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⏱️ Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
• Course: Appetizer

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Bread Dip

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ½ tsp lemon zest (optional)

For Serving

• Warm artisan bread
• French baguette
• Focaccia
• Ciabatta
• Breadsticks

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1

Finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh parsley.

Step 2

In a medium serving bowl, combine:

• Olive oil
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Garlic
• Parmesan cheese

Step 3

Add:

• Italian seasoning
• Basil
• Oregano
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Red pepper flakes

Step 4

Stir in the balsamic vinegar and parsley.

Step 5

Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 6

Let the dip rest for 10–15 minutes at room temperature so the flavors can meld.

Step 7

Serve with warm crusty bread for dipping.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Fresh focaccia
• Garlic bread
• Toasted baguette slices
• Ciabatta bread
• Homemade breadsticks
• Grilled vegetables
• Cheese board appetizer
• Charcuterie board

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💡 Tips

• Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes provide a richer taste than dry-packed.
• Add fresh basil for extra freshness.
• For extra cheesiness, sprinkle more Parmesan on top before serving.
• Letting the dip rest for at least 10 minutes greatly improves the flavor.

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🥣 Storage

Refrigerator: Up to 5 days in an airtight container.

If refrigerated, allow the dip to come to room temperature before serving, as olive oil may solidify when chilled.

Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture and flavor may change.

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🥗 Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 175
• Protein: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 180 mg

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the brands and quantities used.

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🥜 Allergen Information

Contains:

• ✅ Milk (Parmesan cheese)

Does Not Normally Contain:

• Peanuts
• Tree nuts
• Eggs
• Fish
• Shellfish
• Wheat (the dip itself is gluten-free; bread is not)
• Soy (unless present in packaged ingredients)

Gluten-Free Option:

Serve with certified gluten-free bread or gluten-free crackers.

Dairy-Free Option:

Omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before serving.

2. What bread pairs best with this dip?

Ciabatta, focaccia, French baguette, sourdough, and artisan bread are all excellent choices.

3. Can I use dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, but rehydrate them in warm water for about 20 minutes or use tomatoes packed in oil for a richer flavor.

4. Is this dip spicy?

No. It’s mild by default. Add more crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer extra heat.

5. Can I omit the cheese?

Yes. The dip is still delicious without Parmesan, making it suitable for a dairy-free diet.

6. Can I add fresh herbs?

Absolutely. Fresh basil, parsley, thyme, or oregano all enhance the flavor.

7. What else can I serve with this dip?

It pairs well with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, shrimp, mozzarella, or as a flavorful drizzle over pasta and salads.

8. Can I use flavored olive oil?

Yes. Garlic-infused, basil-infused, or chili-infused extra virgin olive oil can add even more depth and complexity to the dip.