Name: Garlic Olive Oil Dip Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1-2 cloves garlic, very finely minced; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Salt, to taste; Fresh chopped parsley (optional); Bread for dipping (focaccia recommended)

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Introduction

This Garlic Olive Oil Dip is a simple yet flavorful appetizer perfect for any occasion. Combining fragrant garlic, spicy red pepper flakes, and rich parmesan, it pairs wonderfully with fresh bread for a delightful starter or snack.

A white bowl filled with a yellow-green mixture of olive oil layered with finely chopped herbs like parsley and bits of red chili flakes floating on top, giving a speckled look; a golden toasted bread cube with a small sprig of rosemary is partially dipped into the oil at the center, surrounded by more soft white bread cubes around the bowl, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1-2 cloves garlic, very finely minced
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper & salt to taste

Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Bread for dipping (we love focaccia!)

Instructions

Step 1: Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano to a medium-sized shallow bowl or plate.

Step 2: Grate the parmesan cheese directly into the bowl, then pour the extra virgin olive oil over the top.
Step 3: Stir everything together with a spoon until well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil if desired.

Step 5: Serve immediately with pieces of bread for dipping and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a milder garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic cloves before mincing.
Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dip.

Use fresh oregano instead of dried for a more vibrant herbal note.
Swap parmesan for pecorino romano for a sharper taste.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The olive oil may solidify when chilled—let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. This dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be gently stirred and served slightly chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A white shallow bowl holds a mixture that looks like a sauce or dressing with a golden-yellow olive oil base, finely minced white garlic pieces, and small red chili flakes scattered throughout. The texture is oily and slightly chunky from the garlic and spices. In the bowl, a silver spoon with an ornate handle rests partly submerged in the mixture. Around the bowl on a white marbled surface, there are whole garlic cloves and chunks of pale yellow cheese placed casually. A metal grater and a small wooden bowl with chili flakes are also partly visible near the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What bread works best for dipping?

Fresh, crusty bread like focaccia, baguette, or ciabatta works great to soak up the flavorful oil and cheese mixture.