Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dipping oil is vibrant, aromatic, and versatile. It requires no cooking, takes just minutes to prepare, and can be customized with your favorite herbs or seasonings. It’s a simple way to impress guests or elevate a casual snack into a sophisticated treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons parsley leaves, finely chopped
2 tablespoons basil leaves, finely chopped
2 tablespoons Castelvetrano olives, chopped
2 tablespoons Kalamata olives, chopped
1 clove garlic, grated
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt, or more to taste
¼ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Fresh warm bread, for serving

Directions

1. In a shallow bowl, pour in the olive oil and drizzle the balsamic vinegar on top.

2. Finely chop the fresh herbs and olives, then add them to the bowl.

3. Grate the garlic clove into the mixture and sprinkle in the dried oregano and flaky sea salt.

4. Add freshly grated parmesan cheese and stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

5. Serve immediately with warm, crusty bread, or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

Yield: 8 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

• Include lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.

• Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted bell peppers for extra depth.

• Swap parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.

• Experiment with different olives or herbs to match your meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Bring to room temperature and stir well before serving, as olive oil solidifies when chilled.

• Do not microwave; the oil is best served fresh or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, making it 30 minutes to an hour in advance helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Can I use other types of olives?

Absolutely. Green, black, or mixed olives all work well.

Can I skip the cheese for a vegan version?

Yes, the dipping oil is still flavorful without parmesan.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh herbs provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor.

How long will it keep?

Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.

Can I use flavored olive oils?

Yes, flavored oils like garlic or basil can enhance the taste, but balance the flavors with fresh ingredients.

Can I make a larger batch?

Yes, simply scale up the ingredients while keeping the ratios similar.

Can I serve it with other foods besides bread?

Yes, it pairs well with raw vegetables, crackers, or even as a drizzle over roasted meats or salads.

Can I add nuts to this dipping oil?

Yes, toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds add a nice crunch.

Does the balsamic vinegar affect shelf life?

No, it adds flavor but doesn’t significantly extend storage. Keep refrigerated.

Conclusion

This Bread Dipping Oil is a fast, flavorful, and versatile appetizer that elevates any meal. Ready in just 10 minutes, it combines herbs, olives, garlic, balsamic, and parmesan for a rich, aromatic dip that’s perfect for entertaining or a simple treat at home. Simple, customizable, and delicious, it’s a must-have for bread lovers.