Bread Dipping Oil
A simple bread dipping oil made with extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, dried herbs, and red pepper flakes. Serve with crusty bread and optional freshly grated Parmesan.
Equipment
- Small Bowl
- Whisk
- shallow bowl or plate
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/2 cupolive oil extra virgin
- 1 tablespoonbalsamic vinegar
- 2 clovesgarlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoondried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoondried basil
- 1/4 teaspoonred pepper flakes
- salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese freshly grated, optional
- crusty bread for serving
Instructions
Instructions
- Mince the 2 cloves garlic and measure the remaining ingredients: ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon dried basil, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes to the oil and vinegar.
- Whisk the mixture until well combined and the garlic is evenly distributed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, whisk again, and taste; adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Transfer the dipping oil to a shallow bowl or plate for serving. If using, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Serve immediately with slices of crusty bread for dipping (you may let the oil sit 5–10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld, if desired).
Notes
Quality of Olive Oil:Use extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It forms the base of this dip, so a high-quality oil will significantly enhance the taste.
Herbs Selection:Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Dried herbs work well, but fresh ones can be used for a more vibrant flavor. Adjust quantities to taste.
Serving Suggestions:This dipping oil pairs wonderfully with a crusty artisan bread. It can also be used as a salad dressing or a marinade for chicken and vegetables.
Storage:If you have leftover dipping oil, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving again.
Garlic Intensity:If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Conversely, garlic enthusiasts may want to add more.
Heating Option:For an added dimension of flavor, you can gently heat the oil with the herbs to infuse it before cooling and serving.
Herbs Selection:Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Dried herbs work well, but fresh ones can be used for a more vibrant flavor. Adjust quantities to taste.
Serving Suggestions:This dipping oil pairs wonderfully with a crusty artisan bread. It can also be used as a salad dressing or a marinade for chicken and vegetables.
Storage:If you have leftover dipping oil, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving again.
Garlic Intensity:If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Conversely, garlic enthusiasts may want to add more.
Heating Option:For an added dimension of flavor, you can gently heat the oil with the herbs to infuse it before cooling and serving.