Garlic Olive Oil Dip with Herbs and Crushed Red Pepper: A Flavorful Journey
This Garlic Olive Oil Dip with Herbs and Crushed Red Pepper is more than just a recipe; it’s a cherished memory from my childhood. I remember sitting at my grandmother’s kitchen table, the aroma of garlic wafting through the air as she prepared this simple yet delightful dip. It was always served with warm, crusty bread, and every bite was a reminder of the love and warmth that filled her home. This dip has become a staple in my own kitchen, a way to connect with my roots and share a piece of my heritage with friends and family.
What Makes It Special
There are several reasons why this dip stands out:
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dip that feels gourmet.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and crushed red pepper creates a flavor profile that complements a variety of dishes.
- Quick to Prepare: This dip can be whipped up in under 10 minutes, making it perfect for unexpected guests.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the herbs and spice levels to suit your taste.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Get Cooking
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In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic and olive oil. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Add the chopped parsley, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes to the bowl. Stir well to combine.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the crushed red pepper if you prefer more heat.
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Transfer the dip to a serving dish and drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for presentation.
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Serve with warm, crusty bread or fresh vegetables for dipping.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra kick, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
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Let the dip sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors even more.
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Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme for a unique twist.
Perfect Pairings
- Crusty baguette or ciabatta bread
- Fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers)
- Cheese platter with assorted cheeses
- A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This dip can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving.
The Heart of the Dish
This Garlic Olive Oil Dip with Herbs and Crushed Red Pepper is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. It reminds me of the importance of gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories, and enjoying good food. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to tweak the ingredients, share your variations, and let me know how it turns out. Happy dipping!
Garlic Olive Oil Dip With Herbs and Crushed Red Pepper
Ingredients
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crusty baguette or ciabatta bread
- Fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers)
- Cheese platter with assorted cheeses
- A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Pour the olive oil over the herb mixture and stir well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the dip sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the dip in a bowl alongside crusty bread, vegetable sticks, and cheese.
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