Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful addition to your next meal? Look no further! This Italian bread dipping oil recipe is the perfect accompaniment to crusty bread, grilled vegetables, or even as a simple salad dressing. It's incredibly easy to make, using readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or impressive dinner parties. Get ready to elevate your meal with this delicious and aromatic homemade dipping oil!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (the best quality you can find!)
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Combine ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – you might want more garlic, oregano, or pepper flakes depending on your preference.
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Rest and meld flavors: Cover the bowl and let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a couple of hours. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a more complex and delicious dipping oil.
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Serve: Just before serving, give the oil a gentle stir. Pour into a small bowl or a shallow dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately with your favorite crusty bread, grilled vegetables, or alongside a simple pasta dish.
Tips for the Best Italian Bread Dipping Oil:
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Use high-quality olive oil: The flavor of your dipping oil heavily relies on the quality of your olive oil. Investing in a good extra virgin olive oil will make a significant difference.
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Adjust seasonings to your taste: Don't be afraid to experiment with the seasonings! Add more or less garlic, herbs, or red pepper flakes to suit your palate. You can also try adding other herbs like rosemary or thyme.
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Make it ahead: This dipping oil can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
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Variations: Get creative! Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, a sprinkle of sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor, or some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 2g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This simple Italian bread dipping oil is a fantastic addition to any meal. It’s quick, easy, healthy, and incredibly delicious – a true example of homemade cooking at its best. Perfect as a quick dinner idea or for impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!