Olive Oil Bread Dip

This Olive Oil Bread Dip is easy to make with herbs and seasonings, olive oil, fresh garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Serve it with crusty bread for a simple appetizer idea for family and friends!

Prep Time10

Total Time10

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American, Italian

Servings: people

Calories: 86kcal

Author: Stephanie

Ingredients

Make-Ahead Seasonings

2 teaspoons EACH: dried oregano, basil, parsley
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, freshly cracked black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

When ready to serve

½ cup extra virgin olive oil see notes
3 cloves fresh garlic minced. See notes
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Combine the make-ahead seasonings in a small bowl. This will yield 3 tablespoons, or 3 batches. Use 1 tablespoon per 1/2 cup olive oil.
When ready to serve: Combine 1 tablespoon of the seasonings with ½ cup olive oil, 3 cloves garlic, and 2 tbsp. Parmesan. Store the remaining seasonings in an airtight container until ready to use.
If possible, let the flavors meld at room temperature for 30 minutes prior to serving. Serve with my no knead bread and enjoy!

Notes

Best Olive Oil for Dipping Bread:

Quality is key! Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil, that's labeled as mild (vs. robust).
Go organic if possible for fewer additives.
Look for a "PDO" certification (Protected Designation of Origin).
Dark bottles protect the oil from light which is ideal.
Look for a more recent harvest date for freshness.
Brand Suggestions: Graza "sizzle" Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cobram Estate EVOO, California Olive Ranch, Bertolli Smooth EVOO.

Pro Tips

Garlic: Fresh Garlic is key in this recipe, don't be tempted by the jarred garlic for this one!
Parmesan: Grate the Parmesan from a wedge if possible for the best flavor. I use Belgioioso Parmesan.
Salt: Coarse, kosher salt is best for this recipe. If using table salt, decrease amount to 1 teaspoon.
1-2 teaspoons of Balsamic Vinegar can be added for a little additional depth if preferred.
Additional uses for this Olive Oil Bread Dip: Aside from serving with my No Knead Bread, you can also brush it on chicken/pork, brush it on pizza dough, rolls, or French Bread Pizza, use as a salad dressing or sandwich spread, toss with veggies for roasting, etc.
Prepare 30 minutes before serving if possible so that the ingredients have time to meld and the garlic can infuse the oil with flavor. You can also prepare it up to 24 hours ahead, give it sufficient time to come to room temp before serving.
Make Ahead Method: Combine the dried seasonings ahead of time, they should have a shelf life of 1 year or more, depending on how fresh they are. Combine with oil, garlic, and Parmesan when ready to serve.

Storage:

Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition