This garlic olive oil dip is a simple and tasty treat for your bread or veggies. With just a few fresh ingredients, it’s easy to whip up and so flavorful!
I love to serve it at parties, and it always disappears fast! Plus, it’s fun to create your own mix by adding herbs. Who knew dipping could be this much fun? 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This is the base that provides richness. I always recommend choosing high-quality, extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or a light olive oil can work, but they won’t have quite the same taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that robust flavor. If fresh isn’t available, you can use jarred minced garlic, but the flavor won’t be as strong. I prefer the punch of raw garlic, but roasting it first can give a milder, sweeter taste.
Herbs: Dried oregano and parsley are classic choices. If you have fresh herbs, feel free to use them! Just triple the amount since fresh herbs are not as concentrated in flavor. You could also try adding thyme or basil for a twist.
Red Pepper Flakes: They provide a nice kick! If you want less heat, you can reduce the amount or skip them altogether. Alternatively, use freshly chopped chili peppers for more heat and flavor if preferred.
Lemon Juice: The lemon adds brightness. It’s optional, but I find it enhances the overall taste. If you want a milder acid, you can substitute with a splash of vinegar like white wine or apple cider vinegar.
How Do You Infuse the Best Flavors in This Dip?
Letting the dip sit after mixing is key for flavor infusion. Here’s how to make sure your dip sings with flavor:
- Combine the dry ingredients first, allowing their flavors to mingle before adding oil.
- After adding olive oil, stir gently to combine but don’t overmix.
- Letting it rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes allows the garlic and herbs to release their oils into the olive oil, creating a more aromatic dip.
This resting time is essential. The longer you let it sit, the more pronounced the garlic flavor becomes. If you can, make it ahead of time! It tastes even better after a few hours or overnight.
Garlic Olive Oil Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Crusty bread slices, toasted, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This garlic olive oil dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. In total, you’re looking at about 20-25 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a small bowl, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until well mixed. This is where the magic begins!
2. Add the Olive Oil:
Next, pour the extra virgin olive oil over your herb and garlic mixture. Give it a good stir to combine everything well. You’re creating a wonderful infusion of flavors!
3. Optional Zing with Lemon:
If you love a bit of acidity, add in the tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and mix it in. This step enhances the brightness of the dip, but it’s totally up to you!
4. Let it Rest:
Now, here comes the important part! Let the dip sit at room temperature for at least 10-15 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even tastier.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your garlic olive oil dip in a shallow bowl alongside toasted slices of crusty bread. Let everyone dig in! This dip makes for a fantastic appetizer or snack that pairs perfectly with everything from bread to veggies.
6. Relish the Flavor:
Enjoy the delicious garlicky goodness! It’s a perfect way to kick off any meal or to enjoy as a savory snack. Share with friends or keep it all to yourself— no judgment here!
This garlic olive oil dip is simple, aromatic, and bursting with flavor. Enjoy the delightfully garlicky kick, enhanced by herbs and a little kick from the red pepper flakes!
Can I Use Fresh Garlic Instead of Minced Garlic?
Yes! Fresh garlic is actually recommended for the best flavor. Simply mince your fresh cloves as directed in the recipe. Just keep in mind that fresh garlic has a stronger flavor, so if you’re concerned about it being too potent, you can use a bit less.
What Types of Bread Work Best for Dipping?
Crusty bread is a great choice! Baguettes, ciabatta, or sourdough are all perfect for dipping. You can also use pita bread or even breadsticks for a fun twist. Just make sure they’re lightly toasted for the best crunch!
Can I Store Leftover Dip?
Yes, you can store leftovers! Keep the dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, so it may actually taste even better the next day! Just give it a good stir before serving again.
What Can I Add to Customize This Dip?
There are tons of ways to customize this dip! You can add freshly chopped herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor, or sprinkle in some grated cheese like Parmesan for richness. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also add an interesting depth. Feel free to experiment!