This Olive Oil Bread Dip is the perfect blend of flavors! With rich olive oil, tangy balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of spices, it’s a simple yet tasty treat.
Dipping bread in this mix is like giving your taste buds a warm hug. I love serving it at gatherings – it disappears fast, and everyone asks for the recipe! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This is key for flavor! It has a rich taste that elevates the dip. If you’re in a pinch, you can use regular olive oil, but keep in mind it won’t have the same depth.
Dried Herbs: Oregano, basil, and thyme are essential here. If you don’t have one, feel free to swap with Italian seasoning or Herbes de Provence. Fresh herbs are also great; just adjust the amounts since they’re usually stronger dried.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: This adds a nice kick! You can reduce the amount if you’re sensitive to spice, or replace them with black pepper or hot paprika for a different flavor.
Garlic: I love fresh garlic for its robust taste, but garlic powder works too for convenience. If you want a milder flavor, you could even omit garlic entirely.
Sea Salt: Adjust to your liking based on whether you’re serving this with salty bread. You could also use a flavored salt or garlic salt for an extra twist.
How Do I Make Sure the Flavors Infuse Well?
Letting the dip sit is crucial to meld all the wonderful flavors together. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfect:
- Mix your ingredients in a bowl thoroughly to disperse the herbs and spices.
- Set it aside for at least 10 minutes, but longer is even better if you can wait! This lets the oil absorb the herb flavors.
- Keep it covered to maintain freshness and prevent any strong smells from the garlic overbearing the other flavors.
A little patience goes a long way in making this dip truly enjoyable!
How to Make Olive Oil Bread Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes for garnish (optional)
For Serving:
- Fresh crusty bread, sliced (such as baguette or Italian bread)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 10 minutes for the flavors to infuse. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dip ready to enjoy with your favorite bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Olive Oil and Spices:
Grab a small bowl and pour in the 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil. Now, add the dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. If you’re using garlic powder or minced garlic, add that in too! Sprinkle the black pepper and sea salt over the top.
2. Mix Everything Together:
Using a small whisk or fork, stir everything together until it’s well combined. You want to make sure all the herbs and spices are evenly mixed into the olive oil.
3. Let It Infuse:
Now, let your dip sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes. This waiting time is important because it allows all those lovely flavors to blend and infuse into the olive oil. Yum!
4. Serve the Dip:
After the waiting period, transfer your dip to a serving bowl. If you want to add a touch of color, sprinkle some fresh or dried parsley on top as a garnish.
5. Enjoy with Fresh Bread:
Slice up your fresh crusty bread, like a baguette or Italian bread, and serve it alongside the olive oil dip. To enjoy, simply dip a piece of bread into the flavored oil and savor the deliciousness!
This dip is perfect as an appetizer or as a delightful accompaniment to any meal. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Oil?
Yes, you can experiment with different oils like avocado oil or a flavored olive oil for a twist. However, extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor that complements the herbs beautifully.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients might settle.
Is There a Way to Make This Dip Healthier?
You can reduce the amount of olive oil for a lighter version, or use a combination of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick. Just adjust the herbs to balance the flavors!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Dip?
Absolutely! Feel free to add grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor or some chopped sundried tomatoes for a different dimension. Just keep in mind that these additions might alter the consistency a bit.
