Description
Mediterranean olive oil dip mingles robust flavors from Italy, delivering a simple yet luxurious starter perfect for sharing. Fresh bread becomes an elegant canvas for rich, herbal olive oil blended with aromatic herbs and spices.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- ½ cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 loaf crusty bread (French baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced or grated)
Herbs and Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Additional Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Butter or olive oil for warming bread
Instructions
- Craft a vibrant aromatic base by mixing extra virgin olive oil with minced garlic, creating a foundation of intense flavor profiles. Gently incorporate dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to enhance the oil’s complexity.
- Elevate the dip’s depth by sprinkling red pepper flakes for a subtle heat, then season with a delicate balance of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to accentuate the Mediterranean essence.
- Integrate finely grated Parmesan cheese into the oil mixture, allowing the cheese to disperse and create a rich, nuanced texture. Optional: drizzle balsamic vinegar for an additional layer of tangy sophistication.
- Let the infused oil rest for several minutes, enabling the herbs and spices to harmonize and release their aromatic compounds, intensifying the overall flavor profile.
- Preheat the oven to a gentle 350F, preparing to transform ordinary bread into a crisp, golden accompaniment. Select a rustic loaf and slice it into manageable pieces.
- Lightly brush bread slices with a thin coat of olive oil, ensuring each piece receives a delicate, glistening sheen that promises a golden, crispy exterior.
- Transfer bread to a baking sheet and warm in the oven for 5-7 minutes, monitoring carefully to achieve a perfectly toasted texture without burning.
- Transfer the infused olive oil to a shallow serving dish, creating an inviting presentation. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a bright, verdant touch.
- Serve the warm, crusty bread alongside the aromatic olive oil dip, inviting guests to indulge in this simple yet luxurious culinary experience.
Notes
- Customize the herb blend by using fresh herbs for more vibrant flavors and increased aromatic intensity.
- Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil to elevate the dip’s overall taste and richness.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal spice tolerance, starting with a small amount and gradually increasing.
- Experiment with different bread types like rustic sourdough, ciabatta, or whole grain for varied textures and complementary flavors.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg