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Spicy Garlic Herb Dipping Oil - A Bold, Flavor-Packed Table Staple

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil (choose a fruity, good-quality bottle)
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated
  • 1–1 1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped (optional but lovely)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or sweet paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice (or red wine vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
  • 1–2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan (optional, for umami)
  • Warm, crusty bread, for serving

Method
 

  1. Prep the aromatics: Mince the garlic as finely as you can. Chop the fresh herbs and grate the lemon zest if using. Keep everything ready so the flavors blend evenly.
  2. Warm the oil gently: Add the olive oil to a small skillet over very low heat. Stir in the minced garlic and let it warm for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant. Do not brown the garlic; you’re aiming for a gentle bloom, not a sauté.
  3. Add the spices: Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Warm for another 30–60 seconds to release flavor.
  4. Take it off the heat: Remove the pan from the stove. Let it cool slightly so the fresh herbs don’t wilt too much when added.
  5. Finish with freshness: Stir in the parsley, fresh basil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Taste and adjust salt, acid, or heat. If using Parmesan, add it now for a savory finish.
  6. Serve: Pour into a shallow dish and serve warm or at room temperature with crusty bread. Swirl before dipping so the herbs and spices don’t settle.