Nothing enhances the start of a meal quite like a delicious, aromatic bread dip. This irresistible olive oil bread dip combines extra-virgin olive oil with a blend of fresh and dried herbs, aged balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s simple yet packed with flavors that make it the perfect companion for warm, crusty bread. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to enjoy a restaurant-style appetizer at home, this bread dip will add a gourmet touch to any meal.
Ingredients:
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation:
Step 1: Combine Olive Oil and Fresh Ingredients
In a small bowl, pour the extra-virgin olive oil, then add the finely chopped basil and minced garlic. These fresh ingredients will give the dip a wonderful aroma and enhance the overall flavor.
Step 2: Add Balsamic Vinegar
Pour in the aged balsamic vinegar. The vinegar will add a slight tangy sweetness, balancing the richness of the olive oil.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle in the black pepper, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. These seasonings will give the dip a savory depth. The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that can be adjusted according to your preference.
Step 4: Mix in the Parmesan Cheese
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture, stirring until all the ingredients are well combined. The Parmesan brings a subtle nuttiness and slightly salty flavor to the dip.
Step 5: Let the Flavors Infuse
Allow the mixture to sit for about 5–10 minutes, letting the flavors blend together. This brief resting period is essential for enhancing the taste.
Step 6: Serve the Dip
Pour the dip into a shallow serving dish or bowl. Pair it with a plate of warm, crusty bread, and your delicious olive oil bread dip is ready to enjoy!
Variations
- Garlic and Herb Variation
For a garlic-forward version, add ½ teaspoon garlic powder along with the minced fresh garlic. To amp up the herbal notes, try adding a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary for extra depth. - Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Mix
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of minced Kalamata olives to the dip. This variation introduces a Mediterranean twist and complements the olive oil’s richness. - Lemon and Herb Twist
Add 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the dip for a refreshing, citrusy flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also be added to enhance the tanginess. - Spicy Variation
For a bolder, spicier dip, increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Cooking Note
Using high-quality extra-virgin olive oil is key to a delicious bread dip. Its flavor profile greatly influences the taste, so select an olive oil with a rich, fruity, or peppery flavor. Freshly ground black pepper and freshly grated Parmesan cheese also contribute to the dip’s freshness and should be used if available.
Serving Suggestions
- With Fresh Breads: Serve with warm, crusty baguette slices, ciabatta, or Italian focaccia for the best experience. You can also serve it with rosemary bread or a toasted sourdough loaf.
- As a Charcuterie Board Addition: Pair this dip with a charcuterie board filled with cheeses, olives, sliced meats, and assorted crackers for a balanced appetizer platter.
- With Fresh Vegetables: Use it as a dip for fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers, which complement the flavors without overpowering them.
- As a Pizza Drizzle: Drizzle this dip over homemade pizza or use it as a base sauce before adding toppings. The herb and garlic notes will enhance the pizza’s flavors.
Tips
- Infuse Ahead: For a stronger flavor, prepare the dip a few hours ahead and let it sit covered at room temperature to allow the ingredients to infuse fully.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dip, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a beautiful flavor, but you can also add parsley, rosemary, or thyme for more complexity.
- Reheat Bread: Serve the dip with bread that has been lightly warmed in the oven for a fresh, crusty texture that soaks up the dip beautifully.
- Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving, as olive oil may solidify when chilled.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 150 mg
FAQs
1. Can I make this olive oil bread dip in advance?
Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance. Just cover it and leave it at room temperature. The flavors will continue to blend, creating an even richer taste.
2. Can I substitute balsamic vinegar with another type of vinegar?
While balsamic vinegar provides a sweet and tangy balance, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if needed. However, it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
3. Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Just make sure to serve it with gluten-free bread if needed.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dip may thicken due to the olive oil solidifying, so bring it to room temperature before serving again.
Conclusion
This irresistible olive oil bread dip is a simple yet delectable addition to any appetizer spread. With a balance of extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh basil, garlic, and spices, it has all the flavors to elevate your dining experience. The versatility of this dip allows you to customize it with different herbs and seasonings, so it never gets old. Whether enjoyed as a pre-dinner appetizer, paired with vegetables, or drizzled over pizza, this bread dip will become a favorite go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy this taste of Mediterranean-inspired goodness!
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Irresistible Olive Oil Bread Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Olive Oil and Fresh Ingredients
In a small bowl, pour the extra-virgin olive oil, then add the finely chopped basil and minced garlic. These fresh ingredients will give the dip a wonderful aroma and enhance the overall flavor.
Step 2: Add Balsamic Vinegar
Pour in the aged balsamic vinegar. The vinegar will add a slight tangy sweetness, balancing the richness of the olive oil.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle in the black pepper, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. These seasonings will give the dip a savory depth. The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that can be adjusted according to your preference.
Step 4: Mix in the Parmesan Cheese
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture, stirring until all the ingredients are well combined. The Parmesan brings a subtle nuttiness and slightly salty flavor to the dip.
Step 5: Let the Flavors Infuse
Allow the mixture to sit for about 5–10 minutes, letting the flavors blend together. This brief resting period is essential for enhancing the taste.
Step 6: Serve the Dip
Pour the dip into a shallow serving dish or bowl. Pair it with a plate of warm, crusty bread, and your delicious olive oil bread dip is ready to enjoy!
Notes
Using high-quality extra-virgin olive oil is key to a delicious bread dip. Its flavor profile greatly influences the taste, so select an olive oil with a rich, fruity, or peppery flavor. Freshly ground black pepper and freshly grated Parmesan cheese also contribute to the dip’s freshness and should be used if available.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 1g