Ingredients
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1/2 cup)
- Fresh Garlic (2 cloves, finely minced)
- Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon)
- Dried Basil (1 teaspoon)
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon)
- Fresh Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon)
- Kosher Salt (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste)
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon, or to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Mince the garlic cloves very finely, then add them to a shallow serving dish or bowl along with the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Step 2: Pour the extra virgin olive oil slowly over the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon to ensure the herbs are fully submerged and the seasonings begin to dissolve in the oil.
- Step 3: Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the oil mixture, stirring once more to incorporate the acidity. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper flakes if a stronger flavor is desired.
- Step 4: Allow the dip to rest at room temperature for at least 15–20 minutes prior to serving. This crucial rest time allows the fresh garlic and dry herbs to fully hydrate and infuse their essential oils into the olive oil base.
- Step 5: Serve the Mediterranean Olive Oil Dip immediately with slices of fresh, crusty artisan bread, warm pita bread, or serve drizzled over feta cheese.
Notes
- For optimal freshness and safety, store leftovers refrigerated for up to 2 days, but always bring the dip completely back to room temperature before serving to restore the liquid texture and flavor profile.
- Never attempt to microwave this olive oil dip; if the oil has solidified after chilling, simply let it sit on the counter for 30–60 minutes until the oil is fully liquid again and the complex flavors are restored.
- While excellent with crusty bread, try drizzling this intensely flavored oil directly over hummus, grilled chicken, or fresh mozzarella slices for a beautiful, simple appetizer upgrade.
- Ensure the fresh garlic is truly minced—almost pulverized—to maximize its flavor release during the essential 20-minute resting period, allowing it to fully mellow into the high-quality olive oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American