Olive Oil Herb Dip with Warm Crusty Bread

A rustic, flavor-packed dip that turns simple bread into something unforgettable!
There’s something irresistibly charming about tearing into a warm piece of crusty bread and dipping it into a golden pool of herby olive oil. This Olive Oil Dip with Warm Bread is inspired by those classic Italian restaurant starters — but made right at home in under 5 minutes!
Infused with fragrant dried herbs, fresh garlic, and a touch of heat, this dip is bold, savory, and just the right amount of fancy. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply indulging in a cozy night in, it’s the kind of appetizer that disappears in minutes (so double the batch if needed!).
Why You’ll Love This Dip
- Ready in 5 minutes — no cooking required
- Packed with Mediterranean flavor — garlic, basil, oregano, rosemary, and a pinch of red pepper
- Perfect with fresh, crusty bread — warm it up for maximum enjoyment
- Customizable — add balsamic vinegar or even a drizzle of honey for a twist
Ingredients
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Freshly baked crusty bread, sliced and warmed
Instructions
1. Combine Herbs & Garlic
In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, crushed rosemary, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and kosher salt. These dry seasonings come together to create a fragrant, flavor-packed blend that infuses the oil beautifully.
2. Add Olive Oil & Cheese
Pour in the extra virgin olive oil, then stir in the Parmesan cheese. The cheese adds a subtle salty, umami richness that really elevates the dip.
3. Optional Balsamic Touch
For a more complex, slightly sweet note, stir in 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar. It’s completely optional — but totally worth a try!
4. Serve with Warm Bread
Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish or small plate. Pair with warm, crusty bread like a baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough. Tear, dip, and enjoy every golden bite!
Recipe Notes
- Make ahead tip: Let the dip sit for 15–30 minutes before serving so the flavors can fully meld.
- Use fresh herbs if available — just triple the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Want a nutty twist? Add a tablespoon of finely chopped toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
- Low dairy option: Omit the Parmesan or swap it with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Recipe Details
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Difficulty: Ridiculously easy
A Little Dip of Heaven
This olive oil herb dip is more than a side — it’s an experience. Pair it with a glass of wine, a cheese board, or simply serve it as an elegant appetizer before pasta night. However you enjoy it, this simple dip brings big flavor to the table.
Tag your creations with #HerbyOliveOilDip — and pass the bread, please!
Buon appetito,
Your Cozy Kitchen Buddy