Description: A simple yet elegant olive oil dip infused with aromatic herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for enjoying with crusty bread. This quick and easy appetizer is ready in minutes and is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
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
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Freshly baked crusty bread, sliced
Preparation:
This recipe requires minimal preparation, focusing on combining the right ingredients to create a flavorful and balanced dip. The freshness of the olive oil and the quality of the herbs are key to achieving the best possible taste.
Step 1: Prepare the Herbs and Spices Begin by gathering all your dried herbs and spices. Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of crushed dried rosemary, ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. These ingredients will form the aromatic base of your olive oil dip.
Step 2: Mince the Garlic Peel and mince two cloves of garlic as finely as possible. Mincing the garlic ensures that its flavor is evenly distributed throughout the olive oil. You can use a garlic press if you prefer, but finely mincing by hand provides a more intense garlic flavor.
Step 3: Combine Herbs and Spices In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, rosemary, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and kosher salt. This combination of herbs and spices will infuse the olive oil with a rich and complex flavor profile.
Step 4: Add Olive Oil and Cheese Pour ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil over the herb mixture in the bowl. Ensure that the olive oil is high-quality, as it is the base of the dip and significantly impacts the overall flavor. Stir in 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. The Parmesan cheese adds a savory and slightly salty element to the dip, enhancing its richness.
Step 5: Optional Balsamic Addition For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to the mixture. The balsamic vinegar introduces a hint of sweetness and acidity that balances the other flavors and adds depth to the dip. Stir well to incorporate the vinegar evenly.
Step 6: Serve Transfer the prepared olive oil dip to a shallow serving dish. This allows for easy dipping with the bread. Serve immediately with slices of warm, crusty bread for the best experience. The warmth of the bread complements the flavors of the dip, creating a delightful combination.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This olive oil dip is incredibly versatile and appealing for several reasons:
- Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, this recipe is perfect for both impromptu gatherings and planned events.
- Flavor: The combination of herbs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and optional balsamic vinegar creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated.
- Versatility: It pairs perfectly with a variety of breads, vegetables, and even grilled meats, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
- Customization: The recipe can be easily adapted to suit individual tastes. You can adjust the amount of garlic, red pepper flakes, or balsamic vinegar to create a dip that is perfectly tailored to your preferences.
- Elegance: Despite its simplicity, this olive oil dip presents beautifully and adds an elegant touch to any table. It’s an easy way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a variety of crusty breads, such as baguette slices, focaccia, or ciabatta.
- Offer an assortment of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, celery, and cucumbers for dipping.
- Pair with grilled meats or seafood as a flavorful condiment.
- Use as a base for bruschetta by topping toasted bread with the olive oil mixture and fresh tomatoes.
- Drizzle over pasta or pizza for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips:
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Freshly grate the Parmesan cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness.
- Allow the dip to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, sage, or lemon zest, to create unique flavor combinations.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Infuse the olive oil with roasted garlic for a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor.
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
0 minutes
Total Time:
5 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
This Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious. Its ease of preparation, combined with its versatile flavor profile, makes it a go-to appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a casual meal with family, or simply looking for a flavorful snack, this olive oil dip is sure to delight. So gather your ingredients, slice some crusty bread, and prepare to indulge in a culinary experience that is both satisfying and effortless.
Questions and Answers about This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use dried garlic powder instead of fresh minced garlic?
A: While you can use dried garlic powder in a pinch, the flavor won’t be as vibrant or intense as fresh minced garlic. Fresh garlic provides a pungent, aromatic quality that is essential to the dip’s overall flavor. If you must use garlic powder, start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste, keeping in mind that it won’t offer the same depth of flavor as the fresh minced garlic. For an enhanced experience, consider roasting a head of garlic, mashing the softened cloves, and incorporating that into the dip for a sweeter, more complex garlic flavor.
Q2: Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese with another type of cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute Parmesan cheese with other hard, salty cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago. Pecorino Romano will offer a sharper, saltier flavor, while Asiago will provide a nuttier, milder taste. Avoid using soft cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta, as they will not provide the same texture and flavor profile needed for this dip. Remember to grate the cheese finely for even distribution throughout the olive oil.
Q3: How long does the olive oil dip last in the refrigerator?
A: The olive oil dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the olive oil may solidify when chilled. To return it to its original consistency, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving, or gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds. The flavor may intensify over time, so it’s often best enjoyed within the first day or two.
Q4: Can I add other herbs or spices to the dip?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is highly customizable. You can add other herbs such as thyme, sage, or marjoram. Spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a pinch of saffron can add interesting flavor dimensions. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or basil can be incorporated just before serving for a burst of freshness. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.
Q5: Is there a vegan alternative to Parmesan cheese for this recipe?
A: Yes, there are several vegan alternatives to Parmesan cheese that you can use in this recipe. Nutritional yeast is a popular choice, as it has a cheesy, nutty flavor. You can also find vegan Parmesan cheese substitutes made from nuts, seeds, or soy. These alternatives can be used in the same quantity as the Parmesan cheese. If using nutritional yeast, you might want to add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor, as it tends to be less salty than Parmesan cheese.
