Description
This Olive Oil Bread Dip is a flavorful and aromatic Italian appetizer perfect for enhancing your bread service. Combining extra virgin olive oil with fresh garlic, herbs, and a hint of balsamic vinegar, this dip is simple to prepare and bursting with rich Mediterranean flavors. Ideal for dipping warm crusty bread, focaccia, or artisan sourdough, it makes a delightful starter or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Ingredients
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and minced garlic thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Add Herbs and Seasonings: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients uniformly.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to blend into the olive oil mixture, adding a savory depth to the dip.
- Rest to Meld Flavors: Let the dip sit for at least 10 minutes at room temperature. This resting period allows the herbs and garlic to infuse the olive oil, intensifying the flavors.
- Final Stir and Garnish: Before serving, give the dip another gentle stir. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a touch of color and fresh herbal aroma.
- Serve: Offer with warm crusty bread, focaccia, baguette slices, or artisan sourdough to enjoy as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, strain out the garlic after infusing the oil if preferred.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and aroma.
- This dip pairs excellently with various bread types such as focaccia, baguette, or artisan sourdough.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to taste for desired heat level.
