Print

Easy Restaurant-Style Olive Oil Bread Dip

Close-up of a vibrant olive oil bread dip mixture with green herbs, chopped garlic, and red pepper flakes.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this simple, flavorful olive oil bread dip at home in minutes. It tastes like the best Italian restaurant starter, perfect for dipping crusty bread.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  2. Pour the extra virgin olive oil into a shallow serving dish.
  3. Sprinkle the spice and herb mixture evenly over the surface of the olive oil.
  4. If using, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
  5. Let the olive oil bread dip sit for at least 5 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to infuse.
  6. If you prefer a balsamic swirl, pour the balsamic vinegar into a separate small bowl or drizzle it directly onto the oil just before serving.
  7. Serve immediately with warm, crusty bread for dipping.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can gently warm the olive oil with the spices for 30 seconds before letting it cool slightly and serving.
  • This dip is excellent served alongside a main course or as a party appetizer.
  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.

Nutrition