Sun-Dried Tomato Garlic Olive Oil Dip is a bold and flavorful appetizer made with rich sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and high-quality olive oil. Perfect as a bread dip or drizzle over grilled vegetables or pasta, this Mediterranean-inspired condiment is easy to make and packed with umami and zest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Requires minimal ingredients and no cooking
- Ready in under 10 minutes
- Bursting with Mediterranean flavors
- Versatile — use as a dip, drizzle, or marinade
- Pairs beautifully with crusty bread, crackers, or cheese boards
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained, reserve oil)
- Fresh garlic cloves
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar (optional, for tang)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. You can also pulse them together in a food processor for a smoother texture.
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and garlic.
- Stir in olive oil (and reserved sun-dried tomato oil, if desired), balsamic vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well and let the flavors meld for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs just before serving. Serve with warm crusty bread or as part of a charcuterie board.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Add grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist
- Include chopped olives or capers for brininess
- Blend into a spread for sandwiches or crostini
- Stir in lemon zest for brightness
- Use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor
Storage/Reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week
- Let come to room temperature before serving
- Not suitable for freezing due to oil separation
FAQs
Can I use dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, rehydrate them in warm water or olive oil for 20 minutes before using.
What olive oil is best for this dip?
Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
How long does this dip last?
Up to one week in the refrigerator in a sealed container.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better when made ahead to let the flavors meld.
Is this dip spicy?
Not by default, but you can add red pepper flakes to increase heat.
What can I serve this with?
Crusty bread, crackers, pita chips, grilled vegetables, or cheese boards.
Can I use roasted garlic instead of fresh?
Yes, roasted garlic will give a sweeter, milder flavor.
Can I turn this into a pasta sauce?
Yes, mix with warm pasta and a splash of pasta water for a quick sauce.
Is this dip vegan?
Yes, it’s completely vegan and dairy-free.
What herbs work best?
Fresh parsley, basil, or even thyme enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
Conclusion
Sun-Dried Tomato Garlic Olive Oil Dip is a quick and delicious way to elevate your appetizer game. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dip that’s rich, zesty, and irresistibly good. Whether served with bread, veggies, or as part of a larger spread, this dip is sure to impress and become a favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Sun-Dried Tomato Garlic Olive Oil Dip
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A rich and savory Mediterranean-style dip made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil—perfect for serving with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, but do not brown.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and top with fresh parsley if using. Serve warm or at room temperature with bread or vegetables.
Notes
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Serve as a dip or drizzle over grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg