Herbed bread with olive oil dip is a simple, elegant appetizer that combines warm, aromatic bread with a flavorful dipping oil infused with herbs and spices. Perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or a cozy snack, this dish is easy to prepare and customizable to your favorite flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple yet sophisticated: A rustic dish that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make.
- Customizable flavors: Use your favorite herbs and spices for endless variations.
- Pairs perfectly: Complements soups, salads, pasta, or as a standalone starter.
- Quick to prepare: Ready in just minutes with pantry staples.
- Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for entertaining or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Bread:
- Artisan bread (such as ciabatta, baguette, or focaccia)
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- Dried Italian herbs (optional, for sprinkling)
For the Olive Oil Dip:
- Extra-virgin olive oil (high quality for the best flavor)
- Balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Garlic (minced or grated)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt
- Black pepper
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Slice the bread: Cut the bread into slices or chunks, depending on your preference.
- Toast (optional): For added texture, brush the bread with olive oil and sprinkle with dried Italian herbs. Toast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 2: Make the Olive Oil Dip
- Combine the ingredients: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Add balsamic (optional): Drizzle balsamic vinegar into the oil mixture for a tangy twist. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Serve
- Arrange the bread slices on a serving platter alongside the olive oil dip. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 as an appetizer.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes (if toasting bread)
- Total Time: 10-12 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy addition: Top the bread with grated Parmesan before toasting for a cheesy twist.
- Garlic bread: Rub toasted bread slices with a fresh garlic clove for an extra garlicky kick.
- Spicy dip: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Mediterranean-inspired: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or capers to the olive oil dip.
- Citrusy note: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavors.
Storage
- Bread: Store leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Toast before serving.
- Dip: Keep the olive oil dip in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving, as olive oil may solidify when chilled.
FAQs
What kind of bread works best?
Artisan breads like ciabatta, focaccia, baguette, or sourdough are excellent options.
Can I use fresh herbs?
Yes, fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano can be used for a more vibrant flavor.
Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the olive oil dip up to a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld.
What other dipping options can I serve?
Add hummus, whipped feta, or a balsamic reduction for variety.
Can I use flavored olive oil?
Absolutely! Garlic-infused, chili-infused, or herb-infused olive oil works beautifully.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
What can I pair this with?
This dish pairs perfectly with soups, salads, charcuterie boards, or pasta dishes.
How do I store leftover olive oil dip?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
Can I use balsamic glaze instead of vinegar?
Yes, balsamic glaze adds a slightly sweeter flavor to the dip and works wonderfully.
How can I make the bread extra crispy?
Brush the bread slices with olive oil and bake in the oven or toast them on a grill pan for an extra crisp texture.
Conclusion
Herbed bread with olive oil dip is a simple yet flavorful appetizer that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this rustic dish is the perfect way to start a meal. With its customizable dip and warm, crusty bread, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!
Herbed Bread with Olive Oil Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minute
- Total Time: 15-20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook/Toasting
- Cuisine: Mediterrane
Description
This Herbed Bread with Olive Oil Dip is a simple yet flavorful appetizer or snack! Fresh, crusty bread pairs perfectly with a fragrant olive oil dip infused with herbs, garlic, and a touch of spice. A crowd-pleasing addition to any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
For the Olive Oil Dip:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
For the Bread:
- 1 baguette or loaf of crusty bread, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
-
- Prepare the Olive Oil Dip:
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, if using, for a richer flavor. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Toast the Bread (Optional):
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet.
- Brush the tops lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with dried or fresh parsley. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
- Serve:
- Transfer the olive oil dip to a small serving bowl and place it in the center of a platter. Arrange the bread slices around the bowl.
- Dip the bread into the herbed olive oil and enjoy!
- Prepare the Olive Oil Dip:
Notes
- Customizations: Add balsamic vinegar to the olive oil for a sweet and tangy kick.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the olive oil dip up to 24 hours in advance and store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Bread Options: Use sourdough, ciabatta, or focaccia for variations in texture and flavor.
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