This easy tomato garlic dipping oil recipe for crusty bread includes both a tomato confit version and a quick version for rich garlic flavor.
If Using Cherry Tomato Confit
½ cup Cherry Tomato Confit (include some of the oil)
1 teaspoon finely minced fresh garlic
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, for serving
Quick Version (No Confit Needed)
1 cup whole cherry tomatoes
4 tablespoons olive oil
1–2 smashed garlic cloves
Pinch of salt
Pinch of sugar (or 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar as substitute)
1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic (added after roasting)
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, for serving
If Using Cherry Tomato Confit
Spoon ½ cup of Cherry Tomato Confit (with some oil) into a small skillet or saucepan.
Warm gently over low heat until the oil melts and turns glossy - do not simmer.
Once liquid, remove from heat and stir in minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes to infuse the flavor.
Serve warm with crusty bread.
Quick Version (No Confit Needed)
Combine cherry tomatoes, olive oil, smashed garlic, salt, and sugar (or balsamic) in a small baking dish.
Roast at 375°F for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through so the garlic and tomatoes cook evenly without burning.
Gently mash the tomatoes with a fork - leaving some whole if you like.
Stir in minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving with bread.
The olive oil may solidify or turn cloudy when refrigerated - this is normal.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days and bring to room temperature before serving.
For extra flavor, add dried or hearty herbs before cooking, or stir in tender herbs afterward. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.