Mediterranean Olive Oil Dip
A restaurant-style, herb-infused bread dipping oil packed with rich, savory Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for entertaining or a quick appetizer.
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Prep time: 5 mins
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Servings: 4
Ingredients
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1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (high quality)
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2 tbsp Sun-dried tomatoes, finely minced
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1 clove Garlic, grated or minced
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1/2 tsp Dried oregano & Dried basil
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1/4 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes
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1 tbsp Parmesan cheese, finely grated
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
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Combine: On a shallow plate or small bowl, add the minced sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, herbs, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan.
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Pour: Pour the extra virgin olive oil over the herb mixture.
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Rest & Serve: Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes to infuse. Serve with warm crusty bread (like Ciabatta or Baguette).
Notes & Tips
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Oil Quality: Since olive oil is the star, use a cold-pressed, high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
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Fresh vs. Dried: Dried herbs actually work best here as they absorb the oil well without making the dip soggy.
Benefits & Nutrition
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Benefit: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and powerful antioxidants from the extra virgin olive oil and garlic.
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Nutritional Info (Per serving): ~260 kcal | Fats: 28g | Carbs: 2g | Protein: 1g
Q&A
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Q: Can I make this in advance?
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A: Yes! Mix the herbs and oil up to 3 days ahead. Store at room temperature. If adding cheese, add it right before serving.
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Q: What else can I use this for?
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A: It doubles as an excellent marinade for chicken, a toss-in sauce for warm pasta, or a drizzle over roasted vegetables.
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