Olive Oil and Herb Dip
A classic restaurant-style bread dip featuring high-quality extra virgin olive oil infused with garlic, oregano, and a hint of red pepper. Perfect for serving with crusty bread as an elegant and simple appetizer.
For 4 servings
Combine the ingredients
- Pour the extra virgin olive oil into a small, shallow bowl suitable for dipping.
- Add the garlic powder, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the oil.
- Whisk gently with a small fork or whisk until all the herbs and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the oil.
Let the flavors meld
- Allow the dip to sit at room temperature for at least 10-15 minutes before serving.
- This resting period allows the dried herbs to rehydrate and infuse their flavor into the oil.
Serve the dip
- Give the dip one final stir before serving.
- Serve with warm, crusty bread such as a baguette, ciabatta, or focaccia for dipping.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use a high-quality, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil. The oil is the star of the show!
- 2If you have fresh herbs, finely chop some parsley, basil, or rosemary and add them for a brighter flavor.
- 3For a tangy twist, add a splash (about 1 tablespoon) of balsamic vinegar to the dip.
- 4You can make a larger batch and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The flavors will deepen over time.
- 5Serve on a small plate or in a shallow bowl to make dipping easy for everyone.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley for extra vitamins. Serve with whole-wheat bread for more fiber.
quickQuick
If you're short on time, you can skip the 10-minute resting period, but the flavor will be milder.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the red pepper flakes to make a non-spicy version that kids will love.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil is packed with monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which is known to support heart health and reduce inflammation.
Source of Antioxidants
High-quality olive oil contains powerful antioxidants that help protect the body against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it can be very healthy in moderation. Extra virgin olive oil is a great source of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which are beneficial for heart health. It's a much healthier choice than creamy, dairy-based dips.
