Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip: A Flavorful, Easy-to-Make Appetizer Perfect for Any Occasion

JUMP TO RECIPE

There’s something uniquely comforting about dipping fresh, crusty bread into a bowl of warm, aromatic olive oil. The smooth texture, combined with the fragrant burst of basil, garlic, and Parmesan, offers a simple yet indulgent experience that instantly elevates your meal. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home, hosting friends, or preparing for a special occasion, this Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that can be whipped up in minutes.

If you’ve ever savored dipping bread in olive oil at a restaurant, you know how delightful it can be. Now, imagine having that same experience in the comfort of your own home, with a recipe that combines savory herbs, tangy balsamic vinegar, and the richness of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip recipe brings these flavors together effortlessly, creating a dish that’s both simple to prepare and packed with flavor.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Ready to impress your guests with this easy and delightful dip? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

No complicated techniques or hours of preparation—this dip comes together in just a few minutes! You’ll only need to chop fresh basil and garlic, sprinkle in some seasonings, and stir everything together with extra virgin olive oil. In less than 10 minutes, you can serve a gourmet-quality dip that will leave everyone wanting more.

2. Bursting with Flavor

Every bite of this dip offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. The cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil is the star of the show, and with the addition of Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, fresh basil, and minced garlic, you’ll get a vibrant mix of Mediterranean flavors. The aged balsamic vinegar adds the perfect final touch, giving the dip a sweet, tangy richness that complements the savory depth of the other ingredients.

3. Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual gathering, a festive celebration, or a cozy dinner, this dip is ideal for almost any occasion. It’s an excellent appetizer, perfect for serving with warm, crusty bread or fresh vegetables. Plus, it’s great for accompanying a variety of dishes, from pasta to grilled meats, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.

What You’ll Need for the Perfect Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip

This simple recipe requires just a handful of ingredients, many of which you may already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Amount
Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil	⅓ cup
Fresh basil (finely chopped)	1 tablespoon
Crushed red pepper flakes	½ teaspoon
Salt	¼ teaspoon
Freshly ground black pepper	¼ teaspoon
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon
Fresh garlic (minced)	1 teaspoon
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese	2 teaspoons
Aged balsamic vinegar	1 tablespoon
Warm crusty bread for dipping	As desired

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip

Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to bring everything together. Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip.

Step 1: Prepare the Olive Oil Base

The first step is the easiest! Pour ⅓ cup of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil into a small serving dish or shallow plate. Opt for a high-quality, extra virgin olive oil for a rich, full flavor. This olive oil forms the base of your dip, so the better the quality, the better the taste.

Step 2: Mix in the Flavors

Once you’ve poured the olive oil, it’s time to mix in the seasonings. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil over the oil. Then add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper to balance out the flavors.

Finally, stir in 2 teaspoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt slightly into the oil, infusing the dip with its salty, umami richness.

Step 3: Add the Balsamic Vinegar

Before serving, drizzle 1 tablespoon of aged balsamic vinegar over the top of the mixture. The vinegar adds a burst of tangy sweetness that enhances the savory elements and balances the heat from the red pepper flakes. Make sure to use aged balsamic vinegar for a richer, more complex flavor profile.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the dip with warm, crusty bread on the side. A fresh baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough bread works beautifully here. Tear or slice the bread into pieces and dip it into the herb-infused olive oil.

Enjoy the experience of warm bread soaking up the aromatic, flavorful oil as you savor each bite. Don’t forget to pair your dip with a nice glass of wine—maybe a light, crisp white wine or a fruity red that complements the flavors of the dip.

Tips for Perfecting Your Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip

To make sure your dip turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese will really elevate the flavor of this dip. While it may be tempting to use dried herbs or pre-grated cheese, using fresh ingredients will provide a much more vibrant, aromatic experience.

2. Adjust the Spice Level

The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild heat to the dip, but you can adjust the quantity based on your spice preferences. If you like things spicier, add a little extra; if you prefer a milder dip, scale back or skip the red pepper flakes altogether.

3. Experiment with Different Oils

While extra virgin olive oil is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other oils like avocado oil or truffle oil for a unique twist. These oils can bring different nuances of flavor to the dip.

4. Let the Dip Rest

If you have time, let the dip sit for 15-20 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and develop even more depth. However, you can certainly serve it immediately if you’re in a hurry—it’s still delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What makes herb-infused olive oil dip different from regular olive oil?

The difference lies in the added ingredients! Regular olive oil is used as a base, but when you infuse it with fresh herbs like basil, garlic, and seasonings like Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, you create a more complex and flavorful dip. Additionally, the addition of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy sweetness that you won’t find in regular olive oil.

2. Can I prepare this dip in advance?

Yes! In fact, preparing it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together even more. Simply cover and refrigerate the dip for up to 4 hours before serving. Be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving, as the flavors will be more pronounced when it’s not cold.

3. What type of bread is best for dipping?

While any bread will do, crusty bread is ideal for this dip. Try a baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough bread—something with a hearty texture that can hold up to the oil without falling apart. Warm it up in the oven for the best dipping experience.

4. Can I add other herbs or spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the herbs you use. Try adding oregano, rosemary, or thyme for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.

5. Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, this dip is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it with gluten-free bread or fresh vegetables. The ingredients themselves do not contain gluten.

Conclusion

This Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip is a perfect appetizer that combines simple ingredients with rich flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a starter for a dinner party, enjoying it on a cozy night in, or bringing it to a gathering with friends, this dip is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, bursting with Mediterranean flavors, and pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread.

Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to bring it to life in your own kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients to make it your own, and be sure to share the joy of this delightful dip with your friends and family.

So, grab your ingredients, mix everything together, and enjoy the delicious, flavorful goodness of Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip. It’s the perfect way to elevate any meal, big or small.

Print