Garlic and Olive Oil Dip

This garlic and olive oil dip offers a simple yet flavorful way to transform everyday ingredients into a delicious appetizer or snack. It’s perfect for impromptu gatherings or quiet evenings when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

I first made this dip at a family barbecue, and it quickly became the unexpected favorite. Now it’s a staple whenever we want something fresh and flavorful without much effort.

Ingredients

• Extra virgin olive oil: ensures a rich, fruity base – choose one with a robust flavor for the best result
• Garlic cloves: provide the essential punch – fresh, firm cloves work best for a bright, sharp taste
• Red pepper flakes: add optional heat – use sparingly or omit depending on your spice preference
• Dried oregano: brings herbal earthiness – pick a brand with vibrant green leaves for freshness
• Dried thyme: adds depth and complexity – select finely ground for even distribution
• Salt: enhances all flavors – sea salt is ideal for a clean finish
• Freshly ground black pepper: offers aromatic warmth – grind fresh for maximum impact
• Fresh parsley: lifted at the end with a burst of fresh color and mild herbaceous flavor
• Crusty bread or fresh vegetables: are great for dipping – go for a sturdy bread with a crunchy crust or crisp seasonal veggies to complement the dip

Instructions

Prepare the Dip:

Gather all ingredients and finely mince the garlic. Chop the fresh parsley and have the dried herbs and spices measured and ready.

Mix Ingredients:

In a small bowl gently stir together the minced garlic red pepper flakes if using dried oregano dried thyme salt and freshly ground black pepper until evenly combined.

Add Olive Oil:

Pour the extra virgin olive oil over the garlic mixture slowly then stir to fully incorporate all the ingredients into a harmonious blend.

Let it Sit:

Allow the dip to rest at room temperature for at least ten to fifteen minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld deeply giving a richer and more balanced taste. For an even stronger flavor leave it to sit for up to an hour.

Garnish:

Just before serving fold in the chopped fresh parsley. This adds a lovely pop of green color along with a fresh bright note.

Serve:

Transfer the dip into a small bowl and serve alongside crusty bread pita chips or fresh vegetables for dipping. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can also be refrigerated briefly if needed.

This dip reminds me of sitting around the kitchen table with my family where the aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air. We would pass the crusty bread back and forth savoring every bite and sharing stories. Garlic is my favorite ingredient here because it carries so much flavor and also brings people together in the most comforting way.

Storage Tips

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before serving let it come to room temperature to bring out the olive oil’s full flavor since cold oil can taste muted. Stir well if any separation occurs.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap dried herbs for fresh if preferred but use about three times the amount of fresh as dried since fresh herbs are less concentrated. Using garlic-infused olive oil in place of raw garlic creates a milder flavor ideal for those sensitive to strong garlic. Adjust red pepper flakes or omit entirely for a no-heat version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dip with thick slices of toasted baguette crunchy pita chips or vegetable sticks like carrots cucumber and bell peppers. It also works beautifully as a sauce for grilled chicken or drizzled over roasted potatoes for extra zing.

Enjoy this simple dip with crusty bread or fresh veggies for a quick, flavorful appetizer.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I adjust the garlic amount for milder flavor?

Yes, you can reduce the number of garlic cloves to suit your taste, making the dip milder or spicier.

→ What herbs work best in this dip?

Dried oregano, thyme, and fresh parsley enhance the depth of flavor, but you can experiment with basil or rosemary as alternatives.

→ How long should the mixture rest before serving?

Letting it sit for at least 10–15 minutes allows flavors to blend; up to an hour brings richer taste.

→ Is this dip suitable for fresh vegetables?

Absolutely, it pairs wonderfully with crunchy vegetables like carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers.

→ Can red pepper flakes be omitted?

Yes, the red pepper flakes are optional and can be left out if you prefer no heat.