The Ultimate Mediterranean Bread Dipping Oil
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever wondered what makes Italian restaurants so darn inviting? More often than not, it’s a killer Bread Dipping Oil . This Dipping Oil Recipe is so good it's become my go-to for parties.
This recipe is full of incredible flavor!
Brief Overview
This Italian dipping oil recipe is a classic from the Mediterranean, dating back centuries. It's super easy, taking only 45 minutes , including prep and melding time, and serves 6-8 people .
Get ready to impress your mates!
Main Benefits
Besides being delicious, this Homemade bread dipping oil is packed with antioxidants from the Olive Oil Dip and herbs. It's perfect as an appetizer for any dinner party.
What makes this Garlic herb dipping oil special? Honestly, it’s the fresh herbs, the quality olive oil , and a little patience.
Let's Talk Ingredients:
This recipe is straightforward, honestly. Here's what you'll need. Remember, quality counts!
- 1 cup (240ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Don't skimp here.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic is King.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped: Or 2 teaspoons dried.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary, chopped: Or 1 teaspoon dried.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme, chopped: Or 1 teaspoon dried.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: Essential Mediterranean flavor.
- ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of a kick.
- ½ teaspoon Sea Salt: Balances the flavours.
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground: Adds depth.
- 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar: Optional, but adds a zing.
Now, for the bread, you can use any bread. But I recommend a crusty bread dipping for that extra crunch.
A Little Secret
Blooming the garlic (heating gently in oil) really elevates the flavour. It is also important to remember that the Bread Dipping Oil Recipe can also be a Mediterranean dipping oil .
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Dipping Oil Party Started!
Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to make this amazing Bread Dipping Oil Recipe . It is so easy. You know? I've made this so many times, even my dog knows the smell of garlic and herbs means something tasty is coming.
This Dipping Oil Recipe will blow your mind.
Main Players: Olive Oil and Herbs
- 1 cup (240ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil : Seriously, get the good stuff. You'll taste the difference. If it tastes cheap, it is cheap. Look for something fruity and peppery.
- 4 cloves Garlic : Mince it fine, about 2 teaspoons . Fresh is best!
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried): Fresh is so much brighter, honestly.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried): Woody and wonderful.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried): Earthy and fragrant.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano : A classic!
- ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes : For a little kick! Adjust to your liking.
- ½ teaspoon Sea Salt : Enhances everything.
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper : Freshly ground is the way to go.
- 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar (optional): Adds a tangy depth.
Seasoning Notes: The Secrets to Flavour Town
This Garlic herb dipping oil isn't just oil and herbs. It's an experience. The red pepper flakes bring a little heat.
The oregano adds that classic Mediterranean dipping oil flavour. Balsamic vinegar gives it a sweet and sour tang, making the taste complex.
Don’t skip the salt and pepper!
If you don't have fresh herbs, don't panic. Dried herbs work fine! Just use less. If you want a spicier Italian dipping oil , add more red pepper flakes.
No balsamic? A squeeze of lemon works too. It will create a memorable Olive Oil Dip .
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid
Honestly, you don't need fancy gear.
- Small saucepan (optional, for blooming the garlic, totally recommend!)
- Small bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Serving dish
Don't have a saucepan? Use a microwave safe bowl. No whisk? A fork works perfectly. A small plate can be a serving dish if needed.
Remember, Crusty bread dipping is all about sharing, so any serving dish will do. Using Homemade bread dipping oil to wow your guest is so easy and delightful.
Unleash Your Inner Italian with Homemade Bread Dipping Oil
Honestly, who can resist a good olive oil dip ? I know I can't! It's the perfect starter, or even a sneaky midnight snack.
This Bread Dipping Oil recipe is so easy it's almost embarrassing. You know? It feels like cheating! Think warm crusty bread dipping into a pool of garlicky, herby goodness.
Oh my gosh!
Prep Like a Pro Essential Mise en Place
First things first, let's get organised. Chop your fresh parsley, rosemary, and thyme. Mince that garlic like you mean it! Measure out your spices.
Having everything ready before you start makes life so much easier. Safety reminder: Wash your herbs! No one wants gritty dipping oil .
A good quality extra virgin olive oil is a must, otherwise you are wasting your time.
step-by-step to Dipping Heaven
Here’s how to create the best Dipping Oil Recipe ever, my friend:
- Bloom the Garlic: (Optional but AMAZING): Gently heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over low heat . Add minced garlic and cook for 2- 3 minutes , until fragrant. Don't burn it! Burnt garlic ruins everything!
- Combine the Goodness: In a bowl, mix the rest of the olive oil , parsley, rosemary, thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Garlic Time (If Blooming): Pour the garlic and the infused oil into your herb mix. That aroma? Chef's kiss!
