Olive Oil Bread Dip Recipe

Introduction

This Olive Oil Bread Dip is a simple yet flavorful way to elevate your bread experience. Combining fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of balsamic vinegar, it’s perfect for dipping warm, crusty bread. Quick to prepare, it brings Mediterranean flair to any table.

Ingredients

• ⅓ cup cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh finely chopped basil
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp freshly crushed black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp fresh minced garlic
• 2 tsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Pour the olive oil into a small serving bowl or plate.
2. Step 2: Add the Italian seasoning, minced garlic, chopped basil, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, parmesan cheese, and salt to the olive oil.
3. Step 3: Just before serving, drizzle the aged balsamic vinegar into the bowl and gently stir to combine.
4. Step 4: Serve immediately with warm crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
• Use fresh rosemary or thyme in place of basil for a different herb profile.
• If you prefer a milder dip, reduce the red pepper flakes to a pinch or omit them entirely.
• For a creamier texture, add a spoonful of ricotta or mascarpone cheese on the side.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving and bring to room temperature to enhance the flavors. Avoid reheating as it may alter the taste and texture of the olive oil and vinegar.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular olive oil instead of extra virgin?

Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor and quality, but you can use regular olive oil if needed. Just note the taste will be milder.

Is it necessary to use aged balsamic vinegar?

While aged balsamic vinegar adds a deeper, sweeter flavor, you can substitute it with regular balsamic vinegar if that’s what you have on hand. The dip will still be delicious.

Olive Oil Bread Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 126 reviews

This Olive Oil Bread Dip is a flavorful and aromatic blend of extra virgin olive oil infused with fresh herbs, garlic, parmesan, and a hint of balsamic vinegar. Perfect for dipping warm crusty bread, it elevates any appetizer or snack with its vibrant Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Olive Oil Base

• ⅓ cup cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oil

Herbs and Seasonings

• 1 tbsp fresh finely chopped basil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp freshly crushed black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh minced garlic

Additional Flavors

• 2 tsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Olive Oil Base: Pour ⅓ cup of cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oil into a small serving bowl or plate to serve as the flavorful dip base.
2. Add Herbs and Seasonings: Mix in 1 tbsp fresh finely chopped basil, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes, ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp freshly crushed black pepper, and 1 tsp fresh minced garlic carefully into the olive oil, ensuring the herbs and spices are evenly combined for a balanced taste.
3. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Stir in 2 tsp freshly grated parmesan cheese, which adds a rich, savory depth to the dip and complements the herbaceous flavors.
4. Drizzle Balsamic Vinegar: Just before serving, drizzle 1 tbsp of aged balsamic vinegar into the bowl to introduce a subtle tanginess and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
5. Serve with Bread: Present the olive oil bread dip alongside warm crusty bread pieces for dipping and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Notes

• Use the best quality extra virgin olive oil available for optimal taste.
• Fresh basil and freshly grated parmesan dramatically improve flavor compared to dried or pre-grated options.
• Adjust red pepper flakes quantity according to your preferred spice level.
• This dip is best served immediately but can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving.
• Pairs well with a variety of breads including baguette, ciabatta, and sourdough.

Keywords: olive oil bread dip, bread dipping oil, Mediterranean dip, appetizer, herb olive oil dip, balsamic vinegar dip, parmesan olive oil dip