Since the American Heart Association found a link between olive oil consumption and a reduction in the risk of heart disease, more and more people have become interested in finding ways to use this delicious oil. While you may know of olive oil as being an important component in oil and vinegar dressing or adorning a simple olive oil and roasted garlic pasta, there is yet another use for this healthy fat that can make it an even more delicious treat.

Dipping olive oils are centered on the idea of pairing fresh bread with the rich, decadent olive oil. By dipping olive oil with bread, you will have an unmatched combination. However, while basic dipping olive oil will work quite well with a simple loaf of fresh Italian bread, you may also want to try some of the more interesting combinations. Fresh, grilled or steamed vegetables can make a wonderful accompaniment, as can various flat breads. You can also give some variety to your dipping olive oil idea by playing around with the olive oil itself. You may want to try adding some freshly cracked black pepper. Or, you may want to sprinkle some Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese on the top.

While dipping olive oil will certainly provide for a wonderful treat for yourself and your spouse, you may also want to consider putting out a spread of different dipping olive oils for company. Presenting a platter of various breads and vegetables along with samplings of different types of dipping olive oils will make your party memorable. Your guests will thank you for the night of elegance and sophistication that you provided them.

Other than the taste of dipping olive oil and bread together, you will enjoy the many health-related benefits of consuming olive oil. Other than being linked to lowering the risk of heart disease, healthy fats, such as those in dipping olive oils, have even been linked to lowering total cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of blot clotting, and maintaining insulin levels. With so many benefits, you should make olive oil a regular part of your diet.