Description
This Olive Oil Bread Dip is a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer featuring extra virgin olive oil infused with fresh garlic, dried herbs, red pepper flakes, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Perfect for serving alongside crusty bread, it brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Ingredients
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3-4 cloves fresh garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve
- Crusty bread (e.g., baguette or ciabatta), for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients on your counter to ensure everything is within reach and the preparation process goes smoothly.
- Chop Garlic: Peel and finely chop 3-4 cloves of fresh garlic until fragrant, releasing their pungent aroma to infuse into the dip.
- Combine Olive Oil and Garlic: In a medium bowl, pour in 1 cup of extra virgin olive oil and add the freshly chopped garlic. Stir gently to distribute the garlic evenly throughout the oil.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon each of dried basil, dried oregano, and dried thyme along with 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix well to incorporate all the dried herbs and spices.
- Season and Finish: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar into the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the dip until all ingredients are well combined and flavors meld together.
- Serve: Pour the prepared dip into a serving bowl and accompany it with slices of crusty bread or toasted baguette pieces for dipping and enjoying this aromatic olive oil blend.
Notes
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- For a milder garlic flavor, you can lightly sauté the garlic before mixing it into the oil.
- Use the freshest extra virgin olive oil for the best quality and flavor.
- Let the dip sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve with warm toasted bread for a delightful contrast.
