Years ago when my husband and I were celebrating our first wedding anniversary, we took a long weekend trip to Asheville, NC. We stayed at a bed and breakfast, hiked in the mountains, took a dinner train ride, and spent a day at the Biltmore Estate. At the estate we took a gorgeous house tour and ate lunch at the restaurant on the grounds {also a winery}, and that was the first time we were introduced to the joys of French bread dipped in olive oil & balsamic vinegar. We couldn’t believe how delicious this simple appetizer was and have re-created it many, many times over the years – even our kids are obsessed with it!
Even though we took that romantic trip for our anniversary, it was this simple little idea that has stuck in my mind all these years, so when Olivari shared their olive oil with me I knew I wanted to share this experience with you. Here’s how to set up your own bread dipping appetizer.
French Bread and Dipping Oil Station
- French Baguette cut into cubes or sliced
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Balsamic Vinegar
- Dried Spice Blends like seasoned salt, garlic powder, basil, parsley, rosemary, Italian seasoning, etc.
Set out an assortment of shallow dishes and pour in olive oil. Add balsamic vinegar to one, and different seasoning blends to the others.
Dip bread into seasoned oil and enjoy.
I hope this easy entertaining idea will encourage you to enjoy the little things, and celebrate every day.
Easy Mexican Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 cup packed fresh cilantro
1/4 cup lime juice
1 Tablespoon honey
1 garlic clove, minced
Pinch of salt and pepper
Combine all ingredients together by whisking briskly or shake in a lidded jar.