Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Bread Dip
Description
Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Bread Dip is a rich, aromatic, and herb-infused dipping oil loaded with bold Mediterranean flavors. Sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes combine with garlic, herbs, olive oil, and optional cheese to create a restaurant-quality dip that pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread, focaccia, or toasted baguette. It’s quick to prepare, requires no cooking, and tastes even better as it sits.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time (recommended): 10–15 minutes
Total Time: 10–25 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
½ cup extra virgin olive oil (good quality preferred)
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed or rehydrated), finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)
Optional Flavor Enhancers
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (adds tang)
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshness boost)
For Serving
Crusty bread, baguette, or focaccia (warm)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Sun-Dried Tomatoes
If using dry sun-dried tomatoes, soak in warm water for 5–10 minutes until soft.
Drain and finely chop.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a small bowl, add olive oil, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, basil, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Add Extras (Optional)
Stir in parsley, Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, or lemon juice if using.
Step 4: Rest for Flavor
Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes so flavors blend well.
Step 5: Serve
Pour into a shallow serving dish and serve with warm bread for dipping.
Pro Tips
Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
Let the dip rest longer (up to 1 hour) for deeper taste.
Slightly warm the olive oil (not hot) before mixing for stronger herb infusion.
Add chopped olives for a briny Mediterranean twist.
Variations
Spicy Version: Add extra chili flakes or chopped chili.
Cheesy Version: Increase Parmesan or add crumbled feta.
Herb Fresh Version: Use fresh basil and oregano instead of dried.
Garlic Lovers: Roast garlic before adding for sweeter flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does this bread dip last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
2. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes — making it a few hours ahead actually improves flavor.
3. What bread works best?
Crusty breads like baguette, sourdough, ciabatta, or focaccia work best.
4. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — simply skip the Parmesan cheese.
5. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead?
Sun-dried tomatoes are recommended because they provide concentrated flavor. Fresh tomatoes will give a different taste and texture.
6. Why is my olive oil solid after refrigeration?
Olive oil naturally thickens or solidifies when chilled — just let it return to room temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving — Approximate)
Calories: 170 kcal
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 1 g
Sodium: 120 mg