If you’ve ever been to a restaurant that serves warm, crusty bread with a delicious, herb-infused olive oil, you know how addicting it can be. Well, now you can recreate that magic at home! This Bread Dipping Oil is packed with flavor, combining rich olive oil, tangy balsamic vinegar, savory parmesan, and fresh herbs for the perfect appetizer or side.
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It’s the ultimate way to elevate your bread game—whether you’re serving it alongside pasta, a charcuterie board, or just as a snack with a glass of wine. Trust me, once you dip, you won’t stop!
Why You’ll Love This Bread Dipping Oil
Better Than Restaurant-Style
This homemade version is fresher, more flavorful, and fully customizable.
Quick & Easy
Ready in 5 minutes with no cooking required.
Perfect for Entertaining
Serve it as an appetizer at dinner parties, holidays, or date nights.
Customizable
Adjust the herbs, spices, and add-ins to match your personal taste.
Pairs with Everything
From warm sourdough to focaccia, this oil makes any bread irresistible.
Ingredients in Bread Dipping Oil
Let’s break down what makes this dip so special.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The base of the dip—use a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar
Adds a touch of tangy sweetness to balance the richness.
Mixed Olives
A mix of green and kalamata olives for a salty, briny depth.
Fresh Parsley
Brings a bright, fresh touch to the dip.
Rosemary
Adds earthy, aromatic notes—fresh is best, but dried works too.
Fresh Basil
A hint of sweet, peppery flavor that pairs beautifully with olive oil.
Garlic
Because every great dipping oil needs a little garlic kick!
Parmesan Cheese
Brings umami and nuttiness for a richer, more savory dip.
Dried Oregano
A must-have for that classic Italian flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes
A touch of heat to keep things interesting.
Flaky Sea Salt
Enhances all the other flavors—don’t skip this finishing touch!
Crusty Bread
Because let’s be honest, this dip is just an excuse to eat more bread!
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Mix the Base
In a shallow serving dish, pour the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Add the Flavor Boosters
Stir in the chopped olives, parsley, rosemary, basil, garlic, and parmesan.
Season It Up
Sprinkle in the oregano, red pepper flakes, and flaky sea salt.
Let It Sit
For the best flavor, let the oil sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the herbs and garlic to infuse.
Serve & Enjoy
Pair with warm, crusty bread and enjoy the incredible flavors in every bite!
How to Serve Bread Dipping Oil
As a Starter
Serve with a variety of breads like baguette, ciabatta, or focaccia.
With Pasta or Pizza
Drizzle over your favorite Italian dishes for extra flavor.
On a Charcuterie Board
Pair with cheeses, meats, and roasted vegetables.
As a Salad Dressing
Use it as a light, herb-infused vinaigrette.
Drizzled Over Grilled Meats or Veggies
Adds a burst of fresh, savory flavor.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store in the Fridge
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Bring to Room Temperature Before Serving
Olive oil solidifies in the fridge, so let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Make It Ahead
Mix everything (except the cheese) and store in the fridge. Add parmesan just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes! Use 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
What’s the best bread to serve with this dip?
Crusty breads like baguette, focaccia, ciabatta, or sourdough work best.
Can I skip the cheese?
Absolutely! It’ll still be delicious and dairy-free.
How can I make it spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Can I use flavored olive oil?
Yes! Garlic-infused or lemon-infused olive oil would be amazing.
How long does this last?
It stays fresh for up to a week in the fridge.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Definitely! Just scale up the ingredients and serve in a larger dish.
What else can I dip in this oil?
Try grilled veggies, shrimp, or even roasted potatoes.
How can I make it more garlicky?
Roast the garlic first for a sweeter, mellow garlic flavor.
Can I add balsamic glaze instead of vinegar?
Yes! It’ll make the dip thicker and sweeter.
Final Thoughts
This Bread Dipping Oil is the easiest way to turn any meal into a restaurant-quality experience. With its rich olive oil, fresh herbs, and bold flavors, it’s simple yet absolutely irresistible.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner, a special gathering, or just because you love good bread, this dip is guaranteed to impress.
Print
Bread Dipping Oil
- Prep Time: 1
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 16 tablespoons 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
- This Bread Dipping Oil is a rich and flavorful blend of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, olives, fresh herbs, and parmesan cheese. A simple yet elegant appetizer, it’s perfect for pairing with warm, crusty bread. Every bite is bursting with herb-infused goodness!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup mixed pitted green olives and kalamata olives, finely chopped
- Small handful of fresh parsley leaves, chopped
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 4 fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely grated
- 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
- Fresh crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- Pour olive oil and balsamic vinegar into a shallow bowl.
- Finely chop olives, parsley, rosemary, and basil, then add them to the bowl.
- Grate in garlic and parmesan cheese.
- Stir in oregano, red pepper flakes, and sea salt. Mix until just combined.
- Serve immediately with toasted crusty bread or homemade focaccia.
Notes
- For extra flavor, let the oil sit for 15-30 minutes before serving.
- Make it dairy-free by omitting the parmesan cheese.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 70 calories (approximate)
- Sugar: 0.3g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 1mg