Name: Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: Extra virgin olive oil; Fresh garlic, minced; Italian seasoning or dried herbs (oregano, basil, thyme); Crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Sea salt; Freshly ground black pepper; Balsamic vinegar (optional); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Warm, crusty bread (e.g., baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough)

This Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread is the kind of appetizer that sets the tone for a cozy meal or a casual gathering. Made with high-quality olive oil and a flavorful blend of herbs, garlic, and optional balsamic vinegar, it pairs beautifully with fresh, crusty bread that's warm from the oven. It’s simple, elegant, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe for how quick and effortless it is while still feeling indulgent. The dip takes just minutes to pull together, but it delivers big on flavor. It’s perfect for entertaining, a relaxing weekend snack, or even a pre-dinner nibble when I don’t want to fuss with complicated appetizers. Plus, I can easily tweak the herbs and spices to suit whatever mood I’m in.

ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Extra virgin olive oil
Fresh garlic, minced
Italian seasoning or dried herbs (like oregano, basil, thyme)
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Balsamic vinegar (optional, for tang)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)
Warm, crusty bread (such as a baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough)

directions

I pour the olive oil into a shallow bowl or small plate—just enough to cover the bottom generously.
I mix in the minced garlic, dried herbs, a pinch of red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
If I’m feeling like adding extra depth, I drizzle in a bit of balsamic vinegar and sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top.
I give everything a gentle stir to combine and let it sit for a few minutes so the flavors can infuse.
Meanwhile, I warm the bread in the oven until it’s crisp on the outside and soft inside.
I serve the dip with the warm bread on the side, tearing off pieces to soak up every last drop of oil and herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4–6 people as an appetizer.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time (warming bread): 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

I often switch things up depending on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist. If I want a touch of sweetness, I drizzle in a little honey with the balsamic. Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary give the dip a garden-fresh flavor, and a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten everything up. For a more luxurious dip, I’ve even stirred in truffle oil or a dab of pesto.

storage/reheating

Leftover dip (if I somehow don’t finish it!) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I make sure to give it a stir before serving again, as the oil and seasonings can settle. Bread is best fresh, but I sometimes reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to revive the crust.

FAQs

Can I make the olive oil dip ahead of time?

Yes, I often mix the dip a few hours ahead and let it sit at room temperature to let the flavors meld. Just be sure to stir it before serving.

What kind of olive oil should I use?

I always go for a high-quality extra virgin olive oil with a fruity or peppery flavor—it really makes a difference in a simple recipe like this.

Is the balsamic vinegar necessary?

Not at all. I like the tang it adds, but the dip is just as delicious without it. It’s totally optional.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely. I chop up fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley when I have them, especially in the summer. I just use a little more than I would of dried herbs.

What’s the best bread to serve with this dip?

I prefer a crusty artisan loaf—something like sourdough, French baguette, or ciabatta. I warm it up so it’s soft inside and crisp outside.

Conclusion

This Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread is a go-to for when I want something easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. It’s the kind of appetizer that always gets people gathered around the table, dipping and talking. With just a few pantry ingredients and a good loaf of bread, I can whip this up anytime and make it feel like a special moment.