If I’m at a restaurant and the server brings me a bread basket, I’m pretty excited.

And if it’s warm bread and it comes with salted butter oil or dipping oil…well, I’m in trouble.

There’s nothing quite like the simple pleasure of dipping warm, crusty bread into a flavorful oil blend.

But you don’t have to be at a restaurant to enjoy the simplicity of this precursor to your meal.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, a bread dipping oil with balsamic vinegar and olive oil is a delicious and versatile appetizer.

In this blog post, I’m sharing a delicious and easy appetizer recipe that brings together the best flavors of Italy with a touch of creativity. Let’s dive in and learn how to create the perfect dipping oil!

Ingredients for the Best Bread Dipping Oil

To make the best bread dipping oil, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Extra virgin olive oil: A good olive oil is the base of this recipe. A good quality olive oil will give this simple dip the best flavor.
Balsamic vinegar: Just a splash!
Fresh garlic cloves: Fresh is best!
Kosher salt or sea salt: Just a pinch of salt is perfect for this recipe.
Black pepper: Again, a pinch will do!
Red pepper flakes: Optional, for a bit of heat
Fresh herbs: Fresh herbs are essential here, but you can definitely use dried herbs in a pinch.
Parmesan cheese: This gives it a sharp, salty flavor.
Balsamic glaze: This is also optional, for added sweetness)
Cherry tomatoes: 1/2 cup, halved (optional, for extra flavor and color)

Tips for Making the Perfect Bread Dipping Oil

High-Quality Ingredients: The key to a great dipping oil is using high-quality, fresh ingredients. Extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar are the stars of this recipe, so be sure to choose the best you can find. I do not recommend using an olive oil blend. Fresh garlic, herbs, and optional additions like Parmesan cheese and cherry tomatoes will elevate the flavor.
Balance Your Oil and Vinegar: In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The ratio can be adjusted to taste, but starting with 1/2 cup of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar provides a balanced flavor profile. This combination is the foundation of your dipping oil.
Add Aromatic Garlic: Mince the fresh garlic cloves and add them to the oil and vinegar mixture. Garlic adds a robust, aromatic quality that pairs perfectly with the richness of the olive oil and the tangy sweetness of the balsamic vinegar.
Seasoning for Flavor: Sprinkle in kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the overall flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. These seasonings will bring out the best in your dipping oil.
Enhance with Optional Ingredients: For an extra layer of flavor, grate some Parmesan cheese over the mixture. The salty, nutty taste of Parmesan complements the other ingredients beautifully. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, drizzle in some balsamic glaze. Adding cherry tomatoes will not only boost the flavor but also add a pop of color to your dish.
Room Temperature: Ensure the mixture is at room temperature before serving.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The mixture can be refrigerated for a few days.

Optional Ingredients for Bread Dipping Oils

The list of ingredients above is just a suggestion. Here are some additional ingredients to jazz up your bread oil:

Italian seasoning
Garlic powder or dehydrated garlic
Fresh rosemary
Fresh basil
Dried herbs

Serving Suggestions

Bread dipping oil is best enjoyed with a variety of fresh breads. My favorite place to get fresh bread is my local bakery, but most grocery store breads will work too! Here are some suggestions:

Fresh baguette: For a classic choice, opt for a French baguette with a crispy crust and soft interior.
Warm crusty bread: Any artisanal bread with a chewy texture will work well.
Sourdough bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough pairs wonderfully with the dipping oil.
Ciabatta bread: This is my favorite bread for dipping. Its porous structure soaks up the oil and vinegar mix perfectly.

Ways to Serve the Dipping Oil

With Fresh Bread: Serve with a variety of fresh breads such as:
- Fresh baguette
- Warm crusty bread
- Sourdough bread
- Ciabatta bread
Accompanied by Cheese: Pair with cheeses like:
- Parmesan cheese
- Fresh mozzarella
- Goat cheese
With Fresh Vegetables: Use as a dip for fresh vegetables such as:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber slices
- Bell pepper strips
- Carrot sticks
Garnished with Extras: Enhance with additional toppings like:
- Halved cherry tomatoes
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or rosemary
- Sliced olives
As a Bruschetta Base: Spread on toasted bread and top with:
- Diced tomatoes
- Fresh basil
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze

Other Uses for the Dipping Oil

Salad Dressing: Whisk in a bit more vinegar to taste and use as a simple, flavorful salad dressing.
Marinade: Use as a marinade for meats, such as chicken or beef, for added flavor.
Pasta Sauce: Toss with pasta for a quick and easy sauce. Add some grated cheese and fresh herbs for a complete dish.
Drizzle on Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle over roasted vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or asparagus before serving.
Pizza Topping: Drizzle over pizza just before serving to add a burst of flavor.
Sandwich Spread: Use as a spread for sandwiches or paninis to add extra taste and moisture.

Health and Nutritional Information

Olive oil and balsamic vinegar are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Extra virgin olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Balsamic vinegar contains acetic acid, which can improve digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels. Together, these ingredients make for a heart-healthy addition to your diet.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a simple meal at home, this bread dipping oil with balsamic vinegar and olive oil is a must-try. The combination of rich olive oil, tangy balsamic vinegar, fresh garlic, and herbs creates a flavorful and versatile dip that pairs perfectly with a variety of breads.

I encourage you to experiment with the optional ingredients to find your perfect flavor balance. Share your creations with us on social media and let us know what you thought of our recipe. I love seeing your variations and experiences!