Herb‑Infused Olive Oil Dip

🫒 Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip

Ingredients

Base

• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil (good quality matters here)

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried rosemary (crushed)

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• ½ tsp salt (sea salt or flaky salt)

• ¼ tsp fresh cracked black pepper

Flavor Boosters (optional but 🔥)

• 1–2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated

• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan or Pecorino

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze

• Pinch of smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Warm the oil (optional but recommended)
   Gently warm olive oil over low heat for 2–3 minutes—do not simmer or fry.

2. Add herbs & seasonings
   Remove from heat. Stir in dried herbs, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and garlic.

3. Rest & infuse
   Let sit 10–15 minutes so flavors bloom.

4. Finish
   Stir in Parmesan, lemon zest, or balsamic if using.

5. Serve
   Pour into a shallow bowl. Serve with warm crusty bread, focaccia, or ciabatta.

🍞 Best Breads for Dipping

• Artisan sourdough

• Focaccia

• Baguette slices

• Garlic knots

• Pita or naan

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes—but:

• Triple the amount (1 tsp dried = 1 tbsp fresh)

• Finely chop

• Use immediately (fresh herbs shorten shelf life)

Q: How long does this keep?

• Room temp: Up to 2 hours (for serving)

• Fridge: 3–4 days (without fresh garlic)
  ⚠️ If using fresh garlic, refrigerate and use within 48 hours.

Q: Why does my olive oil look cloudy?

Totally normal—olive oil solidifies slightly when cool. It clears at room temp.

Q: Can I make this spicy?

Absolutely:

• Extra red pepper flakes

• Chili crisp

• A drizzle of hot honey

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after 30–60 minutes of resting. Bring to room temp before serving.

Q: What if it tastes bitter?

• Olive oil may be too strong—add a splash of lighter oil

• Balance with Parmesan, lemon zest, or balsamic

Q: Can I turn this into a vinaigrette?

Yep:

• Add 1–2 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice

• Whisk before serving

Q: Is this vegan?

Yes—just skip the cheese.