When you go out to dinner and get your bread basket from the server, it’s almost always served with plain butter. In many cases, this can be great because the subtle flavor of the butter allows the bread’s flavor to shine through. However, if you’re looking for a way to change how you serve your own bread baskets at dinner parties, here are a few alternatives you could consider.
Oil and Vinegar Dip
One of the simplest things to serve with your bread basket is olive oil and balsamic vinegar mixed with fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, and rosemary. It’s a quick and easy dip to mix together and works for almost any meal.
Herbed Compound Butter
Compound butter is easy to make and is also incredibly versatile. You can mix your butter with fresh or dried herbs, such as parsley or rosemary, then use it as a spread for crusty bread or as a finishing touch to a juicy steak.
Black Bean Dip
Although most people probably put black bean dip on tortilla chips, it can be great on thin, crispy slices of bread, too. A nice mix of beans, onions, lime juice, and jalapeno makes this dip an excellent starter for a Tex-Mex meal.
Pimento Cheese
If you love cheese, you should definitely give pimento cheese a try. This southern staple can be used in countless dishes. One of the best ways to enjoy its rich flavor is by spreading it on a piece of warm bread. The way the cheese and pimentos mix and offer just the right kick of flavor is something you just can’t replicate.
Your bread basket doesn’t have to be complicated to be tasty, but it also doesn’t have to stick to the norm. Use one of the choices listed here to add more flavor to your next dinner party and give your guests something to remember.