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Delicious olive oil bread dip served in a rustic ceramic bowl, perfect for dipping fresh bread slices.

Olive Oil Bread Dip

A simple Italian-style bread dip made with good olive oil, fresh garlic, dried herbs, and a touch of acidity. Ready in about 10 minutes, plus a short rest for the flavors to meld.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 165
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic finely minced or grated
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt or to taste
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice optional
  • Crusty bread sliced and toasted, for serving

Method
 

  1. Pour the olive oil into a small shallow bowl. Add the minced or grated garlic and stir to combine.
  2. Stir in the parsley, oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt.
  3. If using, add the balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for brightness and stir again.
  4. Let the dip sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes so the flavors meld together.
  5. Serve with warm, toasted bread for dipping. Garnish with extra parsley or a pinch more red pepper flakes if desired

Notes

Don't skip the resting time. It's what lets the garlic and herbs actually infuse the oil rather than just sitting in it. Mince the garlic very finely for the best flavor release. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.