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The Best 5-Minute Restaurant-Style Olive Oil Bread Dip

Close-up of a white bowl containing bright green herbs, chili flakes, and seeds submerged in golden olive oil bread dip.

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Make this easy appetizer that tastes like your favorite Italian restaurant’s bread dipping oil. It uses simple ingredients and comes together in minutes for crusty bread.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced very fine
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Combine the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried rosemary, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt in a small bowl.
  2. Add the extra virgin olive oil to the bowl with the seasonings. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  3. If you are using Parmesan cheese, stir it into the oil mixture now.
  4. Cover the bowl and let the olive oil bread dip sit at room temperature for at least 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, let it sit for 30 minutes or chill for up to 2 hours, then bring back to room temperature before serving.
  5. Pour the seasoned olive oil into a shallow serving dish.
  6. Serve immediately with warm, crusty bread or baguettes. Drizzle a small amount of balsamic vinegar over the oil just before serving, or serve it alongside the dip for guests to add themselves.

Notes

  • Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil; since this is a no-cook recipe, the oil flavor is central to the taste.
  • If you want a Carrabba’s bread dip copycat flavor, focus on the quality of the dried Italian herbs.
  • Warm your bread slightly before serving to enhance the dipping experience.
  • This makes a great party food idea or simple starter for guests.

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