Around the second month of dating my current husband (yes, current—Joshua, stay on your toes), I learned about a family tradition. He showed up at the apartment I was renting at the time with a small plastic container and demanded that I eat some of its contents… and then kiss him.
The dish is a dip called “Died and Gone to Monticello,” an oil-and-cheese herb dip typically served with bread or crackers. It’s delicious, easy to assemble, and only has five ingredients. The catch? It is literally bursting with garlic. One bite and you won’t have to worry about vampires—or anyone—invading your personal space for up to a week.
The rule in our family (all sides now) is: if one person eats it, we all have to eat it. It’s a well-known fact that the family that smells like garlic together, stays together.
It’s a staple at our dinner table, most often paired with lasagna or pasta dishes. But honestly, it’s a versatile appetizer and a total crowd-pleaser—if anyone in that crowd likes garlic.
We encourage you to give it a shot. Best case scenario: you love it and discover your go-to dish for every event. Worst case scenario: you never get invited anywhere again because people associate you with garlic.
Go forward in peace.
Died and Gone to Monticello
Ingredients
- 1/2 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/4 Cup Balsamic Vinegar
- 1/2 Cup Fresh Basil Chopped
- 15 Cloves Fresh Garlic Chopped
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 1/8 tsp Salt
- 1 Cup Grated Parmesan or Romano
- Choice of bread for dipping
Instructions
- Start by measuring out the wet ingredients. In a small bowl add the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar and set aside.
- Peel and chop the garlic. About 15 cloves (medium sized) should be chopped finely and added directly to the mixture.
- Chop basil in a fine mince and add to the mixture.
- Finally, measure out the red pepper flakes and salt before adding the cheese to the mixture.
- For the best results let the dip sit for at least an hour before serving to give the ingredients the chance to incorporate and let the flavor settle into the oil. If you have the time 24 hours is ideal!
Leave a Reply