I never knew something as simple as oil and herbs could steal the spotlight at dinner—until I served this Bread Dipping Oil. The aroma of dried herbs blooming in rich olive oil, paired with the satisfying crunch of a fresh baguette, instantly transports me to a cozy Italian trattoria. It’s one of those recipes that takes almost no effort, yet brings restaurant-style elegance to the table.

Whether I’m hosting friends or just looking for a quick starter while the pasta simmers, this dipping oil is my go-to. I love how endlessly customizable it is; it can be bold with garlic and chili flakes or mellow with basil and oregano. And once that bread hits the plate—soft on the inside, slightly toasted on the outside—it’s game over. The bowl is usually wiped clean within minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Bread Dipping Oil
- Quick to make: No cooking required—just mix and serve.
- Flavorful and fragrant: A blend of herbs, spices, and quality olive oil creates incredible depth.
- Pairs with anything: Ideal with warm bread, but also delicious drizzled on veggies, pasta, or even grilled meats.
- Customizable: Adjust the herbs, spice level, or garlic to fit your mood or menu.
What Kind of Olive Oil Should I Use for Bread Dipping Oil?
When it comes to making Bread Dipping Oil, the olive oil you choose makes a huge difference. I always recommend using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. It should have a smooth, fruity, slightly peppery finish—nothing bitter or flat. This is the backbone of the recipe, so it’s worth using the good stuff.
If you want to go even more gourmet, try cold-pressed or single-origin olive oils. These often have more complex flavor notes and really elevate the experience. Avoid light or pure olive oils—they’re too neutral and won’t carry the herbs as well.
Options for Substitutions
One of the best things about Bread Dipping Oil is how easy it is to adjust based on what’s in your pantry:
- No fresh garlic? Use garlic powder or roasted garlic for a sweeter, mellow flavor.
- Don’t like it spicy? Leave out the red pepper flakes or swap with paprika for a mild touch.
- Missing herbs? Use an Italian seasoning blend in place of individual herbs—it still brings a rich, layered flavor.
- Out of balsamic vinegar? A splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice adds brightness too.
- Gluten-free or keto? Serve this oil with gluten-free bread or keto crackers instead.
Feel free to play with the flavors—it’s hard to go wrong with olive oil and herbs.
Ingredients for This Bread Dipping Oil
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
This is the heart of the recipe. A good-quality olive oil brings richness, depth, and a velvety mouthfeel that carries all the herbs beautifully.
Garlic (minced or grated)
Fresh garlic adds a bold, aromatic punch that infuses the oil with irresistible flavor. You can tone it down or roast it for a sweeter taste.
Dried Basil
Basil brings a soft, slightly sweet herbal note that balances out the garlic and spice.
Dried Oregano
Oregano offers a deeper, earthy flavor that gives this oil its Italian essence.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
These bring heat and a subtle smokiness. You can adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like things.
Dried Rosemary
A few pinches of rosemary add a woodsy aroma and a bit of texture—don’t skip this if you love a bold herbal bite.
Salt & Black Pepper
Essential for pulling all the flavors together. A pinch of flaky salt and freshly cracked pepper enhances everything.
Optional: Balsamic Vinegar or Parmesan Cheese
A splash of balsamic adds brightness, while finely grated Parmesan gives the oil a savory, umami kick.

