Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Garlic Olive Oil Dip Recipe
This Mediterranean Sun Dried Tomato Garlic Olive Oil Dip is a flavorful and aromatic appetizer perfect for dipping bread. Made with sun-dried tomatoes infused in olive oil, garlic, shallots, herbs, spices, and finished with grated parmesan and fresh basil, this warm dip offers a rich combination of smoky, spicy, and savory notes that bring a taste of Mediterranean cuisine to your table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 jar (8 oz) sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- 1 to 2 grated garlic cloves
- 1 small finely diced shallot
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked or sweet paprika
- 1 to 2 tsp red chili flakes
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Sun-Dried Tomato Oil Base: Drain the oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes into a pot, reserving about 1/2 cup of oil. Roughly chop approximately 1/3 cup of the sun-dried tomatoes and add them to the oil, allowing the tomato flavor to infuse the oil as you prepare the next steps.
- Simmer Aromatics and Spices: Add the grated garlic, finely diced shallot, dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked or sweet paprika, and red chili flakes to the pot with the sun-dried tomato oil and chopped tomatoes. Place the pot over low heat and let it gently simmer for about 5 minutes to warm the oil and let the aromatics release their flavors. Smoked paprika adds depth, but sweet paprika can be used for a milder flavor.
- Assemble the Dipping Oil: Place the grated parmesan cheese into a serving bowl. Carefully pour the hot infused oil mixture over the cheese, allowing it to melt slightly and blend with the sharpness of the parmesan. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves to add brightness and herbaceous notes to the final dip. Serve immediately with your favorite bread for dipping.
Notes
- Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor or sweet paprika for milder warmth.
- Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to control the spice level to your preference.
- This dip is best served warm; reheat gently if made in advance.
- Pair with crusty bread, crostini, or raw vegetables for dipping.
- Store any leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container and consume within 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Keywords: sun dried tomato dip, garlic olive oil dip, Mediterranean dip, appetizer recipe, parmesan dip, spicy tomato dip
