Name: Garlic Olive Oil Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1-2 cloves garlic, very finely minced; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; Freshly ground black pepper & salt to taste; Fresh chopped parsley; Bread for dipping (we love focaccia!)

Jump to Recipe

There’s just something magical that happens when you put out a bowl of Garlic Olive Oil Dip at a table. Suddenly, everyone gathers ‘round, tearing off hunks of bread, scooping up those fragrant bits of garlic and herbs bathed in lush olive oil. The nutty parmesan, the gentle heat from red pepper, and the bright splash of fresh herbs make each dip feel like a little celebration. This easy yet bursting-with-flavor starter is my ace-in-the-hole for warm, welcoming nights with friends or family, and I guarantee it’ll become one of those dishes you crave again and again.

Garlic Olive Oil Dip Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Garlic Olive Oil Dip is in its simplicity—each ingredient shines, and together they create something truly craveable. Even the humble details like freshly grated cheese or your best olive oil will elevate the dip, so gather each with care.

Garlic (1–2 cloves, very finely minced): The unmistakable star, raw garlic infuses the oil with bold, pungent warmth—use the freshest you can find!
Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon): Just a sprinkle gives the dip a playful, tingly heat on the back of your tongue.
Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Dried is perfect here, adding that classic Italian-herb vibe with a touch of earthiness.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Grate it right before using for maximum flavor; it melts into the oil and adds the dreamy savoriness everyone craves.
Extra virgin olive oil (¼ cup): Use your favorite—this is the backbone of the dip, bringing silky texture and robust richness.
Black pepper & salt (to taste): Season with a gentle hand so the flavors of the garlic and oil really shine.
Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish): A pop of green on top for both freshness and a pretty finish.
Bread for dipping (we love focaccia!): Tear big, rustic pieces; chewy or crusty bread soaks up the dip and creates the perfect bite.

How to Make Garlic Olive Oil Dip

Step 1: Prep Your Aromatics

Start by grabbing a medium-sized, shallow bowl or plate—something wide enough that everyone can easily dip in. Mince your garlic as finely as you possibly can; the smaller the pieces, the better they’ll meld into the oil without overpowering each bite. Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano directly into your bowl.

Step 2: Add Cheese and Olive Oil

Grate the parmesan cheese fresh over the bowl right on top of the aromatics. This way, those little snowy shards fall beautifully and will start to dissolve into the oil. Next, pour in the extra virgin olive oil, letting the stream run over all the ingredients. Things are starting to look (and smell) irresistible already!

Step 3: Stir and Season

Use a spoon to gently mix everything together until the garlic, herbs, and cheese are evenly distributed. Now’s the time to season—add your salt and several grinds of black pepper, then taste with a piece of bread. Adjust as needed until every dip is just right for you.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs

If you like a little color and extra freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top just before serving. Sometimes I use fresh basil instead for a sweet, summery twist. Either way, you get a burst of flavor and a dip that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 5: Serve with Plenty of Good Bread

Bring the bowl to the table alongside a basket of your favorite bread—focaccia, baguette, or a rustic sourdough are all fantastic. Invite everyone to dive in while the dip is at its freshest. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears!

How to Serve Garlic Olive Oil Dip

Garnishes

A finishing touch goes a long way here. Fresh parsley is a classic, but don’t hesitate to add a dusting of extra parmesan, sliced basil, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Play with color and flavor to suit the vibe of your table—after all, the beauty of Garlic Olive Oil Dip is how endlessly customizable it can be.

Side Dishes

I love pairing this dip with an anti-pasto platter: think olives, roasted red peppers, and a wedge of creamy cheese. Simple leafy green salads also play nicely, cutting through the richness with a crisp bite. For a heartier option, add cured meats or marinated artichokes for a delightful, Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, pour portions into small ramekins so each guest gets their own dip (no double dipping worries!). Or, swirl the Garlic Olive Oil Dip on a large platter and fan slices of warm bread around it, family-style. I’ve even drizzled it over roasted veggies or used it as a finishing touch on grilled chicken—the possibilities are endless when you start thinking beyond simple dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Garlic Olive Oil Dip left (I dare you!), transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days. Just remember, some of the cheese and herbs might settle at the bottom—give it a good stir before serving again.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze the dip, I don’t really recommend it—the texture of the olive oil and cheese can become grainy, and the fresh herbs will lose their color and vibrancy. This is truly a dish best enjoyed fresh or within a day or two.

Reheating

Garlic Olive Oil Dip doesn’t need to be reheated, but if the olive oil solidifies in the fridge, just take it out about 30 minutes before serving. Let it come to room temperature, give it a gentle mix, and you’re back to dipping bliss! If you want it a little warmer, set the bowl over some warm water for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?

You can, but freshly grated parmesan melts more easily into the oil and has a brighter, more complex flavor that really shines in Garlic Olive Oil Dip. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated works—but try to hunt down a high-quality version.

Is there a way to make it less spicy?

Absolutely! Just cut the red pepper flakes in half or omit them entirely. The tingle of heat is a lovely accent, but Garlic Olive Oil Dip is just as delicious with only the savory, garlicky goodness.

What’s the best bread for dipping?

You honestly can’t go wrong—fresh focaccia, crusty Italian bread, ciabatta, or even a chewy baguette are all perfect for scooping up every last bit. The heartier and chewier, the better, so it can soak up every drop of all that infused oil.

How can I make it vegan?

Simply skip the parmesan cheese or swap in a vegan alternative. The dip will still be bursting with garlic and herb flavor, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a hint of cheesiness if you’re missing it.

Can I add other herbs or flavors?

Definitely! Garlic Olive Oil Dip loves customization—try adding chopped fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme. You could even swirl in a bit of lemon zest or sun-dried tomatoes for a punchy twist.

Final Thoughts

You’re truly in for a treat with this Garlic Olive Oil Dip—simple to make, utterly delicious, and guaranteed to bring people together at your table. Give it a try and watch as it disappears in no time. Here’s to more bread-dipping, laughter, and making memories!

Garlic Olive Oil Dip Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 24 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Garlic Olive Oil Dip is a simple and flavorful appetizer that comes together in minutes. With the sharpness of garlic, the heat of red pepper flakes, and the richness of Parmesan cheese, it’s perfect for serving with crusty bread.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dip:

1–2 cloves garlic, very finely minced
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper & salt to taste

For Garnish:

Fresh chopped parsley

For Serving:

Bread for dipping (we love focaccia!)

Instructions

Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and oregano to a medium-size shallow bowl or plate. Grate parmesan directly into the bowl, then pour the olive oil over top. Stir everything together with a spoon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add a little fresh chopped parsley on top, if desired.
Serve with pieces of bread for dipping and enjoy! Serves 4.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Mediterranean