Rustic Italian Olive Oil & Balsamic Bread Dip
Transport yourself to a quaint Italian trattoria with this Rustic Italian Olive Oil & Balsamic Bread Dip. Inspired by a serendipitous encounter with an extraordinary bottle of private reserve olive oil during a late-night meal, this dip celebrates the simplicity of high-quality ingredients. The smooth, rich flavor of extra virgin olive oil pairs gracefully with the tangy depth of aged balsamic vinegar, making for an irresistible combination that enhances any fresh Italian bread. The optional fresh basil adds a delightful aromatic touch, striking a perfect harmony with the richness of the dip. Pair this easy-to-make appetizer with a bottle of your favorite Italian wine, and you've created a beautiful start to your meal that will spark conversation and memories at the table.
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh Italian bread
1 loaf (sliced into appetizer-sized pieces)
Extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup (fresh, high-quality)
Dark aged balsamic vinegar
2-3 teaspoons (good quality)
Fresh basil leaves
a few (chiffonade, optional)
Instructions
1
Start by selecting a quality loaf of fresh Italian bread and slice it into small, manageable pieces suitable for dipping. Arrange the slices attractively on a serving platter.
2
In a shallow bowl or a rimmed plate, gently pour the extra virgin olive oil to create a small pool in the center.
3
Carefully drizzle the dark aged balsamic vinegar around and over the surface of the olive oil, ensuring a visually appealing presentation.
4
If desired, add the chiffonade of fresh basil to the top of the oil and vinegar mixture for an aromatic touch.
5
To serve, take a piece of the sliced bread and lightly dunk it into the olive oil-balsamic blend. Savor the delightful taste and enjoy the experience.
6
Pair with a bottle of good Italian wine for the perfect accompaniment to your appetizer, and let the flavors transport you to Italy.
Nutrition Information
31g
Fat
17.5g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rustic Italian Olive Oil & Balsamic Bread Dip?
It is a simple and elegant Italian-inspired appetizer that combines high-quality extra virgin olive oil with dark aged balsamic vinegar and fresh basil for dipping bread.
What type of bread is recommended for this recipe?
A fresh loaf of Italian bread is recommended, sliced into small, manageable pieces suitable for dipping.
Which olive oil should I use for the best flavor?
You should use a high-quality, fresh extra virgin olive oil to ensure a smooth and rich flavor profile.
What type of balsamic vinegar is best?
A dark aged balsamic vinegar is best for providing the necessary tangy depth and sweetness to the dip.
Is the fresh basil mandatory for the recipe?
No, the fresh basil is optional, but it adds a delightful aromatic touch that balances the richness of the oil.
How do I prepare the basil for this dip?
The basil should be prepared as a chiffonade, which means slicing the leaves into thin, ribbon-like strips.
What is the calorie count for this bread dip?
One serving of this bread dip contains approximately 200 calories.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are 31 grams of fat per serving in this recipe, primarily from the heart-healthy olive oil.
What are the carbohydrate and protein levels?
The recipe contains 17.5 grams of carbohydrates and 2.5 grams of protein per serving.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
The recipe requires 4 main ingredients: Italian bread, extra virgin olive oil, dark aged balsamic vinegar, and fresh basil.
How should I plate the olive oil and balsamic?
Pour the olive oil into a shallow bowl first to create a pool, then drizzle the balsamic vinegar over and around the oil.
What is a good beverage pairing for this appetizer?
This dip pairs beautifully with a bottle of your favorite Italian wine.
Can I serve this at a dinner party?
Yes, it is an ideal starter that sparks conversation and creates a trattoria-like atmosphere at the table.
How long does it take to prepare?
This is an easy and quick recipe that can be assembled in just a few minutes once the bread is sliced.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
It was inspired by a late-night meal at an Italian trattoria and a discovery of exceptional private reserve olive oil.
Should the balsamic be mixed into the oil?
The balsamic should be drizzled over the oil rather than stirred in to maintain a visually appealing presentation.
What kind of bowl is best for serving?
A shallow bowl or a rimmed plate is best for easy dipping and better visual presentation.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
How much balsamic vinegar should I add?
Use 2 to 3 teaspoons of dark aged balsamic vinegar depending on your preference for tanginess.
What size should the bread slices be?
The bread should be cut into appetizer-sized pieces that are easy to handle and dunk.
Does this recipe contain any sodium?
According to the nutrition data provided, there is no significant sodium content listed for this recipe.
Is there any sugar in this dip?
The data does not list a specific sugar amount, though aged balsamic typically contains some natural sweetness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, as it consists of bread, olive oil, vinegar, and herbs, it is naturally vegan-friendly.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
While fresh basil is preferred for its aroma, you could use a pinch of dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
How do you properly dip the bread?
Take a slice of bread and lightly dunk it into the mixture to catch both the oil and the vinegar droplets.
Is this a heavy or light appetizer?
While rich in healthy fats, the simplicity and small portion sizes make it a perfect light start to a larger meal.
Can I prepare the dip in advance?
It is best prepared just before serving to keep the oil fresh and the presentation of the vinegar droplets intact.
What does 'dark aged' signify for balsamic vinegar?
It refers to vinegar that has been aged in barrels, resulting in a thicker, sweeter, and more complex flavor.
How many servings does this make?
While the exact serving count isn't specified, the ingredient amounts are suitable for a small group appetizer.
What is the key to the success of this recipe?
The key is using the highest quality ingredients possible, especially the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.