Description

This Irresistibly Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Bread Dip combines rich Extra Virgin Olive Oil with aromatic shallots, garlic, and a vibrant mix of sun-dried tomatoes, Castelvetrano olives, fresh herbs, and a touch of balsamic vinegar. Perfect for serving with crusty bread as a flavorful appetizer or snack, this dip is quick to make yet packed with complex, savory flavors that complement any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Dip Ingredients

1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (High-quality is preferred)
1 medium Shallot (Can be replaced with red onion)
2 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic preferred)
1/2 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes (Adjust based on spice preference)
1/4 cup Grated Parmesan (Pecorino Romano can be a substitute)
1/2 cup Chopped Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Opt for oil-packed for better flavor)
1/3 cup Chopped Castelvetrano Olives (Green olives can be swapped)
2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (Fresh is ideal)
2 tablespoons Chopped Basil (Fresh is ideal)
1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar (Red wine vinegar is a suitable alternative)
1 teaspoon Maldon Salt (Regular sea salt can be used)

Serving

1 loaf Bread for Serving (Crusty bread like Italian, sourdough or focaccia is best)

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Instructions

Prepare the Aromatics: Finely chop the shallot and mince the garlic cloves to ensure their flavors infuse well into the olive oil, providing a flavorful base for the dip.
Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, chopped shallot, minced garlic, red chili flakes, grated Parmesan, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped Castelvetrano olives, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and balsamic vinegar until well incorporated.
Season the Dip: Add the Maldon salt and stir the mixture again. Taste and adjust seasoning or chili flakes to your preference to balance the flavors perfectly.
Rest the Dip: Allow the dip to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes so the flavors meld and intensify.
Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and pair it with crusty bread such as Italian, sourdough, or focaccia. Use the bread to scoop and enjoy the rich and savory dip.

Notes

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for a richer and smoother texture.
Fresh herbs like parsley and basil elevate the freshness of the dip.
Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to control the heat level.
This dip can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving.
Pair with crusty breads for the best dipping experience.