Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
Introduction
This bread dipping oil is a simple yet flavorful appetizer that brings together the rich taste of extra virgin olive oil and tangy balsamic vinegar, enhanced with herbs and a touch of spice. It’s perfect for serving alongside fresh baguette slices for an easy, crowd-pleasing starter.

Ingredients
- 1 cup good quality extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Pinch flake salt
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh grated Parmigiano Reggiano
- 2 good quality baguettes
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of flake salt. Stir well to blend all the flavors together.
- Step 2: Sprinkle the fresh grated Parmigiano Reggiano over the top of the mixture. Serve the dipping oil alongside sliced baguette pieces for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- Use freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano for the best flavor and texture.
- For a fresher herbal note, substitute dried oregano with fresh chopped basil or rosemary.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- Try adding a splash of lemon juice or zest for a bright twist.
Storage
Store any leftover dipping oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The olive oil may solidify when chilled; let it come to room temperature before serving and stir gently to recombine. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated slightly if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use another type of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar, but balsamic provides a nice sweetness that complements the oil and cheese well.
Is it necessary to use Parmigiano Reggiano?
While Parmigiano Reggiano adds rich, nutty flavor, you can substitute with other hard cheeses like Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano if desired.
PrintBread Dipping Oil Recipe
This Bread Dipping Oil is a simple and flavorful appetizer featuring a rich blend of extra virgin olive oil, tangy balsamic vinegar, and aromatic herbs and spices, topped with freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Perfect for serving alongside crusty baguettes, it makes a delightful and easy dip for entertaining or casual snacking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 to 8 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dipping Oil
- 1 cup good quality extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Pinch flake salt
- 2–3 Tablespoons fresh grated Parmigiano Reggiano
Bread
- 2 good quality baguettes, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the dipping oil: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of extra virgin olive oil with 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar. Stir in ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of flake salt until well blended.
- Add the cheese topping: Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano over the top of the oil mixture to add a savory and rich flavor.
- Serve with bread: Arrange sliced baguettes on a platter alongside the dipping oil. Guests can dip the crusty bread slices into the flavorful oil mixture and enjoy.
Notes
- Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and richness.
- Freshly grate the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese just before serving to maximize aroma and taste.
- You can customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately after assembling for the freshest taste, as the bread may become soggy if dipped too long.
- Toast the baguette slices lightly if preferred for added crunch.
Keywords: bread dipping oil, olive oil dip, balsamic vinegar dip, appetizer, Italian dip, Parmigiano Reggiano dip, easy appetizer

