Imagine dipping fresh, warm bread into a luscious, aromatic blend that tastes like a sunny afternoon in the Mediterranean. This Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil is a delightful mix of briny olives, robust garlic, and fragrant herbs that will elevate your bread to gourmet status.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: Requires just 10 minutes for a culinary escape.
- Versatile Flavor: Pairs perfectly with any type of warm bread.
- Gourmet Touch: Transforms ordinary bread into a special treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a medley of flavors that dance on your palate. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The base of this recipe, its rich flavor sets the stage.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a tangy sweetness that complements the olives.
- Parsley and Basil: Fresh herbs that provide an aromatic burst of greenery.
- Castelvetrano and Kalamata Olives: Their briny goodness adds depth and character.
- Garlic: A hint of garlic infuses warmth and spice.
- Dried Oregano: Introduces a subtle savory aroma.
- Flaky Sea Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese: Offers a creamy, nutty note.
Variations
Feeling creative? This Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ideas to tailor it to your taste buds or dietary needs.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a fiery twist.
- Citrus Zest: Grate a bit of lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor.
How to Make Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by pouring the extra virgin olive oil into a shallow dish. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar artfully over the oil, creating an appealing swirl pattern. This forms the flavorful base for your dipping oil.
Step 2: Add the Toppings
Chop the fresh herbs and olives finely, then add them to your oil and vinegar mixture. Grate in the garlic, sprinkle the oregano, and finish with a dash of sea salt for seasoning. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into an aromatic blend.
Pro Tips for Making Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil
- Fresh Herb Selection: Always opt for the freshest herbs for the most vibrant flavor.
- Oil Temperature: Mildly warm the olive oil to enhance the infusion of flavors.
- Garlic Infusion: Grate the garlic directly into the oil for a more integrated flavor.
How to Serve Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil
Garnishes
Sprinkle additional parmesan cheese or a few whole olives as garnishes to really make the dish pop. These finishing touches not only enhance the flavor but also add to the presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair this Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil with a simple side salad or a variety of cheeses to complement its rich taste. It’s also perfect served alongside grilled veggies for a full-flavored feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in a rustic, shallow bowl or beautiful platter to highlight the colorful ingredients. Arrange slices of warm, crusty bread around the dipping oil for an inviting centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t recommended for the dipping oil itself, you can freeze the fresh herbs and olives separately, then combine them with oil and balsamic when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary for this recipe, as it’s meant to be enjoyed at room temperature. However, you can gently warm it slightly to revive the flavors if stored overnight.
FAQs
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Can I substitute fresh herbs with dried ones?
Yes, you can use dried herbs, but they are more potent, so use about one-third of the specified fresh amount. Be sure to crumble them to release their flavors.
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What type of bread pairs best with this dipping oil?
A crusty baguette, warm ciabatta, or even a hearty sourdough are all perfect companions for the Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil.
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Can I make this without olives?
Absolutely! The recipe will still be delicious. If you’re not a fan of olives, feel free to omit them or replace with sun-dried tomatoes.
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How long does the dipping oil last?
It can last up to a week in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving again.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the simplicity of Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil. Each dip is a flavorful journey that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. So, why not gather your favorite people, a loaf of crusty bread, and dive into this delightful creation? Enjoy every moment!
Print
Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This flavorful bread dipping oil combines vibrant herbs, briny olives, and rich parmesan cheese in a simple, quickly assembled mixture that’s perfect for enhancing crusty bread. An easy appetizer or side dish, it offers a delightful combination of fresh, tangy, and savory notes with minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Herbs and Olives
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons parsley leaves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons basil leaves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Castelvetrano olives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Kalamata olives, chopped
Additional Flavors and Garnish
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt, or more to taste
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
For Serving
- Fresh warm crusty bread
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a shallow bowl, add the extra virgin olive oil and drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the top. This creates a flavorful base for the dipping oil.
- Add Herbs and Olives: Finely chop the parsley, basil, Castelvetrano olives, and Kalamata olives, then add them to the bowl. Stir to combine and infuse the oil with fresh flavors.
- Flavor the Mixture: Grate the garlic clove directly into the bowl, then sprinkle in the dried oregano and flaky sea salt. Finish by adding the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Serve: Pour the mixture into a serving dish alongside slices of warm, crusty bread. Invite guests to dip and enjoy the rich, herbaceous flavors.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of salt and vinegar to suit your taste.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a spicy kick.
- This dip is best served fresh but can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours; bring to room temperature before serving.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
