Loaded Olive Oil with Roasted Pepper and Garden-Fresh Basil

Some flavours just sing when they meet great olive oil - and roasted red pepper is one of them. Sweet, smoky, and silky, it melts beautifully into our Opus Extra Virgin Olive Oil, creating a vibrant dipping oil that’s both rustic and refined.

Whether you're hosting guests or indulging in a sunset aperitivo with a friend, this loaded olive oil is sunshine on a plate. Paired with fresh sourdough or focaccia, it’s the kind of starter that disappears in minutes.

This one made its debut at one of our sommelier-led tasting evenings, and it’s been requested at every event since.

🔥 LOADED ROASTED RED PEPPER OLIVE OIL – for dipping bread

🫒 You’ll need:

• ½ cup of Opus Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• 1 roasted red pepper, peeled and finely chopped (jarred or homemade)

• 1 small clove of garlic, grated or finely minced

• 1 tsp sherry vinegar (or red wine vinegar)

• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chiffonade or torn

• Pinch of Aleppo pepper or mild chili flakes (optional)

• Sea salt, to taste

• Crusty bakery bread, to serve

🍽️ How to make it:

1. Start with a shallow plate or bowl with a wide base and a gentle rim - this keeps the oil and its bold bits beautifully contained.

2. Pour in the Opus EVOO. Add the finely chopped roasted red pepper, garlic, vinegar, basil, and a pinch of salt.

3. Stir gently to combine. The oil should shimmer with color and fragrance—deep gold streaked with red, flecked with herbs.

4. Finish with a light dusting of Aleppo pepper or chili flakes if you like a subtle kick.

Tear into your bread, dip generously, and let the layers of smoky-sweet and aromatic pepperiness unfold.

🌿 Why this works:

The freshness of Opus EVOO meets the natural sweetness of the pepper, while the vinegar sharpens the edges, and basil brings in a garden-fresh finish. It’s a flavor harmony made for sun-drenched tables and slow, joyful eating.

👩🍳 Chef’s Tip:

This loaded oil also makes a fantastic finishing drizzle for grilled chicken, roasted cauliflower, or even a warm grain salad. Spoon it over labneh or soft goat cheese for a next-level dip.

Let this be your go-to for gatherings or those quiet summer moments that deserve something special - but simple.

Next in the series? We’re loading our EVOO with crushed cherry tomatoes and mellow roasted garlic … stay tuned.