Pesto Dip for Bread

Looking for a way to take your appetizer game to the next level? This vibrant pesto dip for bread is the answer.

With just a handful of ingredients—prepared pesto, rich olive oil, tangy balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese—you can create a sophisticated dip that pairs beautifully with crusty bread, fresh vegetables or even grilled meats. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this pesto dipping oil is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients for Pesto Dip for Bread

Diana Chistruga for Taste of Home

• Olive oil: You can’t have dipping oil without the oil. Go with a high-quality olive oil—it will make a world of difference taste-wise.
• Balsamic vinegar: For a bit of acidity, balsamic vinegar and olive oil are a match made in culinary heaven, and once you add pesto to the mix you have a recipe home run.
• Prepared pesto: Save yourself a few extra steps and opt for jarred pesto or store-bought pesto you can find in the hummus section of the grocery store. Bonus points if you go with homemade pesto though!
• Parmesan cheese: Most dipping oils are better paired with cheese, and pesto oil is no exception. Even though the prepared pesto already has a little parm mixed in, it doesn’t hurt to add a smidge more on top of the oil for good measure.
• French bread baguette: For dipping, we keep it classic with a French baguette, thinly sliced, but you could use any fresh-baked bread or gluten-free bread. You could even skip the bread altogether and opt for crudites.

Directions

Step 1: Make the dipping oil

Diana Chistruga for Taste of Home

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, pesto, salt and pepper until you have a smooth consistency and there aren’t any large chunks of pesto remaining.

Step 2: Garnish with cheese and serve

Diana Chistruga for Taste of Home

Pour the dipping oil into a shallow serving bowl, and sprinkle it generously with Parmesan cheese. Serve the dipping sauce with your choice of bread, perhaps a baguette or another crusty loaf sliced thin and toasted.

Diana Chistruga for Taste of Home

Recipe Variations

• Add a ball of burrata: Burrata cheese makes everything better, including a delicious pesto dip.
• Switch up the bread: Thinly sliced focaccia would be amazing with this pesto dip, as would warm pita triangles, olive oil crackers, toasted sourdough or freshly baked tortilla chips.
• Add tomatoes: When tomatoes are in season and ripe for picking, they belong in everything, including pesto dipping oil. Slice big juicy reds into 1-inch rounds and spoon the pesto oil on top, or cut tiny cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the middle of the bowl, surrounded by the oil.
• Make it creamy: Looking for a silky, decadent dip? Add a little cream cheese or creme fraiche, and give it a good whisk.

How to Store Pesto Dip for Bread

Similar to prepared pesto, the trick is to remove all the air when storing the leftovers, otherwise the pesto will go from green to brown quickly. Transfer any remaining dipping oil to sealed, airtight containers and place them in the fridge until you’re ready to use the oil again.

How long does pesto bread dip last?

It will last three to four days if stored properly. Pro tip: To extend this dip’s life expectancy even further, place a layer of cling wrap on top of the oil before closing the container. This will literally cling to the oil and prevent even more air from getting in.

Can you freeze pesto dipping sauce for bread?

Yes! In fact, this is a great recipe to make in batches—some for now, some to freeze for later. This pesto oil will be just fine in the freezer for up to four months.

Pesto Dip for Bread Tips

Diana Chistruga for Taste of Home

What’s the best oil for making pesto dipping oil?

High-quality extra virgin olive oil. This is not a time for Canola or coconut oil. Not only will good olive oil taste better, but it will sneak in some healthy fats and antioxidants at the same time.

Why is my pesto oil dark?

Make sure you use a super fresh, brand-new pesto, as in a new jar or container that hasn’t been opened and exposed to air yet. Using semi-old pesto won’t produce that verdant green color you’re after.

What can you serve pesto dipping oil with other than bread?

Serve a little on the side to drizzle over grilled chicken, meat and lamb chops. You could also use it as a marinade to season your meat and fish before cooking.