Description
This Olive Oil Bread Dip is a simple yet flavorful Mediterranean appetizer perfect for serving with warm, crusty bread. Made with extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and a blend of herbs and spices, it offers a delicious and easy way to enhance your bread experience with minimal preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Ingredients
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
Serving
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Mix the base: In a small serving dish or shallow bowl, pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Add the balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Add optional flavor enhancers: If you are using Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, sprinkle them into the mixture now and give it another gentle stir to distribute the flavors.
- Let flavors meld: Allow the dip to sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period lets the garlic and herbs infuse the olive oil, enhancing its aroma and taste.
- Serve: Present the dip alongside warm, crusty bread to enjoy as a tasty appetizer or snack. Encourage guests to dip generously and savor the rich Mediterranean flavors.
Notes
- For a smoother, mellower flavor, lightly sauté the minced garlic in olive oil before mixing it into the dip.
- Omit the balsamic vinegar if you prefer a purer, more straightforward olive oil flavor.
- Experiment with different fresh herbs such as basil or thyme to customize the dip according to your meal or taste preference.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean