Garlic Olive Oil Dip is a simple yet delicious blend of rich olive oil and fragrant garlic that makes a perfect companion to bread, veggies, or even drizzled over pasta. It’s smooth, flavorful, and has just the right amount of garlic punch to make every bite special.
I love making this dip because it’s so quick to prepare but always impresses guests. A little tip I’ve learned is to gently warm the olive oil with the garlic to let the flavors meld together—it brings out the best taste without overpowering the garlic’s natural aroma. Plus, it’s easy to tweak the garlic amount depending on how strong you like it.
Whenever I serve this dip, I usually place it alongside a basket of crusty bread or some fresh sliced veggies. It’s a favorite starter at our family meals, and everyone seems to enjoy dipping their way through it. It’s one of those simple things that feel a little fancy and make snacking more fun.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Extra virgin olive oil: This is the heart of the dip, offering rich flavor and smooth texture. If you want a lighter taste, try a mild olive oil or even avocado oil as a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dip its bold kick. Mince or grate it finely for the best infusion. If raw garlic is too strong for you, you can lightly roast the cloves first to bring out a milder, sweeter flavor.
Fresh parsley: Parsley adds freshness and a soft herb note. If you don’t have parsley, fresh basil or cilantro can be interesting swaps that bring their own twist.
Crushed red pepper flakes: These add a gentle heat. Feel free to adjust or skip them if you prefer no spice. You could also use a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
How Do You Get the Garlic Flavor Just Right Without It Being Too Harsh?
Garlic can be strong or bitter if used raw in large amounts. To balance this:
- Warm the olive oil gently, not hot—this helps the garlic infuse without cooking it too much.
- Let the dip sit about 10 minutes after mixing, so flavors blend nicely.
- Finely mince or grate the garlic for an even, smooth taste.
- If you want a milder dip, roast the garlic cloves first to soften their sharpness.
These steps help create a dip where garlic is noticeable but smooth, perfect for dipping without overpowering your palate.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Small mixing bowl – perfect for combining garlic, herbs, and spices easily.
- Microplane grater or fine knife – helps you finely mince or grate the garlic for smooth infusion.
- Spoon or small whisk – to mix the olive oil and seasonings evenly.
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl – to gently warm the olive oil without overheating.
- Serving dish or small bowl – nice for presenting the dip alongside bread or veggies.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of lemon juice or zest for a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness.
- Stir in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to add a cheesy, salty twist.
- Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy flavor boost.
- Swap parsley for chopped fresh basil or oregano for a different herb aroma.
Garlic Olive Oil Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3-4 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- Bread, for dipping (e.g., toasted ciabatta or baguette)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to let the flavors blend. So, plan for roughly 15 minutes from start to finish before enjoying this delicious dip.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Flavorful Ingredients:
In a small bowl, combine the finely minced garlic, chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, dried oregano, and sea salt. Stir them together well so all the flavors are evenly distributed.
2. Warm the Olive Oil:
Slowly warm the olive oil by placing it in a small saucepan on very low heat for about 15-20 seconds, or heat it in a microwave-safe bowl for the same amount of time. The oil should be warm to the touch but not hot or smoking—this helps release the flavors of the garlic and herbs without cooking them.
3. Combine and Let Infuse:
Pour the warm olive oil over the garlic and herb mixture. Stir everything thoroughly to blend the flavors. Let the dip sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to allow the oil to absorb the aroma and taste of the garlic and spices.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the garlic olive oil dip with chunks of toasted or fresh crusty bread. It’s also wonderful drizzled over grilled vegetables, pasta, or used as a topping for bruschetta. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving again.
Can I Use Roasted Garlic Instead of Raw Garlic?
Yes! Roasted garlic will give the dip a milder, sweeter flavor. Simply roast the cloves until soft, then mash and mix them with the other ingredients. This is a great option if you prefer a less pungent garlic taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Garlic Olive Oil Dip?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, bring the dip to room temperature and give it a good stir, as the olive oil may solidify when chilled.
Can I Substitute Fresh Herbs for Dried?
Fresh herbs are best for this dip since they provide vibrant flavor and color. If you only have dried herbs, reduce the amount by half as they are more concentrated, and add them during the warming step to help release their flavors.
Is It Okay to Skip the Red Pepper Flakes?
Absolutely! The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, but if you prefer a milder dip, feel free to leave them out or reduce the amount to suit your taste.
