Imagine a golden pool of the most exquisite Bread Dipping Oil, a harmonious blend of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh herbs, and a touch of grated parmesan. This simple yet stunning blend turns even the humblest loaf into a luxury experience. Ready to transform your table into a gourmet haven? Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful concoction in just minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 10 minutes, this recipe offers maximum taste with minimal effort.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of fresh herbs, olives, and parmesan creates a taste explosion that elevates any meal.
- Customizable: Easily adapted to suit personal tastes or dietary needs by switching up herbs or olives.
- Gourmet Appeal: Impress your guests effortlessly with this elegant and aromatic appetizer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating a stellar Bread Dipping Oil at home is a breeze, thanks to a few key ingredients that each bring their unique flair. Every ingredient serves an essential role, from aromatic herbs to the creamy richness of freshly grated parmesan.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (¾ cup): The backbone of the recipe, providing a silky base with rich, fruity nuances.
- Balsamic Vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly counterbalances the oil.
- Parsley and Basil (2 tablespoons each, finely chopped): Fresh herbs that infuse vibrant color and fresh, earthy flavors.
- Castelvetrano and Kalamata Olives (2 tablespoons each, chopped): These olives bring a blend of buttery and briny flavors.
- Garlic (1 clove, grated): Sharp and pungent, it enhances the depth of flavor in the oil.
- Dried Oregano (½ teaspoon): A touch of Mediterranean warmth that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Flaky Sea Salt (¼ teaspoon or more to taste): This will enhance all the flavors while adding a pleasant crunch.
- Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, freshly grated): A salty, umami-rich finish that elevates the dipping oil to gourmet levels.
- Fresh Warm Bread: The perfect companion to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Variations
This Bread Dipping Oil is a fantastic canvas for creativity. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry.
- Lemon Zest Addition: Try adding a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for a bright, refreshing citrus twist.
- Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a satisfying spice to each bite.
- Nutty Overlay: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and a nutty aroma.
How to Make Bread Dipping Oil
Step 1: Mix the Liquid Ingredients
In a shallow serving bowl, pour in the extra virgin olive oil and follow with a generous drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The vinegar will slowly mingle with the oil, creating a beautiful marbling effect.
Step 2: Add the Flavor Enhancers
Finely chop the fresh parsley, basil, and olives before adding them to the bowl. Grate in a clove of garlic, then sprinkle the oregano and flaky sea salt. Finally, top with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir well to ensure every bite of bread gets an explosion of flavor.
Pro Tips for Making Bread Dipping Oil
- Oil Quality Matters: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor profile.
- Flavor Infusion: Let the mixed oil sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garlic Grating: Grate the garlic instead of mincing to release its oils and ensure even distribution.
- Temperature Tips: Ensure your oil is at room temperature to maximize the aromatic flavors.
How to Serve Bread Dipping Oil
Garnishes
For a touch of elegance, sprinkle a few extra fresh herbs over the top before serving. A scatter of more parmesan on top can also add an irresistible cheese pull when you dip your bread.
Side Dishes
This Bread Dipping Oil pairs beautifully with a variety of appetizers. Consider serving it alongside a cheese board or a platter of fresh, cut vegetables for a delightful starter.
Creative Ways to Present
Use a rustic breadboard and a small dipping bowl to serve your creation. You can also include a small dish with olives and extra herbs for guests to customize each piece of dipped bread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store the Bread Dipping Oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This allows the flavors time to further develop.
Freezing
While fresh herbs may lose their vibrant green when frozen, you can still freeze the oil mixture itself in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before use.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat the oil, but if your mixture solidifies in the fridge, simply let it come to room temperature and stir before serving.
FAQs
-
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, feel free to experiment with vinegars such as red wine or white balsamic to see which complements your tastes best!
-
What kind of bread is best for dipping?
Crusty bread with a well-structured crumb, like a baguette or sourdough, holds up well to the dipping oil without becoming soggy.
-
Can I make this oil in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours or even a day in advance will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Are there any nut-free alternatives to pine nuts?
You can substitute sunflower seeds or eliminate nuts entirely if needed.
Final Thoughts
Prepare to have your senses delighted by this Bread Dipping Oil that’s truly more than the sum of its parts. If you’re looking to impress your guests or elevate a quiet evening in, this recipe is your ticket to flavor paradise. Let’s get dipping!
Print
Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This delicious bread dipping oil combines rich extra virgin olive oil with aromatic herbs, tangy balsamic vinegar, and savory cheeses, creating a perfect accompaniment for warm, crusty bread. It’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal appetizer or appetizer component.
Ingredients
Oil and Vinegar
– 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Herbs and Olives
– 2 tablespoons parsley leaves finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons basil leaves finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons Castelvetrano olives chopped
– 2 tablespoons Kalamata olives chopped
Flavorings and Seasonings
– 1 clove garlic grated
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt or more to taste
Cheese
– 1/4 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
For Serving
– Fresh warm bread
Instructions
- Combine Olive Oil and Vinegar: In a shallow bowl, pour the extra virgin olive oil and drizzle the balsamic vinegar on top, creating a base for the dip.
- Add Herbs and Olives: Finely chop the parsley, basil, Castelvetrano olives, and Kalamata olives, then add them into the bowl, dispersing evenly.
- Flavor the Mixture: Grate in the garlic clove, then sprinkle the dried oregano and flaky sea salt over the mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Freshly grate the parmesan cheese into the mixture, stir again, and serve immediately alongside slices of warm, crusty bread.
Notes
- For a more intense garlic flavor, increase the amount of grated garlic according to taste.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- This dip can be prepared a few hours ahead; let it sit at room temperature before serving to enhance flavors.
- Pair it with a variety of breads such as baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta.
- Adjust the salt and herbs according to personal preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
