If you want a cozy date-night starter at home, this simple bread-dipping oil will transport you to an outdoor table at your favorite Italian spot—without leaving your kitchen. This Olive Oil and Herb Bread Dip combines high-quality extra virgin olive oil, a touch of good balsamic vinegar, chopped fresh herbs and plenty of garlic for a rich, fragrant dip that’s perfect with crusty bread.
Olive Oil and Herb Bread Dip
There’s a restaurant nearby that I love for pasta, but the real draw is their crusty bread with herb-infused olive oil. This recipe recreates that simple pleasure at home: fresh herbs, excellent olive oil, garlic and a splash of balsamic. It’s easy to make and impressive to serve.
You can make this with 100% freshly chopped herbs, or use high-quality refrigerated herb tubes or tubs for convenience—these keep the fresh-herb brightness much better than fully dried pantry herbs. If you use refrigerated herb pastes, reduce the salt in the finished dip until you taste it, since some prepared herb products include salt. Avoid using fully dry herbs if you want the most vibrant flavor.
The method is intentionally simple: chop, mix, let rest briefly, then serve. If you have the time, letting the oil sit for an hour helps the garlic and herbs infuse and smooths the flavors, but the dip is delicious right away as well.
You need more PASTA in your life.
Recipe Shopping List
You probably already have most of these on hand. For precise quantities, see the recipe card below.
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil
- Fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Garlic
- Balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Crusty French bread or similar
Try with our Traeger Garlic Bread
How To Make This Recipe
This dip is quick to prepare and requires minimal equipment. Follow the step-by-step instructions in the recipe card below while you cook.
- Prep – Finely chop fresh herbs and mince garlic as small as possible for the best texture. Avoid garlic paste from jars if you can—fresh garlic gives brighter flavor.
- Mix – Combine quality extra virgin olive oil, herbs, garlic and red pepper flakes in a shallow bowl. Add a small drizzle of balsamic if you like a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- Let sit – Allow the mixture to rest for up to an hour to let the flavors meld. If you’re short on time, it’s fine to serve immediately.
- Serve – Spoon the oil over torn pieces of crusty bread, or use slices of naan, focaccia or ciabatta. Pair with salads, pasta or grilled vegetables.
Try a Red Wine Sangria!
Serve this with…
- Homemade Alfredo
- Caesar Salad
- Lasagna
- Cajun Chicken Pasta
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Bread Dipping Oil
Restaurant-style bread dip made with fresh herbs, garlic and quality olive oil. It’s easy to prepare and elevates any loaf of crusty bread. Serve it as an appetizer or alongside pasta and salads for a true Italian-inspired meal.
5 minutes
5 minutes
Ingredients
- ½ cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar, if desired
- Crusty French bread or similar, for serving
Instructions
- Place the olive oil in a shallow bowl. Add chopped basil, parsley, red pepper flakes and the minced garlic.
- Stir gently to combine, tasting and adjusting seasoning. If you want a touch of acidity and sweetness, add a small drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
- Spoon the mixture over torn or sliced bread just before serving, or serve the oil in a small dish and dip the bread into it.
- Use within a couple of hours for the best flavor, or refrigerate for longer storage. Bring back to room temperature before serving if chilled.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6
Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 193
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 66mg
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 1g
Nutrition data is an estimate. If you require accurate values for medical reasons, consult a trusted nutrition resource.
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