Olive Oil Bread Dip is a must-have at your next gathering. This classic combination of high-quality olive oil, aromatic herbs, and spices creates a savory dip that’s perfect for enjoying with warm and fresh bread. When I serve it for guests, it’s usually one of the first things to go.
Carrabba’s Bread Dip
This particular version I based on Carrabba’s Bread Dip. Sure, you can stick to olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping bread, but why not kick it up a notch?
breads for dipping in olive oils
Choosing the right bread is essential to fully appreciate an Olive Oil Bread Dip. Ideally, opt for freshly baked, crusty bread varieties. Of course, the best bread for olive oil dip is your favorite no matter what the properties.
Here are some of the best options:
- Ciabatta: With its airy texture and crispy crust, ciabatta is an ideal choice. It soaks up the olive oil while maintaining a light and pleasant bite.
- Baguette: This French classic offers a firm, crunchy crust that pairs beautifully with the dip.
- Sourdough: For a slightly tangy twist, sourdough bread brings a unique flavor that complements the olive oil dip well. This is a perfect option for those who got into Sourdough bread making during COVID.
- Focaccia: If you’re looking for a soft, flavorful bread, focaccia with its hint of rosemary and saltiness is perfect.
No matter which bread you choose, you absolutely must warm it slightly before serving. You’ll thank me later.
For a longer list of options, read my list of best “breads to dip in olive oils“.
Best Olive Oil To Use
Not all olive oils are created equal. For the best results, you’ll want to select a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. As a California girl, my absolute favorite is California Olive Ranch. It’s available nationwide so it should be easy to find at your local store. It’s the same brand I use when making Tomato Confit and Pesto di Basilico.
Here are some good bread dipping olive oil qualities to look for:
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- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO): Choose a cold-pressed, extra virgin variety for its robust, fruity flavor and higher nutritional benefits. Look for labels like “first cold-pressed” to ensure you’re getting a premium product.
- Origin Matters: Olive oils from regions like Italy, Spain, and Greece are renowned for their quality. However, explore other regions such as California or Australia, which produce excellent EVOO as well.
- Flavored Olive Oils: Infused olive oils, such as those with garlic, lemon, or herbs, can add an extra dimension of flavor to your dip. Choose a mild or neutral-flavored oil to avoid overpowering the herbs and spices you’ll be adding.
Recipe Tips and Notes
- Add a Touch of Vinegar: A small splash of balsamic or red wine vinegar can enhance the flavor profile of your dip. It brings a slight acidity that balances the richness of the olive oil.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Enjoy experimenting with different combinations. Traditional Italian herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano are classic choices. However, you can also try roasted garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, sun-dried tomatoes, or freshly grated Parmesan for added complexity.
- Presentation Matters: For an elevated look, serve your dip on a shallow dish or plate with the herbs and spices spread evenly. Arrange the bread slices around the plate for easy dipping.
- Keep It Fresh: Use fresh, high-quality herbs and spices for the best flavor. Avoid pre-ground herbs that may have lost their potency.
- Serve it next to Chicken Margherita or Pesto Chicken for an Italian-themed meal.
Storage Information
Storing your Olive Oil Bread Dip properly is key to maintaining its freshness and flavor. Here’s what you need to know:
- Refrigeration: Olive oil can solidify in the fridge, so it’s best to store leftover dip at room temperature in a cool, dark place for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve the flavor.
- No Direct Sunlight: Olive oil deteriorates quickly in sunlight. Store your dip in a dark glass container or cover it with foil to shield it from light exposure.
- Separate Components: If possible, prepare only the amount you need. While olive oil itself has a long shelf life, herbs and spices mixed into the dip can become less fresh over time. For a fresh taste every time, store olive oil and the seasoning blend separately, mixing them just before serving.
Olive Oil Bread DIp
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- ½ tbsp crushed red pepper
- ½ tbsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1½ tsp garlic powder
- 1½ tsp onion powder
- 1½ tsp coarse sea salt
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic
- extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the oregano, basil, red pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, rosemary, thyme, lemon juice and minced garlic.
- Transfer the mixture to a shallow plate. Drizzle the desired amount of extra virgin olive oil over the mixture and serve.