This Olive Oil Bread Dip is a flavorful mix of olive oil, herbs, and spices, perfect for dipping fresh bread. It’s simple yet so tasty, you may want to lick the bowl!
I love serving this dip at parties. Everyone always goes back for more, and who can blame them? It’s quick to make, and I often whip it up while the bread is toasting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives the best flavor and richness. If you’re out, use a light olive oil or avocado oil, but avoid refined oils. They lack the flavor punch!
Herbs: Fresh parsley is my favorite, but you can easily swap in dried herbs like basil or thyme. For a stronger taste, consider using fresh oregano instead of dried.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds amazing aroma, but if you’re short on time, garlic powder works well. Just adjust the amount to fit your taste!
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: They add a nice kick. If you prefer milder flavors, you can skip them or use a pinch of paprika instead.
Balsamic Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Both add a nice tang! I prefer balsamic for its sweetness, but fresh lemon juice can brighten the dip beautifully.
How Do I Make the Perfect Olive Oil Dip?
The key to a flavorful dip lies in letting the ingredients blend together. After mixing your olive oil with herbs and spices, let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a richer taste.
- Combine olive oil with herbs and spices in a bowl.
- Add vinegar or lemon juice for an extra flavor boost, if using.
- Let the mixture sit at room temperature so the flavors can develop.
- Toast your bread until it’s crispy, helping it hold up to the dip.
- Serve the dip and bread together for an irresistible appetizer!
Remember, this dip is all about your personal taste. Adjust the herbs, add more garlic, or even throw in some cheese for an extra treat! Enjoy dipping!
Delicious Olive Oil Bread Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for tanginess
For Serving:
- Fresh crusty bread (baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough), sliced and toasted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare the dip and an additional 5-10 minutes to toast the bread, totaling around 15 minutes. It’s quick and simple, making it the perfect appetizer for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a small bowl, pour in the olive oil, then add the dried parsley, oregano, garlic powder (or minced garlic), crushed red pepper flakes (if you like spice), black pepper, and salt. If you’re going for a tangy kick, throw in some balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
2. Mix it Up:
Using a spoon, mix everything together really well until it’s evenly blended. This is where the magic starts, so make sure everything is combined nicely!
3. Let It Rest:
Let your dip sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This short wait allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing that delicious taste.
4. Toast Your Bread:
While your dip is resting, slice your crusty bread and toast it until it’s golden brown. You can do this in a toaster or on a baking sheet in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the bread is toasted and the dip has rested, place the bread on a serving platter next to the dip. Dip each slice of bread into the flavorful oil mixture and enjoy the deliciousness!
6. Optional Finishing Touch:
If you want to impress your guests, garnish the dip with a few sprigs of fresh herbs, like rosemary or parsley. It adds a lovely touch and aroma!
This Olive Oil Bread Dip is simple, fresh, and perfect for sharing! Enjoy it as an appetizer or alongside your favorite meal. Happy dipping!
Can I Use Different Types of Olive Oil for This Dip?
Absolutely! While extra virgin olive oil provides the best flavor, you can use regular olive oil or even avocado oil in a pinch. Just avoid refined oils, as they lack the distinct taste needed for the dip.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dip, simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes. For more heat, feel free to add more than the suggested amount or introduce a dash of hot sauce to the mix!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip a few hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to enhance the flavors.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Dip?
If you have any leftover dip, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To refresh it, give it a good stir before serving, and consider adding a little extra olive oil if needed!
