appetizer recipes; here are some of our favorites:

If you tried this tomato and cheese appetizer recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below – we appreciate it!

Tomato and Cheese Appetizer

A plate of fresh tomatoes, topped with a cheesy garlic spread.
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5 from 2 votes
A classic tomato and cheese appetizer that's sure to be a fan-favorite at your next holiday spread. Juicy tomatoes topped with a flavorful garlic-and-cheese spread make an addictive snack you can whip up in just 5 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 9 slices

Ingredients

  • 3 medium tomatoes
  • cup shredded cheese note
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 3 Tbsp mayo
  • Pinch salt pepper
  • Dill garnish

Instructions

  • Slice tomatoes into thick slices.
  • In a bowl, combine the cheese, garlic, mayo, salt, and pepper.
  • Add a generous portion of the cheese and mayo mixture on each slice.
  • Garnish with dill.
  • Serve and enjoy, friends.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. 
  • Top the appetizer with fresh basil or a balsamic glaze for an elevated presentation.
  • Cheese: Use your favorite cheese: a four cheese blend, Mexican, or Mozzarella will all work.

Nutrition

52kcal Calories2g Carbs1g Protein5g Fat1g Saturated Fat2g Polyunsaturated Fat1g Monounsaturated Fat0.01g Trans Fat5mg Cholesterol58mg Sodium103mg Potassium0.5g Fiber1g Sugar373IU Vitamin A6mg Vitamin C26mg Calcium0.1mg Iron
Nutrition Facts
Tomato and Cheese Appetizer
Amount Per Serving
Calories 52 Calories from Fat 45
% Daily Value*
Fat 5g8%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Trans Fat 0.01g
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g
Monounsaturated Fat 1g
Cholesterol 5mg2%
Sodium 58mg3%
Potassium 103mg3%
Carbohydrates 2g1%
Fiber 0.5g2%
Sugar 1g1%
Protein 1g2%
Vitamin A 373IU7%
Vitamin C 6mg7%
Calcium 26mg3%
Iron 0.1mg1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
(The nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.)