There’s something undeniably luxurious about the combination of roasted garlic and olive oil — simple ingredients that, when paired, become pure magic. This Roasted Garlic Olive Oil Dip is a restaurant-style starter that’s unbelievably easy to make yet feels gourmet in every way. The garlic turns sweet and mellow after roasting, infusing the oil with rich, nutty notes that make every bite irresistible. Whether served with crusty bread, drizzled over grilled vegetables, or used as a dressing base, this dip is versatile and deeply satisfying. I tried this recipe with a bold extra virgin olive oil and added a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick — it transformed my appetizer spread into something spectacular. This is the kind of recipe that proves simple ingredients can deliver unforgettable flavor, perfect for sharing with guests or savoring alone with a warm baguette.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe captures everything you love about Mediterranean-style dining — rich olive oil, caramelized roasted garlic, and aromatic herbs. It’s effortlessly elegant, easy to prepare, and makes any meal feel special. Perfect as an appetizer, bread dip, or finishing oil for pasta, it’s an all-around kitchen essential that adds depth and warmth to any dish.
Print
Roasted Garlic Olive Oil Dip: The Ultimate Flavor-Infused Appetizer
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A rich and aromatic olive oil dip infused with sweet roasted garlic, perfect for serving with bread, vegetables, or drizzling over dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 head of garlic
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
- Bread or crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with a little olive oil and wrap in foil.
- Roast for 35–40 minutes, until the garlic is soft and golden brown. Let cool slightly.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into a small bowl and mash with a fork.
- Stir in olive oil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), lemon juice, and herbs until well combined.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting & Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Garlic bulbs
Fresh, plump garlic is the star of this recipe. Roasting softens its bite, transforming it into a buttery, sweet flavor that infuses the oil beautifully.
Extra virgin olive oil
Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil — it’s the backbone of the dip. A robust or fruity oil adds depth and enhances the roasted garlic’s nutty undertones.
Sea salt
A pinch of sea salt brings out the full flavor of the garlic and balances the richness of the olive oil.
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
Fresh herbs introduce fragrance and color. Rosemary gives a woodsy aroma, thyme adds earthiness, and parsley provides a fresh, clean finish.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
If you love a bit of heat, red pepper flakes bring subtle spice without overpowering the roasted garlic flavor.
Lemon zest or juice (optional)
Adding a touch of lemon zest or juice brightens the dip, cutting through the richness of the oil and garlic.
Balsamic glaze (optional drizzle)
For a gourmet twist, a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds sweetness and visual appeal. I tried this variation, and it gave the dip a stunning restaurant-style finish.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Begin by cutting off the top quarter of each garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Place the bulbs on a sheet of foil, drizzle generously with olive oil, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Wrap them tightly and roast for about 35–40 minutes, or until the cloves are soft, golden, and caramelized.
Once roasted, allow the garlic to cool slightly. Squeeze the softened cloves into a small bowl and mash them gently with a fork until smooth. Pour olive oil into the bowl and whisk to combine, creating a fragrant, golden dip. Add a touch of sea salt and stir in your chosen herbs. If desired, sprinkle in a few red pepper flakes for heat and a touch of lemon zest for brightness.
Transfer the dip to a shallow dish or serving bowl. For extra flair, drizzle with a little more olive oil and garnish with herbs or a light swirl of balsamic glaze. Serve warm with crusty bread, focaccia, or fresh vegetables.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
Servings: 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm over low heat or place the container in a bowl of warm water until the oil loosens. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the oil’s flavor. If refrigerated, allow it to reach room temperature before serving for the best texture and aroma.
Variations and Customizations
Herb-Infused Olive Oil
Add sprigs of rosemary, thyme, or basil to the oil while it’s warm to create a deeply aromatic dip.
Spicy Garlic Oil
Infuse the oil with red pepper flakes or a touch of chili oil for a bold, fiery kick.
Parmesan Twist
Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer, saltier variation perfect for bread dipping.
Citrus Burst
Add lemon or orange zest for a bright, refreshing flavor that balances the garlic’s sweetness.
Smoky Depth
Mix in a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note that complements grilled dishes.
Sun-Dried Tomato Blend
Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-style upgrade.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Fresh garlic is best, as pre-minced garlic won’t caramelize or sweeten properly during roasting.
2. What’s the best olive oil to use?
A good-quality extra virgin olive oil with a fruity or peppery finish enhances the dip’s depth.
3. Can I roast the garlic ahead of time?
Yes, roasted garlic can be made up to three days ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to use.
4. Can I make this dip spicy?
Absolutely! Add chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for heat.
5. How do I serve this dip?
It’s perfect with warm bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables. You can also drizzle it over pasta or grilled meats.
6. Can I store this dip at room temperature?
No, it should be refrigerated to prevent bacterial growth in the oil.
7. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.
8. Can I use other herbs?
Definitely! Try oregano, basil, or dill for different flavor profiles.
9. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Keep the bulbs tightly wrapped in foil and check them around 30 minutes to avoid over-roasting.
10. Can I blend the dip for a smoother texture?
Yes, you can pulse it briefly in a food processor for a creamier, emulsified finish.
Conclusion
Roasted Garlic Olive Oil Dip is the epitome of elegance through simplicity — a rich, aromatic blend that turns everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. With its golden color, velvety texture, and deep, mellow flavor, it’s the perfect addition to any meal or appetizer spread. Whether served with fresh bread or drizzled over roasted vegetables, this dip brings warmth and sophistication to the table every single time.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!