Description
This Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Bread Dip is a flavorful and aromatic appetizer that combines extra virgin olive oil with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, fresh herbs, and a tangy balsamic vinegar finish. Perfect for dipping crusty bread, it’s a savory treat that brings Mediterranean-inspired flavors to your table with ease.
Ingredients
Scale
Olive Oil Mixture
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon Maldon salt
Cheese and Veggies
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- ¼ cup chopped castelvetrano olives
Herbs and Vinegar
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped basil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Serving
- Bread for serving (crusty bread like baguette or ciabatta recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the Olive Oil Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, finely chopped shallot, grated garlic, and red chili flakes. Stir well to blend the flavors and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to mellow the shallot and garlic’s pungency.
- Add Cheese and Vegetables: Add the grated parmesan, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped castelvetrano olives into the olive oil mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all ingredients.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs and Vinegar: Add the chopped parsley and basil into the blend, then pour in the balsamic vinegar. Stir well to combine all elements, allowing the acidity of the vinegar to balance the richness of the olive oil and cheese.
- Season the Dip: Sprinkle the teaspoon of Maldon salt over the mixture and give it one final stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more chili flakes or salt to preference.
- Serve with Bread: Transfer the dip to a serving dish and offer alongside slices of crusty bread. Encourage diners to dip generously and enjoy the rich, tangy, and herbaceous flavors.
Notes
- For best flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Castelvetrano olives provide a mild and buttery olive flavor; substitute with green olives if unavailable.
- Grating the garlic rather than mincing it helps release more flavor into the oil.
- Allowing the mixture to rest for a short time enhances the melding of flavors.
- Serve at room temperature for optimal taste.
Keywords: Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Dip, Bread Dip, Appetizer, Mediterranean Dip, Olive Oil Dip, Garlic Dip