Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread
This Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread is a delightful and simple appetizer that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. The combination of high-quality extra virgin olive oil infused with aromatic herbs and spices creates a dip that is both fragrant and flavorful. Paired with warm, crusty bread, this dish is perfect for entertaining or enjoying a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary crushed
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Begin by preparing the garlic. Peel the cloves and finely mince them using a sharp knife. The smaller the pieces, the more intense the garlic flavor will be in the dip.
- Step 2: In a small mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic with the extra virgin olive oil. Stir well to ensure that the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the oil.
- Step 3: Next, add the dried basil, dried oregano, crushed rosemary, crushed red pepper flakes, freshly ground black pepper, and kosher salt to the bowl. Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. The aroma of the herbs will start to fill the air, enticing everyone around you!
- Step 4: Allow the dip to sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. This resting time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more robust taste. If you have the time, letting it sit for an hour or more would enhance the flavors even further.
- Step 5: While the dip is resting, prepare your bread. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice a loaf of crusty bread (such as ciabatta, baguette, or focaccia) into thick slices. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and place them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warm and slightly crispy.
Notes
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Tips:
- Quality Matters: Always use high-quality extra virgin olive oil, as the flavor of the dip relies heavily on it. Look for oils that are cold-pressed and have a rich, fruity flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have access to fresh herbs, feel free to substitute the dried herbs with fresh ones for an even more vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as the dried ones.
- Make Ahead: This dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Experiment: Don't hesitate to experiment with different spices or add-ins. A splash of lemon juice or zest can brighten the dip, or you can add a pinch of za'atar for a Middle Eastern twist.