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Restaurant-Style Garlic & Herb Olive Oil Bread Dip

Close-up of a white bowl containing a flavorful bread dip made of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and mixed herbs.
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Make this simple, flavorful olive oil bread dip at home. It requires minimal ingredients and delivers the savory taste you expect from an Italian restaurant appetizer. This recipe is quick and perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced finely
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional, for swirling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the garlic: Mince the four cloves of garlic very finely. You want the flavor distributed evenly.
  2. Combine dry ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the dried oregano, dried basil, dried rosemary, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Infuse the oil: Pour the olive oil into a shallow serving dish or bowl. Add the minced garlic and the mixed dried herbs and spices to the oil. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Add cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the oil mixture.
  5. Rest the dip: Let the dip sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes. This allows the garlic and herbs to infuse the oil fully. For best results, let it sit for 30 minutes.
  6. Serve: Present the dip with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. If using, drizzle the balsamic vinegar lightly over the top of the oil just before serving to create a swirl effect.

Notes

  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil; since this is a no-cook dip, the oil quality directly impacts the final flavor.
  • For a stronger garlic flavor, you can gently warm the oil with the garlic for 1 minute on the stove, then let it cool completely before adding the herbs.
  • This dip pairs well with sourdough, focaccia, or any artisan loaf.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dishicious.com/easy-bread-dip-recipe/