Dinner

Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes) Recipe

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)

ByJack Voss October 12, 2025October 12, 2025

Jump to Recipe

If you love gathering around the table with friends or family and savoring every bite, this Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes) will become your new favorite companion. It’s a luscious blend of fruity olive oil, tangy balsamic vinegar, fragrant herbs, savory olives, and a lovely kick of fresh garlic and parmesan. What’s amazing is how quickly it comes together—just ten minutes to bring a simple yet epic flavor explosion that transforms any loaf of bread into an irresistible treat. Trust me, once you dip into this mix, you’ll be hooked.

Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes, the magic happens with just a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one in this recipe plays a starring role, whether adding depth, brightness, or a pleasing texture to the bread dipping oil.

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil: The silky, fruity base that carries all the flavors beautifully.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Adds a sweet-tart zing that wakes up the oil.
2 tablespoons parsley leaves (finely chopped): Fresh and herbaceous for a burst of green brightness.
2 tablespoons basil leaves (finely chopped): Sweet and aromatic, adding Italian flair.
2 tablespoons Castelvetrano olives (chopped): Mild and buttery olives that give a creamy texture.
2 tablespoons Kalamata olives (chopped): Bold and tangy, balancing the richness.
1 clove garlic (grated): Provides a subtle spicy warmth without overpowering.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: Earthy and slightly minty, grounding the flavors.
¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt (or more to taste): Enhances every note and adds a satisfying crunch.
¼ cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Sharp and nutty, melting gently into the oil.
Fresh warm bread (for serving): The perfect vehicle to scoop up all that glorious oil.

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

Step 1: Combine Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar

Start by pouring the extra virgin olive oil into a shallow bowl, then drizzle the balsamic vinegar evenly on top. This layering lets the vinegar gently mingle with the olive oil, setting the foundation for your dipping oil’s bright, tangy character.

Step 2: Add Fresh Herbs and Olives

Finely chop the parsley, basil, Castelvetrano, and Kalamata olives, then stir them into the bowl. These ingredients bring color, texture, and a vibrant blend of fresh and savory flavors that will make every dip exciting.

Step 3: Incorporate Garlic, Oregano, and Salt

Grate the garlic clove directly into the mixture, then sprinkle in the dried oregano and flaky sea salt. These aromatic additions create layers of warmth and earthiness, balancing the oil’s richness beautifully.

Step 4: Fold in Freshly Grated Parmesan

Just before serving, add freshly grated parmesan cheese to the mixture and stir well. The cheese enriches the dipping oil with a creamy, nutty note that perfectly complements the herbs and olives.

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

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle a few torn basil leaves or a small handful of chopped olives over the top just before serving. A light dusting of grated parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a beautiful touch and a bit of visual excitement.

Side Dishes

This dipping oil pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread like a fresh baguette or rustic sourdough. It also complements antipasto platters, charcuterie boards, or alongside roasted vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stylish twist, serve the bread dipping oil in small individual bowls or ramekins so each guest gets their own flavorful combo. You can also drizzle it over sliced heirloom tomatoes or roasted artichokes for a quick, elevated appetizer that dazzles on the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover bread dipping oil, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days as the fresh herbs and parmesan shine brightest when fresh. The flavors may meld and intensify overnight, so a refreshing stir before serving is recommended.

Freezing

Freezing this dipping oil is not ideal because the olive oil can change texture and fresh ingredients may lose their brightness. For the freshest taste, prepare only what you need or store leftovers as described above.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat your bread dipping oil. Simply bring it to room temperature and give it a gentle stir. Serving it warm isn’t necessary as the flavors are perfectly balanced cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use other types of vinegar?

Absolutely! While balsamic vinegar provides a sweet and rich note, you can experiment with red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar for slightly different flavor profiles that also work wonderfully.

What bread works best for dipping?

Fresh, crusty bread such as a baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough is ideal because their chewy interiors and crunchy crusts soak up the oil beautifully without becoming soggy too quickly.

Can I make this bread dipping oil vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative, nutritional yeast, or toasted finely ground nuts for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How can I adjust the flavor if it’s too strong or salty?

If the oil tastes too intense, add a bit more olive oil to mellow it out. If it’s too salty, omit or reduce the sea salt next time and compensate with extra fresh herbs or olives for flavor.

Is it better to use fresh or dried herbs?

Fresh herbs are preferred here because they provide brightness and vibrant color, which really lifts the dip. You can use dried herbs in a pinch, but reduce the quantity since they’re more concentrated.

Final Thoughts

This Bread Dipping Oil (Ready in 10 Minutes) is such a delightful, fuss-free way to turn ordinary bread into a crave-worthy experience. It’s fresh, flavorful, and just the perfect little recipe to keep on hand for impromptu gatherings or quiet nights in. I encourage you to try it soon—your taste buds will thank you.