If you love vibrant flavors packed into a dip that feels like a mini getaway to the Mediterranean, then this Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Dip is about to become your new obsession. Imagine rich sun-dried tomatoes mingling with fragrant garlic, aromatic herbs, and the luscious silkiness of olive oil all crowned with a hint of smoky paprika and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dip that brightens up any gathering and makes even the humblest bread something extraordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Dip lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of authentic flavor, texture, and color that transform from everyday pantry staples into a gourmet treat.
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil: These bring intense, tangy sweetness and a chewy texture that form the heart of the dip.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly grated for a punch of pungent warmth that awakens the palate.
- Shallot: Finely diced, this adds subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering.
- Dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb for earthy, slightly minty notes.
- Dried thyme: Adds a delicate, aromatic scent that enhances the herbal profile.
- Smoked or sweet paprika: Choose smoked for a hint of earthiness or sweet for a gentle warmth and vibrant color.
- Red chili flakes: Just a touch to introduce a pleasant, spicy kick that enlivens the mix.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated, it melts into the warm oil creating a creamy, savory finish.
- Fresh basil leaves: For garnish, lending a bright, fresh, herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully.
How to Make Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Dip
Step 1: Infuse the Oil
Begin by draining about 1/2 cup of oil from your jar of sun-dried tomatoes into a small pot. Chop roughly one-third of the sun-dried tomatoes and add them to the oil. This step is pure magic because as the oil heats up later, it will soak in the deep, tangy tomato essence, transforming from a simple oil into a flavor powerhouse. Trust me, this infusion is the secret that sets the dip apart.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Add the grated garlic, finely diced shallot, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, and red chili flakes to the pot with the infused oil and chopped tomatoes. Keep the heat low and let everything gently simmer for about five minutes. This slow warming helps the aromatics bloom, softening the sharp edges of raw garlic and shallots, while the herbs and spices release their full personality into the blend. The result is a beautifully fragrant, silky oil mixed with tender sun-dried tomatoes bursting with essence.
Step 3: Combine with Parmesan
Place the grated Parmesan cheese in a serving bowl, then carefully pour the hot oil and herb mixture over it. The heat from the oil will slightly melt the cheese, creating a lovely creamy texture that perfectly complements the rich flavors. This final combination makes the dip luxuriously smooth with salty, cheesy notes harmonizing with the bright tomato and herb flavors.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Scatter fresh basil leaves generously on top to add a fresh, green burst of color and a punch of herbal brightness. Serve your Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Dip immediately alongside freshly toasted bread, crunchy crackers, or even crudités—the perfect way to scoop up every last luscious drop.
How to Serve Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Dip
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the star garnish here for a reason—they provide a contrast in color and an herbal lift that brightens each bite. You might also add a sprinkle of crushed red chili flakes for extra heat or a few tiny shavings of Parmesan for an elegant touch that melts delicately on the tongue.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs beautifully with crusty rustic breads like a French baguette or ciabatta, which soak up the beautiful oils and flavors. For lighter accompaniments, crisp vegetable sticks such as cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers offer a refreshing crunch that balances the richness. Want to get creative? Try pita chips or even grilled flatbread slices for a smoky, crispy twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Set your dip in a shallow, wide bowl to allow guests easier access and better scooping. Surround it with an array of colorful sides grouped artfully on a platter. Try layering the dip with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a handful of toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch. Whether for an elegant appetizer plate or a casual snack spread, this dip captivates with its rustic charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Dip, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Make sure to bring it back to room temperature and gently stir before serving to re-meld the flavors.
Freezing
Freezing this dip is not recommended as the texture of the cheese and oils can separate upon thawing, which might affect the luscious consistency you love. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days after making.
Reheating
To reheat, place the dip in a small saucepan over low heat just until warmed through—avoid boiling to prevent the cheese from overcooking or becoming grainy. Stir gently to combine everything again and serve warm for maximum flavor and comfort.
FAQs
Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of jarred in oil?
While dried sun-dried tomatoes are delicious, they lack the infused oil that brings so much richness to this dip. If using dried ones, you’ll need to rehydrate them in warm water and add good quality olive oil separately to mimic the original texture and flavor.
Is this dip spicy?
The dip has a gentle heat from the red chili flakes, which you can adjust based on your preference. If you prefer mild flavors, reduce the amount or skip the chili flakes altogether.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well. You might also add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What breads work best for dipping?
Rustic breads with a sturdy crust like sourdough or ciabatta are ideal because they hold up well to the oil and chunky texture. Toasted baguette slices or pita chips also make excellent partners.
How long does it take to prepare this dip?
From start to finish, this dip takes around 15 to 20 minutes, which makes it a fantastic option for quick entertaining or when you want a flavorful snack in no time.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the simple pleasure of a homemade dip that feels like a warm embrace from the Mediterranean sun. The Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Dip is a vibrant, luscious delight you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether you’re hosting friends or indulging in a solo snack moment, this dip invites you to savor every spoonful with joy. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you.
PrintMediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Dip
A flavorful Mediterranean dip featuring sun-dried tomatoes infused in garlic and herb-spiced olive oil, enriched with grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Perfect as an appetizer served with bread, this warm dip boasts a rich blend of smoky, spicy, and aromatic notes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dip
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Oil
- 1 jar (8 oz) sun-dried tomatoes in oil
Flavorings and Aromatics
- 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
Cheese and Garnish
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the infused oil: Drain the oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes into a small pot, reserving about 1/2 cup of oil. Roughly chop about 1/3 cup of sun-dried tomatoes from the jar and add them to the oil to infuse it with extra tomato flavor.
- Simmer aromatics: Add grated garlic, finely diced shallot, dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked or sweet paprika, and red chili flakes to the oil and chopped tomatoes. Place the pot over low heat and gently simmer for approximately 5 minutes, allowing the oil to warm and the aromatics to release their rich flavors without burning.
- Combine with parmesan: Place the grated parmesan cheese in a serving bowl. Carefully pour the hot flavored oil and tomato mixture over the cheese, letting it melt slightly and blend into a creamy dip.
- Garnish and serve: Generously top the dip with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant herbaceous touch. Serve immediately with your favorite bread for dipping.
Notes
- Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor or sweet paprika for a milder taste.
- Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to control the level of spiciness.
- This dip is best served warm immediately after preparation but can be gently reheated if needed.
- Pair with crusty bread, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.