Simple Olive Oil and Herb Dip
A classic and incredibly easy dipping oil for bread, featuring high-quality extra virgin olive oil infused with fragrant dried herbs like oregano and basil. Ready in just two minutes, it's the perfect start to any meal.
For 4 servings
2 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Mix the dipping oil
- b.In a small, shallow bowl, pour the extra virgin olive oil.
- c.Add the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the oil.
- d.Stir gently with a small spoon until all the herbs are evenly distributed.
- e.For best flavor, let the dip sit for at least 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the herbs to infuse the oil.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Serve
- b.Serve in the bowl with slices of warm, crusty bread like 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.
- 1The quality of your olive oil is key here. Use a high-quality, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- 2If you have fresh herbs, you can use them! Finely chop about 2 tablespoons of fresh oregano and basil to replace the dried herbs.
- 3For a tangy twist, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar just before serving.
- 4This dipping oil can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- 5Feel free to add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese for a nutty, savory addition.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Use a low-sodium salt substitute and ensure the olive oil is cold-pressed for maximum antioxidants.
quickQuick
This recipe is already very fast. To make it even quicker, use 1 tablespoon of a pre-made Italian herb blend instead of individual herbs.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the red pepper flakes to remove any spiciness. You can also add a pinch of parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor kids 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 and herbs contain powerful antioxidants that help protect your body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Simple and Unprocessed
This dip is made with simple, whole ingredients, avoiding the preservatives and artificial additives found in many store-bought dips and dressings.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it can be very healthy. 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 for a bread dip than creamy or butter-based options.