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Fresh Bread Dipping Oil Recipe Easy Homemade with Herbs and Parmesan

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This easy homemade bread dipping oil combines extra virgin olive oil, herbs, garlic, and parmesan for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing appetizer. Perfect for pairing with crusty bread, it’s quick to make and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or Italian seasoning blend)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, or substitute lemon juice)
  • Crusty fresh bread (ciabatta, baguette, sourdough, or artisan loaf) for serving

Instructions

  1. Measure out 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil into a small mixing bowl.
  2. Finely grate 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese. Mince 2 cloves of garlic. Chop 2 tablespoons fresh parsley.
  3. Pour the olive oil into the bowl. Add the minced garlic and grated parmesan cheese. Whisk gently until the cheese starts to blend into the oil.
  4. Sprinkle in dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley. Stir until evenly distributed.
  5. Add kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Drizzle in balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, if using, and stir gently.
  7. Cover the bowl and let the oil sit for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  8. Pour the mixture onto a shallow serving dish or plate. Swirl the oil and sprinkle extra parmesan on top if desired.
  9. Serve with slices or cubes of crusty bread.
  10. If the oil separates or thickens, whisk again or add a splash of olive oil. Taste and adjust as needed.

Notes

Let the oil rest for 5–10 minutes for best flavor. Use freshly grated parmesan and fresh garlic for maximum taste. Adjust herbs and spices to your liking. For vegan, skip parmesan or use nutritional yeast. For gluten-free, serve with gluten-free bread or veggie sticks. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature and stir before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: bread dipping oil, olive oil dip, Italian appetizer, parmesan, herbs, easy recipe, party food, homemade, vegetarian, gluten-free option