This Italian Bread Dipping Oil comes together in minutes with simple pantry staples. Rich and aromatic, it's perfect for dipping crusty slices of Italian Semolina Bread or crusty baguettes in. Add a hint of citrus for a fresh twist and an appetizer everyone will reach for.
Why You'll Love This Italian Dipping Oil Recipe
Italian bread dipping oil is made with a simple blend of olive oil, herbs, and spices. The combination creates a delicious and irresistible dip, and is a great way to start a meal, or it can be served as a snack or light lunch.
This recipe is popular all year round, but it's especially popular during the summer months when people are looking for light and refreshing appetizers for outdoor entertaining.
Ingredients Overview
Use a good quality Extra Virgin olive oil. The quality of the olive oil will make a huge difference in the flavor of the seasoned dipping oil. Look for a light, fruity olive oil for vibrant taste that will complement your bread.
- Garlic - Minced garlic, or garlic granules.
- Basil - Dried.
- Oregano - Dried.
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Sea salt
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Fresh, fruity, light green olive oil.
- Aged, Balsamic Vinegar - Get a good, well aged balsamic vinegar because it's thicker. An alternative that is less expensive is to use Balsamic Glaze.
Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How To Make Italian Bread Dipping Oil
Italian Bread Dipping Oil is a delicious and easy-to-make starter. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this zesty oil dip and can be enjoyed with a variety of breads and crackers.
Use the best quality extra virgin olive oil that you can get within your budget. If you have an olive oil shop that lets you taste, by all means visit. You will be amazed and the wide range of flavors the humble oil has.
Add The Herbs To A Bowl
- Combine the minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, dried red pepper flakes, and sea salt into a bowl.
Add The Olive Oil
- Pour the extra virgin olive oil in the bowl of herbs and spices, and blend with a whisk.
Our Italian seasoning substitute, pizza seasoning blend or even our spaghetti seasoning mix is a perfect blend of Italian herbs and can be used in place of the individual spices in this Italian dipping oil recipe.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. There are many different combinations that you can try, so have fun and see what you like best.
Finish With Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic vinegar is water based, so it won't combine with the olive oil and herbs. After you drizzle a tablespoon into each serving bowl, it will pool at the bottom, with little beads of dark liquid.
The tangy combination of the balsamic vinegar and fresh fruity olive oil and herbs is simply irresistible with warm, crusty bread dipped in it!
- Pour the olive oil and herbs mixture into small, shallow bowls. Then, if desired, divide the balsamic vinegar between the bowls of oil so that each has a small puddle of balsamic vinegar in the center. Serve and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This zesty olive oil bread dip can be served warm or at room temperature. It's traditionally served with warm garlic breadsticks, can also be served with vegetables, such as carrot, celery, or cucumbers sticks.
Substitutions and Variations
Here are a few delicious variations using this recipe for Italian bread dipping oil as a base:
- Add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the bread dipping oil blend.
- For a sweeter dipping oil, add a teaspoon of honey.
- Add snipped sun-dried tomatoes to the dipping oil.
- Use a variety of different types of bread, such as baguette, focaccia, or pita bread triangles.
Tips for Success
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. There are many different combinations that you can try, so have fun and see what you like best.
- Adjust the seasonings in this bread dipping oil to your taste.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Storage Options
- This dipping oil can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- When you are ready to serve, simply bring it to room temperature and let it sit for about 30 minutes before serving.
- This Italian bread dipping oil can also be reheated in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
Related Recipes
- Heirloom Tomato and Bread Salad
- Lemon Blackberry Bread
- Sourdough Naan Bread
- Italian Charcuterie Board
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use other types of oil, such as vegetable oil or canola oil. However, olive oil will give the best flavor.
Reheat this Italian dipping oil in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for about 15 seconds.
Yes, you can use fresh herbs in this Italian bread dipping oil recipe. Snip them small and refrigerate any leftovers for no more than 3 days.
You can use your favorite herbs! Or try our Italian Seasoning Substitute, or our Greek Herb blend.
Easy Appetizer Recipes
Get The Recipe!
Italian Bread Dipping Oil
Equipment
- Small Whisk
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon basil dried
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Combine the minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, dried red pepper flakes, and sea salt into a bowl.1 teaspoon garlic, 1 teaspoon basil, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Pour the extra virgin olive oil in the bowl of herbs and spices, and blend with a whisk.¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Pour the olive oil and herbs mixture into small, shallow bowls and then divide the balsamic vinegar between the bowl of oil so that each shallow bowl of oil and herbs has a small puddle of balsamic vinegar in the center.¼ cup balsamic vinegar
Notes
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. There are many different combinations that you can try, so have fun and see what you like best.
- Adjust the seasonings in this bread dipping oil to your taste.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
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