Dipping Oil
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes | Serves: 2
When my husband and I lived near Johnson City, TN, we frequented an Italian restaurant called “Alta Cucina.” The restaurant is no longer there, but I still remember the flavors and aromas quite vividly. This restaurant was our first introduction to bread dipping oil. We have been enjoying this dish since, tweaking and adjusting flavors for the moods along the way. It is a real treat for us.
This is a fantastic appetizer for your next guests. It couldn’t be simpler. The flavors of this dipping oil are so delicious and it makes a beautiful presentation to your guests. A key to this starter is to use an excellent quality extra-virgin olive oil. My family is partial to Abingdon Olive Oil Company. We’ve tried many of their extra-virgin olive oils and infused oils, a variety of vinegars and beautiful pottery. We have never been disappointed.
Choose a hearty bread that will stand up to the oil and pressure of soaking up those incredible flavors. I normally use a Tuscan Boule from our local Publix; it is a favorite of mine. I wouldn’t use a very soft bread that could disintegrate very quickly. Any artisan/crusty bread would be really nice here.
You do not have to use the crushed red pepper flakes if heat is just not your thing. Totally optional here, but I like the little bit of bite it brings.
Be sure to use freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkling of a coarse salt, such as kosher salt or even Maldon salt. Freshly cracked black pepper tastes much better than pre-ground black pepper. Since there is a minimal number of ingredients here, you want to use the best you can get your hands on.
Abingdon Olive Oil Company carries the pottery of Debbie Grim. They are beautiful works of art that you’ll enjoy having in your kitchen, especially if you like to entertain. The photo is her Heart Signature Dish. It is a 4-piece set that nestles together, but each component has a purpose. I won’t go into detail because I want you to look into her line if you’re interested.
Enjoy this amazing Dipping Oil recipe!
Dipping Oil
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 tablespoons excellent quality extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, freshly grated from a block (not a green canister)
- pinch crushed red pepper flakes
- freshly cracked black pepper, as much as desired
- pinch kosher salt, or other coarse salt
- 1/2 loaf of hearty bread, sliced, lightly toasted if desired
Instructions
- Place the Parmesan cheese on a small serving plate.
- Sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes (if using), black pepper and salt evenly over the cheese.
- Pour the oil over the other ingredients and serve with bread.
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