1. Home
  2. Recipes
  3. Garlic Herb Bread Dip

Garlic Herb Oil Dip

Featured in Quick and Easy Appetizers.

Simple and quick dipping oil with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan that tastes like a restaurant favorite.
Pin it Share it Send it Print it Jump To Recipe
Emily Watson
Updated on Mon, 10 Mar 2025 03:27:13 GMT
Best Dip with Olive Oil Pin it
Best Dip with Olive Oil | thefamilycooks.com

Experience authentic Italian flavors with this classic garlic and herb olive oil dip. Made with premium extra virgin olive oil, fresh aromatic herbs, and perfectly toasted garlic, this dip transforms crusty bread into a restaurant-worthy appetizer.

This traditional recipe captures the essence of Italian bread service, with each ingredient carefully selected to create the perfect balance of flavors. The technique comes from years of perfecting the classic method used in trattorias across Italy.

Key Ingredients

  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Select premium quality for best flavor
  • Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic, finely minced
  • Fresh Herbs: Basil, oregano, and thyme
  • Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated for optimal taste
  • Sea Salt: Coarse or fine grain
  • Dried Italian Herbs: For additional depth

Preparation Method

Step 1:
Mince garlic into fine, even pieces
Step 2:
Warm pan over medium heat
Step 3:
Add olive oil and heat until just shimmering
Step 4:
Add minced garlic to oil
Step 5:
Cook until garlic turns golden
Step 6:
Remove from heat immediately
Step 7:
Choose an appropriate serving dish
Step 8:
Arrange fresh herbs in dish
Step 9:
Pour warm garlic oil over herbs
Step 10:
Top with Parmesan and fresh oil
Garlic Herb Oil for Bread Pin it
Garlic Herb Oil for Bread | thefamilycooks.com

Best Breads for Dipping

Choose hearty, crusty breads like ciabatta, sourdough, or rustic Italian loaves. Their sturdy texture and neutral flavor provide the perfect canvas for the seasoned oil.

Presentation Tips

Arrange the dip alongside Mediterranean accompaniments like marinated olives, roasted peppers, and fresh mozzarella for an authentic antipasti spread.

Customize Your Blend

Adjust herbs and seasonings to create signature variations while maintaining the classic oil-to-herb ratio for consistent results.

This recipe represents generations of Italian cooking tradition, perfected through careful attention to ingredient quality and preparation method.

Garlic Herb Oil for Bread Pin it
Garlic Herb Oil for Bread | thefamilycooks.com

A timeless appetizer that brings restaurant quality to your table, this bread dipping oil combines simplicity with sophisticated flavor. Perfect for everything from casual dinners to special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long will this dip stay fresh?
It keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge if stored in a tightly sealed container.
→ Can I replace fresh herbs with dried ones?
You sure can! Use just a third of the amount since dried herbs pack more punch.
→ Do I have to add balsamic vinegar?
Not at all. It adds a tangy taste, but the oil is delicious even without it.
→ What types of bread work best with this oil?
Crusty breads like sourdough, focaccia, or a classic Italian loaf are fantastic for this.
→ Is it okay to make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely. Letting it sit for a bit helps the flavors blend even better.

Garlic Herb Bread Dip

A savory mix of fresh herbs, roasted garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese that pairs perfectly with warm bread.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
5 Minutes
Total Time
15 Minutes

Category: Appetizers

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 6 Servings (1 cup dipping oil)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Golden Garlic Base

01 2 tablespoons of high-quality olive oil
02 3 tablespoons of finely minced fresh garlic

→ Fresh Herb Mix

03 3 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
04 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh basil
05 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, minced
06 ¼ cup of a premium extra virgin olive oil, preferably cold-pressed

→ Seasonings

07 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (optional—it adds a unique kick!)
08 ¼ teaspoon of coarse sea salt
09 1 teaspoon of a mixed Italian herb blend
10 ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes (if you’re not into heat, leave it out)
11 ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 01

Heat up your olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. When it's warm, toss in that minced garlic and cook it until the edges start turning an appetizing golden-brown color. Keep an eye on it—garlic browns fast! Once done, pull it off the heat.

Step 02

Use a shallow bowl or small plate for this step. Combine the fresh basil, rosemary, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, Italian herb blend, and chili flakes, if you’re using them.

Step 03

Pour the olive oil and that golden garlic mixture over the herb blend. Stir everything together well. If you’re adding it, drizzle the balsamic vinegar for an extra touch of flavor.

Step 04

Pair this with warm crusty bread, pizza crusts, or pita bread for dipping. Giving it a few minutes will let all the flavors come together for an even tastier experience.

Notes

  1. The flavors pop even more after letting the oil sit for a bit.
  2. Store leftovers in the fridge, but let them warm up to room temperature before serving. They’ll keep fresh for about a week.

Tools You'll Need

  • Small frying pan for sautéing garlic
  • A shallow bowl or small plate for serving
  • Measuring spoons for accurate portions
  • Sharp knife to chop up all your herbs

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • This has dairy in it because of the Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 147
  • Total Fat: 14 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 4 g
  • Protein: 1 g