There’s something undeniably satisfying about dipping warm, crusty bread into a rich, flavorful olive oil dip. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this Olive Oil Dip with Crusty Bread is an easy yet impressive appetizer.
Inspired by the Italian tradition of pairing high-quality olive oil with rustic bread, this dip is infused with garlic, fragrant herbs, a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, and a hint of acidity from balsamic vinegar. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor, making it a perfect start to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes
- Elevates any meal with a restaurant-style touch
- Customizable with different herbs and seasonings
- A perfect appetizer for entertaining guests
Ingredients
For the Olive Oil Dip
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
For the Bread
- 1 loaf crusty bread (French baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough)
- Olive oil for brushing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the bread into thick pieces or wedges. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil.
- Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until warm and lightly toasted.
Step 2: Make the Olive Oil Dip
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese (if using) for added depth of flavor.
- Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 3: Serve
- Transfer the warm bread to a serving platter.
- Pour the olive oil dip into a shallow dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy with the toasted bread.
Tips for the Best Olive Oil Dip
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Freshly minced garlic gives a stronger, richer flavor.
- Adjust the seasonings to your preference, adding more herbs or spice if desired.
- Let the dip sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
This Olive Oil Dip with Crusty Bread is simple yet full of bold flavors. Serve it as an appetizer, a side for pasta dishes, or a light snack with wine. It’s a go-to recipe that never fails to impress.
