Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread

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🍞✨ Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

⭐ Ingredients

  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced (or grated)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (optional but recommended)
  • 1–2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan (optional for richness)
  • Warm crusty bread (baguette, ciabatta, focaccia)

🥣 Instructions

1. Prepare the dip base

In a shallow bowl or plate, add:

  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Minced garlic
  • Dried basil
  • Oregano
  • Parsley (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt & black pepper

2. Add acidity (optional but delicious)

  • Stir in balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for brightness.

3. Add Parmesan (optional)

  • Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a creamy, savory finish.

4. Serve with warm bread

  • Warm your bread of choice in the oven or microwave until soft and slightly crisp on the outside.
  • Dip generously and enjoy!

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Fresh baguette
  • Ciabatta
  • Focaccia
  • Sourdough
  • Breadsticks

This dip also pairs wonderfully with:

  • Cheese boards
  • Antipasto platters
  • Pasta dinners
  • Wine nights

💡 Tips for Success

  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil — it’s the star of the dish.
  • Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but roasted garlic works if you want something milder.
  • Add the garlic right before serving to avoid bitterness.
  • If making ahead, mix everything except garlic; add garlic right before serving.

🧾 Description

This dip is aromatic, herbaceous, and rich, with warm Mediterranean spices and a silky olive oil base. Perfect for enjoying with warm bread at the table or as an appetizer for guests.

Nutritional Information (approx per serving)

  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 13g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Sodium: 150mg

(Bread not included in calculation.)

🌟 Conclusion

This Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread is an effortless, elegant appetizer that takes only minutes to prepare but tastes like something from a fine Italian restaurant.

⭐ Recommendation

Add a pinch of crushed rosemary, thyme, or a splash of white wine vinegar for variation. You can also top with sun-dried tomatoes, capers, or fresh herbs for a gourmet twist.

💚 Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. Pairing it with whole-grain or sourdough bread adds a nourishing balance while still delivering satisfying flavor.

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