Description
Mediterranean olive oil dip beckons with rustic charm, inviting taste buds on a culinary journey through Greece’s sun-drenched landscapes. Crusty warm bread and rich, peppery olive oil create a simple yet irresistible appetizer you’ll savor with pure Mediterranean delight.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (118 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- Sliced French bread or Italian baguette, warmed
Herbs and Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 garlic clove, finely minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan (for garnish)
Instructions
- Craft a flavor-packed infusion by blending premium olive oil with an aromatic medley of dried herbs, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, freshly ground black pepper, and sea salt in a serving dish.
- Enhance the depth of the dip with a delicate splash of balsamic vinegar, creating a nuanced taste profile.
- Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and gently toast the bread slices for 5-7 minutes, achieving a delicate golden crispness around the edges.
- Allow the olive oil mixture to rest and meld flavors at ambient temperature, developing a rich, harmonious essence.
- Elevate the presentation by sprinkling finely chopped fresh parsley or delicate shavings of Parmesan cheese atop the dip.
- Serve immediately, inviting guests to immerse warm bread into the fragrant, herb-infused olive oil and savor each luxurious bite.
Notes
- Experiment with different herb blends like Italian seasoning or za’atar for unique flavor profiles.
- Toast whole spices briefly before grinding to enhance their aromatic qualities and intensify the dip’s depth.
- Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil to elevate the overall taste and authenticity of the dish.
- Customize the heat level by adjusting red pepper flakes for spice-sensitive individuals or heat lovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 290 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25.7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg