This Olive Oil Bread Dip is a simple and tasty treat! Just mix fresh olive oil with herbs and spices for a flavor that’s hard to resist.
I love serving this dip with warm bread. It’s such a crowd-pleaser that I like to make extra just in case someone wants to lick the bowl clean! 😄
Making this dip is super easy. Just whisk everything together and you’re all set for a fun snack or appetizer. Grab your bread and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This is the star of your dip! For the best flavor, go for high-quality extra virgin olive oil. If you’re out, you can use regular olive oil, though the taste may not be as rich. I personally love an oil with a fruity taste.
Herbs: Dried oregano, basil, and parsley give great flavor. If you have fresh herbs, feel free to substitute! Just use about three times the amount—you’ll get a fresher taste.
Garlic: Garlic powder is convenient, but fresh minced garlic really elevates this dip. Use one small clove if you love garlic flavor. Adjust the amount based on how garlicky you like things!
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: These add a nice kick. If you prefer no heat, simply omit them. You can also use black pepper for a milder spice.
Balsamic Vinegar or Lemon Juice: This is optional, but it adds brightness to the dip. I like a splash of lemon juice to cut through the richness of the oil. You can skip this if you prefer a more straightforward flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Dip?
To maximize flavor, letting your olive oil dip sit for about 10 minutes after mixing is crucial. This allows all the herbs and seasonings to combine well with the oil.
- Be attentive when whisking; make sure everything is evenly mixed.
- Don’t skip the resting time; it’s key for flavors to meld.
- For serving, use warm or freshly baked bread for a cozy touch that really enhances the experience!
- After enjoying, remember you can store leftovers in the fridge, but bring them back to room temperature before reusing.
These simple techniques will elevate your dip, making it a favorite at get-togethers or quiet evenings at home! Enjoy your dipping!
Olive Oil Bread Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 1 small clove fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh bread (baguette slices, Italian bread, or ciabatta), toasted or fresh for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing up the ingredients and then let them sit for 10 more minutes for the flavors to blend. It’s quick and perfect for a last-minute appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Olive Oil Base:
In a small bowl, pour in the extra virgin olive oil. This will be the delicious base for your bread dip!
2. Add the Seasonings:
Next, sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, parsley, garlic powder (or your minced fresh garlic), crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. These herbs and spices will add all the wonderful flavors.
3. Optional Brightness:
If you’d like, stir in a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice. This little addition will brighten up the flavors, giving your dip an extra zing!
4. Mix and Let It Rest:
Whisk all the ingredients together until they’re well combined. Once mixed, let the dip sit for about 10 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
5. Ready to Serve:
After the resting time, serve your olive oil dip in a small bowl. Place it alongside some freshly sliced and toasted or fresh bread. Everyone will love dipping into this delicious mix!
6. Enjoying the Dip:
To enjoy, simply dip your bread slices into the olive oil mixture. It’s perfect for gatherings, game nights, or just as a delightful treat for yourself!
7. Storing Leftovers:
If you happen to have any leftover dip, cover it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving again to enjoy its full flavor.
This Olive Oil Bread Dip is an easy appetizer or snack that’s packed with herby, garlicky, and slightly spicy flavors that perfectly complement the bread. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs will give the dip a vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried. Just chop them finely before adding them to the olive oil.
What Type of Bread Works Best for This Dip?
Baguette slices, Italian bread, or ciabatta are great choices! You can serve the bread toasted for a crunchy texture or fresh for a softer experience. Feel free to experiment with your favorite artisan breads too!
Can I Make This Dip in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dip up to a day in advance! Just store it in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving. This even allows the flavors to meld further, making it even tastier!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, bring it to room temperature to enhance the flavors. If it thickens, you can whisk in a bit more olive oil to loosen it up.
