Name: Bread Dipping Oil
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup roasted garlic oil or good olive oil; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 tsp dried parsley; 1 tsp oregano; 2 clove garlic (very finely minced or grated); 2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan; Flaky salt; Fresh cracked black pepper

This bread dipping oil is the easiest, quickest appetizer. Roasted garlic oil or good olive oil gets mixed with balsamic vinegar, fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan and a little red pepper, then left to infuse for a few minutes. Serve this restaurant-style balsamic dipping oil with warm focaccia or crusty bread and watch it disappear.

For a fresh, herby twist, try my Lemon Feta Dill Bread Dipping Oil.

Why You’ll Love This Bread Dipping Oil

Ready in 10 minutes.
Restaurant-style flavor at home.
Pantry ingredients.
Perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients for Bread Dipping Oil

The Oil

Roasted garlic oil or good olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

The Flavor

Fresh basil, red pepper flakes, dried parsley, oregano, finely minced garlic, freshly grated Parmesan, flaky salt and black pepper.

Dietary note: This dipping oil is vegetarian and gluten free. Serve with gluten-free bread or veggies.

How to Make Bread Dipping Oil

Step 1: Combine

In a shallow bowl, combine the oil, balsamic, basil, red pepper flakes, garlic, Parmesan and seasonings.

Step 2: Infuse

Stir gently and let sit 5 to 10 minutes so the flavors infuse.

Step 3: Serve

Serve with warm focaccia, sourdough or a crusty baguette.

Carly’s Expert Tips

Use your best oil. It is the star.
Let it sit so the garlic and herbs infuse.
Grate the garlic for the smoothest flavor.
Warm the bread for the best experience.

Make It Your Own

Herby: Add fresh rosemary or thyme.
Sun-dried tomato: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
Spicy: Add Calabrian chili.
Lemon: Add lemon zest.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Mix the dipping oil up to 1 day ahead. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

What to Serve With Bread Dipping Oil

Serve with focaccia, sourdough or a baguette, plus Roasted Tomato Goat Cheese Dip for a party spread.

Storing and Reheating

Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Let it come to room temperature before serving.

What People Ask About Bread Dipping Oil

Can I use dried basil?

Yes. Use 1 teaspoon dried in place of fresh.

What bread is best for dipping oil?

Focaccia, sourdough or a crusty baguette.

How long does dipping oil last?

Up to 3 days in the fridge.

What is roasted garlic oil?

Olive oil infused with roasted garlic.