Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes)

Name: Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons parsley leaves (finely chopped); 2 tablespoons basil leaves (finely chopped); 2 tablespoons Castelvetrano olives (chopped); 2 tablespoons Kalamata olives (chopped); 1 clove garlic (grated); ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt (or more to taste); ¼ cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated); fresh warm bread (for serving)

This Bread Dipping Oil is a quick and easy way to elevate your appetizer game! Rich extra-virgin olive oil, tangy balsamic vinegar, fresh herbs, and savory olives make the most flavor-packed dip. Serve it with warm, crusty bread for a simple yet elegant starter that will impress all your dinner guests!

Jump to Recipe

Bread chunks with herbed oil on a plate.

Why This Recipe Works

I seriously can’t get enough of this bread dipping oil! I’ve been seeing it all over my social media feeds recently, and once I made my own recipe, I knew I needed to share it with as many people as possible.

The extra-virgin olive oil provides a rich and smooth base, while balsamic vinegar adds a touch of tanginess. Fresh parsley and basil give the dip a bright, herbal flavor, and the combination of Castelvetrano and Kalamata olives adds a savory depth.

Spoon sitting in oil with herbs and olives.

This recipe yields a generous amount, so there’s plenty to go around (trust me, you’ll need it). It’s perfect for entertaining friends and family or adding a gourmet touch to simple weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the richest, smoothest base with a fruity, slightly peppery flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the olive oil. Again, use good-quality balsamic vinegar with a D.O.P. seal for the best flavor.
Parsley Leaves: Impart a fresh, slightly peppery flavor. Use Italian (flat-leaf) parsley.
Basil Leaves: Gives the dip a sweet, aromatic herbal element. I recommend Genovese basil for the best results.
Castelvetrano Olives: Offer a mild, buttery flavor and firm texture.
Kalamata Olives: Adds a robust, tangy flavor with a hint of saltiness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a savory, aromatic depth.
Dried Oregano: Adds a slightly bitter, earthy flavor.
Parmesan: Gives the dip the perfect level of salty, umami richness. Use freshly grated Parmesan from a block, not pre-grated cheese.
Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for soaking up the flavorful bread dipping oil! Use any crusty French or Italian bread you prefer, such as baguette or focaccia.

Mixing herbs, olives, and Parmesan into oil.

Instructions

Combine the Base Ingredients: Add the extra-virgin olive oil to a small bowl and drizzle the balsamic vinegar on top.
Add the Fresh Components: Finely chop the parsley and basil leaves, then add them to the bowl.
Mix in the Olives: Chop the Castelvetrano and Kalamata olives, then add them to the oil and herb mixture.
Incorporate the Aromatics: Grate a garlic clove into the bowl and add the dried oregano and flaky sea salt.
Finish with Cheese: Freshly grate Parmesan cheese into the mixture and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Serving: Pair your bread dipping oil with fresh, warm crusty French baguette or focaccia for the best taste and texture.

Substitutions & Variations

Olive Oil: Experiment with different high-quality oils, like truffle or walnut oil, for a unique twist. You can also try infused olive oils, like red pepper, garlic, lemon, or basil.
Herbs: You can try substituting parsley and basil with other fresh herbs, like rosemary, thyme, or cilantro for different flavor profiles.
Olives: Use other types of olives, like green or black olives for a variation.
Cheese: If you don’t have any Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or Asiago instead.
Additional Flavors: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, sun-dried tomatoes for tangy sweetness, or lemon zest for a citrusy brightness.

Storing

If you have any leftover bread dipping oil, just follow these storage tips for the best results:

Room Temperature: I don’t recommend storing your bread dipping oil at room temperature for extended periods due to the fresh garlic and herbs. If you plan to use the dipping oil within a few hours, it’s fine to keep it on the counter.
Fridge: The best way to store bread dipping oil is in the refrigerator, especially since it contains fresh herbs and garlic. Place the dipping oil in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to a week. The olive oil may solidify when cold, but you can bring it back to room temperature before serving to restore its liquid state and flavor.

Expert Tips

Source Quality Ingredients: Use the best quality extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar you can find and afford for the most flavorful dip. I suggest sourcing them from your local Mediterranean market.
Fresh Herbs: Freshly chopped herbs make a big difference in flavor compared to dried herbs. I recommend using at least two types of fresh herbs for this bread dipping oil.
Even Chopping: Chop all ingredients finely and evenly to ensure a well-blended dip.
Mix it Thoroughly: Stir the mixture well before serving to combine all the flavors.
Serve at Room Temperature: Serve the dipping oil at room temperature for the most aromatic flavor and dippable texture.
Fresh Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, not pre-grated Parmesan, for the ideal flavor and texture.
Extended the Storage: To extend the shelf life of your bread dipping oil, leave out the fresh garlic. You can add it just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs provide a more vibrant and zesty flavor. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so you will need to use less and adjust to taste.

Is this bread dipping oil recipe gluten-free?

The bread dipping oil itself is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. However, to keep the entire dish gluten-free, ensure you serve it with gluten-free bread.

Can I make this bread dipping oil ahead of time?

Yes, making the bread dipping oil a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to serve it.

If you enjoyed this bread dipping oil recipe, take a peek at some more crowd-pleasing appetizers like these:

If you try this Bread Dipping Oil, let me know what you think! Rate and review this recipe in the comments below. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag me on Instagram @lenaskitchenblog!