Step 1: Choose Your Serving Dish
Start with a shallow bowl or small plate. Something with a wide surface works best so the herbs and oil can spread out and coat each bite of bread evenly.
Step 2: Pour the Olive Oil
Add about ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil to your dish. It should just coat the bottom with enough depth to soak the herbs without drowning them.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs
Sprinkle in 1–2 cloves of minced garlic, ½ teaspoon each of dried basil, oregano, and rosemary, along with a pinch of red pepper flakes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Stir and Let It Sit
Gently stir the mixture with a spoon. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes so the dried herbs can bloom and the garlic infuses into the oil.
Step 5: Optional Add-Ins
If using, drizzle in a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar or sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese for extra depth. Stir again gently.
Step 6: Serve with Fresh Bread
Serve immediately with slices of crusty bread like a baguette or ciabatta. Make sure to swirl each bite through the herbs at the bottom for full flavor.
How Long to Cook the Bread Dipping Oil
No cooking required! This is a no-heat recipe, which makes it incredibly fast and convenient. Once mixed, the oil is ready to serve immediately—but allowing it to sit for 5 to 10 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully. If you have time, letting it rest even longer (up to 30 minutes) will deepen the taste.
Tips for Perfect Bread Dipping Oil
- Use quality olive oil: This isn’t the time to use your budget bottle—flavor matters.
- Bloom the herbs: Let the herbs soak in the oil for a few minutes before serving to bring out their full aroma.
- Crush dried herbs: Lightly crushing rosemary and oregano between your fingers helps release their oils.
- Balance the flavors: Taste before serving—add more salt, pepper, or garlic as needed.
- Serve at room temperature: Cold oil dulls the flavor. Let it sit out for a few minutes if stored in the fridge.
- Stir before serving: The herbs tend to settle, so give it a quick mix right before dipping.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
- Using low-quality oil: This is the foundation of the recipe. A bland or old olive oil can ruin the flavor entirely.
- Adding too much garlic: While garlic is key, too much raw garlic can overpower the mix and leave a harsh aftertaste.
- Skipping the resting time: Even just 5 minutes helps the herbs release their oils and flavors. Don’t rush it.
- Not seasoning enough: Under-salting will leave the oil tasting flat. Taste and adjust.
- Letting herbs clump: Stir thoroughly so each bite gets a balance of seasoning.
What to Serve With Bread Dipping Oil?
Fresh Baguette
A classic pairing—crusty on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for soaking up every drop.
Ciabatta Bread
Its chewy texture and airy holes are ideal for holding herbs and oil in each bite.
Toasted Sourdough
Adds a slight tang and crunchy texture that plays beautifully with the richness of the oil.
Warm Pita or Flatbread
A softer option that still scoops up oil and herbs beautifully.
Crackers or Crostini
For a crispier, snack-style version, serve the oil with artisanal crackers or homemade crostini.
Roasted Vegetables
Drizzle this oil over roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for an herby finishing touch.
Cheese Board
Use the dipping oil as a flavorful addition to a charcuterie spread—amazing with aged cheeses.
Grilled Meats
A light drizzle over grilled chicken or steak makes for a quick, Mediterranean-style marinade.
Storage Instructions
Bread Dipping Oil is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it if needed. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container or a small glass jar and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. If you added fresh garlic, it’s important to refrigerate immediately to avoid any risk of spoilage or bacteria.
Before using again, let it come to room temperature—the olive oil may solidify slightly in the fridge. Stir well to re-incorporate the herbs and flavors. For longer storage, skip the fresh garlic and stick to dried herbs only.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — about 2 tablespoons)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Note: Nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of bread is best for dipping in this oil?
Crusty breads like baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough work best. They soak up the oil beautifully without falling apart.
Can I make Bread Dipping Oil ahead of time?
Yes! Mix everything (except fresh garlic if you’re storing it for more than a day) and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature before serving.
Is this oil spicy?
It can be! Red pepper flakes add heat, but you can easily adjust the amount or omit them entirely.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely. Just double the quantity, as fresh herbs are milder than dried.
How do I keep the garlic from overpowering the oil?
Use a small amount of finely minced garlic or try roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
The oil itself is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Just pair it with gluten-free bread for dietary needs.
Can I add cheese to this dipping oil?
Yes, Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds a delicious salty kick. Just stir it in before serving.
What else can I use this oil for besides dipping?
It’s amazing drizzled over roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or used as a quick pasta dressing.
Conclusion
Bread Dipping Oil is the kind of recipe that proves simple is often best. With just a handful of pantry staples and no cooking required, it transforms plain bread into something unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a dinner party starter, or just a snack with wine, this oil is a reliable crowd-pleaser that always disappears fast. Try it once, and I guarantee it’ll earn a permanent spot in your kitchen routine.

Bread Dipping Oil
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A quick and flavorful Bread Dipping Oil made with rich olive oil, aromatic herbs, garlic, and a touch of heat. Perfect for serving with fresh bread as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Choose a shallow bowl or small plate for serving.
2. Pour the olive oil into the dish.
3. Add minced garlic, dried herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir the mixture gently.
5. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Add balsamic vinegar or Parmesan cheese if using, and stir again.
7. Serve immediately with fresh, crusty bread.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Bring to room temperature before serving again, and stir well.
For longer storage, omit fresh garlic.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: bread dipping oil, olive oil dip, appetizer