Scatter the crushed garlic, italian herb seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, coarse sea salt, and fresh ground pepper into a shallow dish, then pour in the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The seasonings should spread across the surface, with the vinegar pooling in darker streaks rather than fully blending into the oil.

Serve the dip with toasted or homemade bread after it has rested briefly. As it sits, the garlic softens slightly, the dried herbs look hydrated and blooming in the oil, and the aroma becomes rounder and more savory.