Last updated on March 25th, 2026
Delicious Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil for the best easy appetizer! Perfect for any gathering, this simple olive oil dip combines crisp buttery olives, aromatic herbs and a little heat to elevate your appetizer table.
You know those flavourful olive oil dips restaurants serve with bread baskets? This is that, but better. And it all comes together in minutes.
Here’s everything you’ll need to make it
- ½ cup (115 grams) extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup (60 grams) balsamic vinegar of Modena
- 1 clove garlic, grated or finely chopped
- 1 oz (28 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 teaspoons (3 grams) fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon (0.5 grams) fresh dill, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon (0.5 grams) dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon (0.5 grams) red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon (2 grams) Diamond Crystal kosher salt (if using Morton’s use half)
- ¼ cup (30 grams) green olives, chopped (I use Castelvetrano)
- Fresh dill to garnish
- Crusty bread
The olive oil is your foundation, so feel free to use your favourite high-quality extra-virgin olive oil with robust, fruity notes. The herbs and seasonings add a mix of savoury flavours, aromatic depth and a pop of colour while the freshly grated Parmesan adds a little delicious saltiness. And of course, the crusty bread is essential for dipping.
Why you’ll love this Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil
- It’s effortless: Simple to prepare, it comes together in under 10 minutes. Just mix and serve!
- Change it up: Whether served as a holiday appetizer, game day snack or as a side at dinner, this dip pairs well with any type of bread (baguette, focaccia, rolls, crostini, crackers or even bread sticks) and it’s completely customizable with your favourite herbs and seasonings.
- Healthy and satisfying: With a rich flavour profile, this dip is packed with heart-healthy fats and immune-boosting properties, making it a delicious as well as nutritious option to serve at your next gathering.
Variations & substitutions
- Adjust seasoning as required: Mix then taste and adjust salt, red pepper flakes, oil or vinegar according to taste.
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary, sage, thyme, cumin or basil would all be delicious here.
- Make it milder: For a less spicy version, leave out the red pepper flakes.
- Storage: Leftover dipping oil will keep well in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to a week. Bring to room temperature and stir before serving.
This simple Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil combines fresh and savoury, salty flavours with a little heat for an unforgettable appetizer, snack or side. An elegant, restaurant-style pairing for your favourite breads!
Try this No-Knead Green Olive and Rosemary Artisan Bread or this Chickpea Tuna Salad with Green Olives next.
If you make this recipe, please tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see!
And of course, feel free to leave any questions, comments or reviews. This is the best place to reach me, and I’d love to hear from you!
Herb and Olive Bread Dipping Oil
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar of Modena
- 1 clove garlic grated or finely chopped
- 1 oz Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon fresh dill, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (if using Morton’s, use half)
- ¼ cup green olives, chopped (I use Castelvetrano)
- Fresh dill to garnish
- Crusty bread
Instructions
- In a small serving bowl, combine extra-virgin olive oil with balsamic vinegar, garlic, Parmesan, parsley, dill, dried oregano, red pepper flakes and salt.
- Stir in chopped olives then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh dill and serve with crusty bread for dipping.
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