Name: Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons parsley leaves, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons basil leaves, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons Castelvetrano olives, chopped; 2 tablespoons Kalamata olives, chopped; 1 clove garlic, grated; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt, or more to taste; ¼ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated; fresh warm bread, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 226 reviews

If you adore starting your meals with something simple yet utterly delicious, then this Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes) Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine rich, fruity extra virgin olive oil perfectly balanced with a splash of tangy balsamic vinegar, fresh chopped herbs, and briny olives all mingling together to create an irresistible dip. It’s quick to whip up, packed with bold flavors, and transforms any warm, crusty bread into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re hosting guests or craving a cozy snack, this easy-to-make bread dipping oil will become your new favorite standby.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large loaf of rustic bread with a light dusting of flour and a golden-crust sits on the bottom left of the image on a white marbled surface. Above it, there are small white bowls with finely grated white cheese, dark soy sauce, chopped green herbs, coarsely chopped green olives, minced garlic, chopped dark olives, mixed dried herbs, and salt. To the right, there is a clear glass measuring cup filled with yellow olive oil. The bowls vary in size and shape, arranged neatly above and to the right of the bread, all resting on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of these ingredients — each one plays an essential role in making this bread dipping oil sing. From the richness of the olive oil to the bright freshness of the herbs, every component adds depth, texture, and color to the final dish.

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil: The star of the show, offering rich, fruity flavor and silky texture that carries all the other ingredients.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Adds a slightly sweet acidity that balances the oil’s richness beautifully.
2 tablespoons parsley leaves, finely chopped: Brings fresh, grassy notes that lighten the dip.
2 tablespoons basil leaves, finely chopped: Adds sweet, aromatic hints that elevate the overall flavor.
2 tablespoons Castelvetrano olives, chopped: Provides a mild, buttery olive flavor and a pop of bright green color.
2 tablespoons Kalamata olives, chopped: Introduces a deeper, savory olive punch and rich purple hues.
1 clove garlic, grated: Infuses the oil with a gentle garlic warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: Offers herbal earthiness that complements the fresh herbs perfectly.
¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt, or more to taste: Enhances all the flavors and adds a delightful crunch if you leave some flakes visible.
¼ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Provides a salty, nutty finish that rounds out the oil and adds a luxurious touch.
Fresh warm bread, for serving: Essential for dipping and soaking up all those vibrant flavors.

How to Make Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes) Recipe

Step 1: Combine the base ingredients

Start by pouring the extra virgin olive oil into a shallow bowl or dish that’s wide enough for dipping. Next, gently drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the top — you want that subtle layering so each dip delivers a perfect balance of flavors.

Step 2: Add the fresh herbs and olives

Finely chop the parsley and basil leaves, then stir them into the olive oil mixture alongside the chopped Castelvetrano and Kalamata olives. These fresh and briny elements bring exciting texture and bursts of flavor, making every bite fascinating.

Step 3: Infuse with garlic and seasoning

Grate a fresh garlic clove right over the mixture for a delicate, fragrant aroma. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and flaky sea salt, adjusting the saltiness to your preference. This is where the oil starts to develop its irresistible Mediterranean character.

Step 4: Finish with parmesan cheese

Finally, grate fresh parmesan cheese evenly on top and give everything a gentle stir. The cheese adds a luscious creaminess and a salty bite that brings all the ingredients together in absolute harmony. Serve immediately alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping.

How to Serve Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes) Recipe

A white bowl sits in the center of a round dark plate on a white marbled surface. Inside the bowl is a mix of olive oil with chopped dark green herbs and small pieces of dark purple olives, creating a shiny, textured layer. A thin wooden spoon rests inside the bowl, partially immersed in the oil and herbs. Around the bowl, torn pieces of crusty bread with a golden-brown crust and soft white inside are scattered casually. Fresh bright green basil leaves are placed near the bread for garnish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make this bread dipping oil even more inviting, sprinkle extra fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil right before serving. You can also add a few whole olives or a light dusting of cracked black pepper to give it a little pizzazz and personalization.

Side Dishes

This dipping oil pairs beautifully with a simple charcuterie board filled with cured meats, cheeses, and fresh veggies. It also works as a delicious appetizer alongside soups, salads, or grilled fish. Basically, it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that makes every meal feel special.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the bread dipping oil in a rustic ceramic bowl placed on a wooden board with an assortment of breads — from crusty baguette slices to soft focaccia or even garlic knots. For a fun twist, drizzle a little extra balsamic reduction on top or scatter some toasted pine nuts for crunch and extra flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover bread dipping oil, store it in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator. The flavors may intensify overnight, which is often a good thing, but remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

Because this bread dipping oil is made mostly from olive oil and fresh ingredients, freezing is not ideal as it can affect the texture and flavor, especially of the cheese and fresh herbs. It’s better enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

Reheating

If chilled, simply take the container out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes. Give it a gentle stir before serving to recombine any separated ingredients and get that perfect dip-ready consistency back.

FAQs

Can I use other types of vinegar in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with red wine vinegar or even sherry vinegar, but balsamic vinegar is recommended for its slightly sweet and rich flavor that pairs beautifully with olive oil and herbs.

What types of bread work best for dipping?

Crusty breads like baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough work wonderfully because their firm texture soaks up the oil without getting soggy. Warm bread enhances the overall aroma and flavor experience.

Is this bread dipping oil suitable for vegans?

This recipe contains parmesan cheese, which is not vegan. To make it vegan-friendly, simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a plant-based parmesan alternative.

How long does the bread dipping oil stay fresh?

Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. Always smell and taste before serving to ensure the flavors have remained vibrant.

Can I add spice to this bread dipping oil?

Absolutely! A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil can bring a nice kick if you enjoy a little heat with your dips.

Final Thoughts

This Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes) Recipe is one of those magical little dishes that transforms simple ingredients into something spectacular. It’s effortless, full of flavor, and so comforting — perfect for sharing with friends or savoring during a quiet evening. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this easy dip whenever warm bread is around. Give it a go and watch how it turns any gathering into a celebration of good taste!