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Olive Oil Bread Dip

Olive Oil Bread Dip

Olive Oil Bread Dip is a simple and elegant snack that combines high-quality extra virgin olive oil with fresh herbs, garlic, and seasonings to create a flavorful dip perfect for crusty breads. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and versatile, ideal for casual snacking or entertaining guests. This dip enhances every bite with a balance of fruity, herbaceous, and subtle spicy notes, and can be customized with additional ingredients like balsamic vinegar, roasted garlic, or spices.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Extra virgin olive oil: 1/2 cup (use a good-quality oil)
  • Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or oregano): 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 1-2 cloves, minced or crushed
  • Sea salt: 1/4 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/8 teaspoon (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper: 1/8 teaspoon
  • Lemon zest or juice: 1 teaspoon zest or a few drops of juice (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the herbs and garlic: Chop your fresh herbs finely to release their natural oils and aromas. Mince or crush the garlic cloves to ensure they blend smoothly into the oil, infusing it with flavor without overpowering.
  2. Combine olive oil and seasoning: Pour the extra virgin olive oil into a shallow bowl or plate. Add the minced garlic, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir gently to mix all ingredients evenly across the oil’s surface.
  3. Add fresh herbs and citrus: Sprinkle the finely chopped herbs over the oil and finish with a little lemon zest or a few drops of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and add a subtle zing.
  4. Let it marinate: Allow the dip to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving, giving the flavors time to meld and develop fully.

Notes

  • Choose your olive oil wisely; its flavor will dominate the dip.
  • Serve the dip with warm, crusty bread for best results.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually to suit your taste preferences.
  • Use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor and color.
  • Try different bread types such as sourdough, ciabatta, baguette, or gluten-free options.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days; stir before serving.
  • Freezing is not recommended unless herbs are removed before freezing and added fresh after thawing.
  • Serve at room temperature by removing from fridge 30 minutes prior.

Nutrition

Keywords: olive oil dip, bread dip, appetizer, Mediterranean dip, healthy snack, gluten free, vegan