INTRODUCTION
Bread Dipping Oil and Herbs is a simple, tasty mix of olive oil, fresh garlic, and dried herbs. It brings warm bread to life. You can make it in minutes with items you likely have at home. This healthy version uses extra virgin olive oil for good fat and herbs for flavor instead of heavy butter. A cold drink like an apple and ginger cooler can pair well when you serve this at a light dinner or snack.
This recipe is easy to scale. You can make a small dish for two or mix a larger bowl ahead for a party. It makes a lighter option to butter and spreads, and it is great for meal prep when you plan simple, balanced meals for the week.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is fast, healthy, and full of flavor. The oil and herbs add taste without a lot of sugar or processed ingredients. This recipe is a good fit for many eating styles: gluten free when you choose gluten-free bread or serve with vegetables, and heart healthy thanks to olive oil. It is also a lighter option to heavy butter or cheese spreads.
It fits simple meal plans. Use it as a starter with a salad, or a dip for raw veggies. It can be a good choice for weight loss if you control your portions and use it to add flavor rather than extra carbs. The mix is low in sugar and can be diabetic-friendly when paired with non-starchy vegetables or whole-grain bread.
If you like warm drinks with snacks, try a warm treat like a cozy gingerbread latte at a holiday table. It is a small treat that pairs nicely with this simple dip.
HOW TO MAKE Bread Dipping Oil and Herbs
This section walks you through making the dip. You will need only a few tools and fresh herbs if possible. The steps are short and clear. Use the mortar and pestle to bring out strong, fresh flavors. A small bowl keeps it neat for the table.
Follow the simple STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS below to finish the dip in about 5 to 10 minutes. You can also make it ahead and keep in the fridge for a few days.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Mortar and pestle (or a small bowl and the back of a spoon)
- Small mixing bowl or dish for serving
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board for fresh garlic and herbs
- Spoon for mixing and serving
- Airtight container or jar for storage
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 2 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary or dried
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Fresh ground pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil or more as needed
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
Using a mortar and pestle tool, add half of the ingredients and crush all ingredients together until the garlic is all ground and mixed well with the other herbs. Repeat the process for the remaining herbs. Transfer mix to a small dish or bowl and add olive oil. Serve with fresh bread (French bread or baguette recommended).
After you make the dip, taste it and adjust salt or pepper. You can let it rest 10 minutes for the flavors to blend. If you do not have a mortar and pestle, mince the garlic fine and stir well in a small bowl. Chop fresh rosemary very small so it releases flavor.
HOW TO SERVE Bread Dipping Oil and Herbs
Serve the dip in a shallow bowl with a small plate of bread on the side. For portion control, measure one to two tablespoons per serving. A tablespoon of oil has around 120 calories, so you can enjoy the flavor while keeping calories in check.
For a lighter option, offer cut raw vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or celery. These give crunch and are low calorie. When you serve bread, choose smaller pieces or whole-grain bread for extra fiber.
Pair the oil with a green salad and a lean protein for a balanced meal. That makes a simple, high protein meal if you add grilled chicken or a can of tuna on the side. This mix is also great for dipping gluten free bread if you need a gluten free option.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Bread Dipping Oil and Herbs
Store the dip in an airtight jar or container in the fridge. It will keep fresh for up to 5 to 7 days. Always use a clean spoon to scoop out what you need to keep it safe.
Do not freeze olive oil mixes in the jar as olive oil can change texture after freezing. If you want to freeze the herb mix without oil, combine the herbs and garlic, place in an ice cube tray with a splash of water or broth, freeze, then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. When you need a quick dip, thaw a cube and stir into fresh oil. This method helps preserve fresh herb flavor and is great for meal prep.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Simple starter: Serve with a bowl of the oil and thin slices of French bread or baguette. Keep pieces small to control portions.
- Healthy side: Pair with a mixed green salad, lemon vinaigrette, and grilled fish for a light, heart healthy meal.
- Low carb option: Use the oil as a dip for celery, cucumber, and radish to keep carbs low.
- High protein option: Offer grilled shrimp, chicken skewers, or baked tofu for dipping to make a high protein meal.
You might also enjoy a sweet coffee touch after the meal. A splash of flavored creamer can be nice; try a small cup with a hint of gingerbread coffee creamer if you like seasonal flavors.
VARIATIONS
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Healthier version: Use less oil and more herbs and lemon juice. Replace half the olive oil with low-sodium vegetable broth for fewer calories. This keeps taste but lowers fat and total calories. This is a lighter option and can be good for weight loss plans when used in portion control.
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High-protein or low-carb version: Serve the oil with protein dippers instead of bread. Grilled chicken strips, roasted chickpeas, or seared halloumi cheese make it into a high protein meal. For low carb, use raw vegetables or baked cheese crisps to keep carbs down.
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Air fryer or oven-baked version: Make croutons or toasts to dip instead of plain bread. Cut whole grain bread into small cubes, toss with a small amount of the herb mixture and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until crisp. For oven-baked crisps, slice baguette thin, brush lightly with the oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes. This gives a crunchy bite and works well for parties.
FAQs
Q: Is this bread dipping oil healthy?
A: Yes. When used in moderation, extra virgin olive oil is a heart healthy fat. The herbs add flavor without added sugar. Keep portion sizes small to maintain a balanced meal.
Q: Can I make this diabetic-friendly?
A: Yes. The mix itself has no sugar. Serve it with raw vegetables, lean proteins, or small portions of whole-grain bread to keep the meal diabetic-friendly.
Q: How long will the dip last in the fridge?
A: Store in an airtight container for 5 to 7 days. If you see clouding, off smell, or mold, discard it. Always use a clean spoon.
Q: Can I use other oils?
A: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor and health. For a different taste, try avocado oil for a mild, heart healthy option, but avoid oils that may not pair well with herbs.
Q: Does olive oil need to be warmed before serving?
A: No. Serving at room temperature keeps the oil smooth and the herbs fresh. Warm oil can intensify flavors, but do not heat high or for long as it can change taste and nutrients.
Q: Can I add other herbs or spices?
A: Yes. Fresh basil, thyme, or parsley work well. Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Keep the balance so the garlic and oil still shine.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Bread Dipping Oil and Herbs
Make the herb mix ahead by chopping or crushing the garlic and herbs and storing them in a small sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you want to serve, stir the herbs into oil and let rest 10 minutes.
For meal prep, portion the oil into small jars for each meal. This is great when you plan lunches or dinners for the week. Label each jar with the date and use within 5 days.
If you want to save more time, prepare the herb-only cubes in an ice tray as noted in the Storage section. Pull a cube out on the day you need it, stir into a half cup of oil, and you have fresh flavor in seconds. This technique is great for busy evenings and makes this dip a true great for meal prep option.
Bread Dipping Oil and Herbs
Ingredients
Method
- Using a mortar and pestle (or a small bowl), combine half of the minced garlic and herbs and crush them together until well blended.
- Repeat the process with the remaining half of the garlic and herbs.
- Transfer the crushed mixture to a small bowl and add the olive oil.
- Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed, then let rest for about 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- If you do not have a mortar and pestle, finely mince the garlic and stir everything together in a bowl.