Use the best quality extra virgin olive oil that you can get ... Here are a few delicious variations using this recipe for Italian bread dipping oil as a base: Add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan ...

Cut the bread into ½-inch-thick slices. On each slice, spread butter generously, then top with an anchovy fillet.

Panzanella, the summery Italian bread salad made with ripe tomatoes, is one of the best known. This variation uses multigrain or wholewheat bread, which makes especially crunchy croutons.