Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread

If you’re looking for the perfect appetizer or side dish that’s simple, delicious, and perfect for sharing, let me introduce you to Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread! This recipe is like an instant taste of Italy—dipping warm, soft bread into rich, fragrant olive oil that’s infused with herbs and spices is pure magic. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, savoring every bite and chatting away about how such a simple combo can be so extraordinary. Trust me, once you dip that first piece of bread, you’ll never look at olive oil the same way again. It’s so easy, yet so indulgent, and it’s bound to become a favorite in your house.

Why You’ll Love Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread

This little dipper is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Here’s why it’ll become your new go-to for any occasion:

Quick and Easy

This recipe doesn’t require a ton of ingredients or effort. The olive oil is the star, and you just need a few herbs and spices to elevate it to perfection. The bread is warm and soft, ready to soak up all that deliciousness. It’s as easy as pouring olive oil into a bowl, seasoning it, and grabbing your favorite bread!

Perfect for Sharing

Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a party with friends, or just a cozy night in, this olive oil dip is a great way to bring people together. The dipping, the bread, the savory flavors—there’s something so satisfying about sharing this simple treat.

So Flavorful

It’s amazing how just a few ingredients can create such a burst of flavor. The rich, peppery olive oil blends perfectly with the aromatic herbs and the slight tang from balsamic vinegar. Each dip is a burst of savory goodness that’s impossible to resist.

Versatile

This dip isn’t just for bread—it’s great with veggies, crackers, or even drizzled over a fresh salad. You can get creative with what you dip into it, making it perfect for any gathering or meal.

Customizable

Feel free to tweak the seasoning to your liking. Want a little heat? Add red pepper flakes. Love garlic? Throw in some fresh minced garlic. The beauty of this dip is that it can be easily adjusted to fit your tastes.

Ingredients

This dip is made with simple ingredients, but it packs a punch! Here’s what you’ll need to make it:

For the Olive Oil Dip:

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The star of the show! You want a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It’s rich, fruity, and full of that signature olive oil goodness.
• Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a slight tang and a touch of sweetness that balances out the richness of the olive oil.
• Dried Oregano: This herb gives the dip an earthy, aromatic flavor that’s typical of Mediterranean-style dips.
• Dried Basil: Adds a sweet, slightly peppery note that complements the other herbs and the olive oil.
• Garlic Powder: For a subtle garlic flavor that doesn’t overpower the dish but enhances the overall taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat and excitement to the dip.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. These basic seasonings bring all the flavors together.

For the Bread:

• Baguette: A classic choice for dipping! The crusty exterior and soft interior make it perfect for soaking up the olive oil dip. You can also use ciabatta, focaccia, or any bread you love.
• Butter (optional): If you want an extra touch of richness, brush the bread with some melted butter before warming it up.

Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions

Making this dip is so easy, it feels like a little culinary cheat code. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Olive Oil Dip

In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Warm the Bread

Slice your baguette or preferred bread into thick pieces. If you’re adding butter, melt some and brush it over the slices. Warm the bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s nice and toasty, but still soft inside.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!

Place the olive oil dip in a shallow bowl or plate for easy dipping, and arrange the warm bread slices around it. Serve immediately and enjoy the simple yet mouthwatering combination.

How to Serve Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread

This olive oil dip is perfect as an appetizer or side dish, but it’s also amazing for any casual get-together. Here are a few ways to serve it:

• With an Antipasto Platter: Pair the dip with meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables for a full Mediterranean-inspired spread.
• With Fresh Veggies: Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell peppers make great veggie dippers to add some crunch and freshness.
• Alongside Soup: It pairs beautifully with tomato soup, minestrone, or any hearty vegetable-based soup. The bread is perfect for dunking!
• As Part of a Charcuterie Board: This dip makes a lovely addition to a charcuterie board, along with your favorite meats, cheeses, and crackers.

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to make this dip even more amazing:

• Fresh Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, you can mince a couple of garlic cloves and add them directly to the olive oil for a more robust garlic flavor.
• Herb Variations: If you prefer fresh herbs, feel free to use them instead of dried. Fresh basil and oregano will make the dip even more fragrant.
• Add Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the dip for an extra layer of flavor.
• Infused Olive Oil: For an extra kick, you can infuse the olive oil with your favorite herbs or spices before using it in the dip. Let the olive oil sit with fresh rosemary, thyme, or garlic for a few hours before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4-6
Calories per serving: 250-300 (depending on the amount of olive oil and bread used)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of oil?
A1: Yes, you can substitute olive oil with another oil like avocado or vegetable oil, but olive oil has the best flavor for this dip.

Q2: How long can I store the dip?
A2: The olive oil dip can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Just bring it back to room temperature before serving.

Q3: Can I make the dip ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just stir it well before serving, as the ingredients may settle.

Q4: Can I use a different type of bread?
A4: Absolutely! You can use ciabatta, focaccia, or even pita bread. Choose whatever bread you love best for dipping.

Q5: Can I add other seasonings to the dip?
A5: Definitely! You can experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary, or add a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.

Q6: Can I make this dip vegan?
A6: Yes, the dip is naturally vegan if you skip the optional butter on the bread.

Q7: Can I serve this with something other than bread?
A7: Yes, this dip is also great with veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, or crackers and pita chips.

Q8: How do I make the bread extra crispy?
A8: To make the bread extra crispy, toast it under the broiler for a minute or two, watching closely to avoid burning it.

Q9: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
A9: Yes, use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried herbs. Fresh herbs can add even more aromatic flavor to the dip!

Q10: Can I add a balsamic glaze to the dip?
A10: Absolutely! A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the dip can add an extra touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread is the ultimate combination of simple, yet extraordinary flavors. The rich, savory olive oil paired with the soft, warm bread makes for an irresistible appetizer or side that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a cozy meal with family, or just indulging in a little self-care, this dip is sure to make every moment feel a little bit more special. Enjoy every bite!

Print