This Garlic Olive Oil Dip is a simple blend of fragrant garlic and rich olive oil. Perfect for dipping warm bread or fresh veggies, it’s full of flavor and easy to make!
Every time I make this dip, I can’t help but dunk just a little too much bread—I mean, who can resist? 🍞 Add some herbs for an extra kick if you like!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This is the base of the dip, bringing rich flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with regular olive oil or even avocado oil, but it won’t have the same depth.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that strong aroma and taste. If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder can be an alternative, but use it sparingly—about 1/4 teaspoon for the equivalent flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a nice kick. You can substitute with chili flakes or even a splash of hot sauce if you prefer more liquid texture. Adjust based on your heat preference!
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley for freshness, but basil or cilantro also works well. Dried herbs are fine too—just use about a third of the amount since the flavor is more concentrated.
How Do I Infuse the Best Flavor into My Dip?
The key to flavorful garlic olive oil dip is in the infusion process. Let the ingredients sit for a bit to meld their flavors. Here’s how:
- Combine all the ingredients in a bowl, ensuring the garlic and herbs are well mixed.
- Allow the mixture to rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps the garlic and herbs infuse the oil.
- For a stronger garlic flavor, you can gently heat the mixture on low for a few minutes (just don’t cook it). This warms the oil and further enhances flavor without frying the garlic.
Enjoy your dip warmer, or at room temperature, and serve it with crusty bread for the best experience! 🍞
Garlic Olive Oil Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced or thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Bread slices or crostini, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld together. It’s a quick and easy dip that’s perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a small bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, and dried oregano. This combination will create a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with bread.
2. Season to Taste:
Stir everything well to ensure all the ingredients are incorporated. Then, sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Don’t be shy—taste it to make sure it’s just right!
3. Let it Infuse:
Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it helps the garlic and herbs infuse the olive oil with their delicious flavors, making your dip even more tasty.
4. Serve It Up:
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. If you’d like, add a sprig of fresh rosemary on top for a lovely garnish. It looks beautiful and adds an extra layer of flavor.
5. Dig In:
Serve alongside warm toasted bread slices or crostini. Let everyone dip to their heart’s content—it’s going to be a crowd-pleaser!
6. Store Any Leftovers:
If you have any dip left, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Remember, when you’re ready to enjoy it again, just bring it back to room temperature for the best flavor.
This simple garlic olive oil dip is not only great for dipping bread but also delicious drizzled over grilled vegetables or salads to give your dishes a tasty boost!
Can I Use Different Oils for This Dip?
While extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for flavor, you can use lighter olive oils or even avocado oil if necessary. However, the taste will differ, so keep that in mind!
How Can I Adjust the Garlic Flavor?
If you prefer a milder garlic taste, try roasting the garlic before adding it to the oil. Roasting softens the flavor, giving it a sweet, rich profile. Just use fewer cloves since roasted garlic is stronger in flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving again to enhance its flavors!
Can I Add Other Herbs or Spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil, and you can add spices like paprika for a different twist. Just adjust to your flavor preference to keep the dip balanced!