- Balsamic Boost (Optional): Stir in balsamic vinegar if you're feeling fancy! It adds such a nice tang.
- Let It Mingle: Cover and let it sit for at least 30 minutes . Letting those flavours meld is key. The longer, the better!
- Serve and Devour: Pour into a shallow dish, grab your crusty bread dipping , and dig in!
Pro Tips for a Knockout Italian Dipping Oil
Want to take your garlic herb dipping oil to the next level? Here are a few tricks I've learned:
- Don't skimp on the melding time. I've tried rushing it, and it's never the same. Trust me on this one.
- Avoid burning the garlic. Low and slow is the way to go for blooming. If you mess it up, start again!
- make-ahead option: Prepare the oil a day or two in advance. The flavours will deepen even more. This works great as a Mediterranean dipping oil , too.
Enjoy your homemade bread dipping oil . It's a game changer, I promise.
Recipe Notes
Let's talk details! This Bread Dipping Oil recipe is seriously simple, but a few tweaks and tips can take it from good to amazing .
Honestly, it's all about making it your own!
Serving Suggestions - Get Creative!
Think beyond just dipping! I love serving this with warm, crusty Italian bread. A proper Crusty bread dipping is a MUST.
But it's also amazing drizzled over grilled veggies. Picture this: fresh asparagus with a generous glug of this Olive Oil Dip .
Oh my gosh, perfection! Plating wise, a shallow bowl shows off the oil beautifully. Add a sprig of rosemary for a touch of fancy! And for drinks? A crisp, chilled glass of Pinot Grigio is the perfect partner.
Imagine it like you were in Napoli or Sicily.
Storing That Liquid Gold
Leftovers? Lucky you! This Dipping Oil Recipe keeps well. Pop it in an airtight container in the fridge. It'll solidify a bit because of the olive oil, so just let it come to room temperature before serving.
It should last about a week. I don't recommend freezing it, as the texture can change. When reheating just give it a stir.
Variations - Let's Mix it Up!
Want to get a bit wild? For a spicy kick, add some extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Or try a lemon zest! For a dietary adaptation, this recipe is naturally vegan, perfect for everyone! You could also try other vinegars instead of balsamic.
Nutrition - Goodness in Every Dip
Okay, let's keep it real. This Homemade bread dipping oil is mostly olive oil, so it's not exactly a health food.
But extra virgin olive oil has some amazing benefits, like antioxidants and healthy fats. It is mainly fat, so use it sparingly.
The herbs also add some vitamins and minerals. So, enjoy responsibly!
Seriously, this Italian dipping oil recipe is a winner. It is also considered a Mediterranean dipping oil . It's easy, impressive, and tastes incredible.
Whether you call it Bread Dipping , Dipping Oil , or just plain delicious, give it a go! You got this! This Garlic herb dipping oil will be your new party trick, I promise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of olive oil is best for Bread Dipping Oil? I don't want to make a right royal mess of it!
You want to use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for your bread dipping oil. Think of it like choosing a decent bottle of plonk for a dinner party it doesn't have to be the most expensive, but definitely avoid the bargain basement stuff.
The flavour of the olive oil is really prominent, so splurging a little makes a big difference!
Can I make Bread Dipping Oil ahead of time? I'm prepping for a party and trying to be organised like Mary Berry!
Absolutely! In fact, I highly recommend making your bread dipping oil at least a few hours in advance, or even the day before. This gives the flavours time to meld and deepen, resulting in a much more delicious dip. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature no need to refrigerate it.
How long does Bread Dipping Oil last, and how should I store it? I'm worried about it going off!
Your Bread Dipping Oil will keep for about a week at room temperature, as long as it's stored in an airtight container. There's no need to refrigerate it. If you're not planning to use it within a week, you can refrigerate it, but the olive oil will solidify. Just bring it back to room temperature before serving.
If you did bloom the garlic, it is best consumed within 3 days.
I'm not a fan of garlic, can I leave it out of the Bread Dipping Oil?
While garlic adds a lovely flavour, you can definitely adjust the recipe to suit your tastes. You can reduce the amount of garlic, or even omit it entirely. If you are leaving the garlic out, it is important to consider what flavour to use as a stand in. Try using double the amount of rosemary for a bolder taste!
Experiment with different herbs and spices to create a dipping oil that you love. Ultimately, cooking is all about making it your own!
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh in this Bread Dipping Oil recipe? My herb garden is looking a bit sad at the moment!
Yes, you can definitely use dried herbs! Fresh herbs offer a brighter flavour, but dried herbs are a perfectly acceptable substitute. As a general rule, use about 1/3 of the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh. So, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary instead.
Just give them a little rub between your fingers before adding them to release their aroma.
The Ultimate Mediterranean Bread Dipping Oil
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 200 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 0g |
