There is something undeniably comforting about dipping warm, crusty bread into a flavorful, aromatic oil that instantly elevates any meal. This Delicious Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe is a simple yet unforgettable blend of fragrant herbs, a touch of heat, and the smooth richness of extra virgin olive oil, making it the perfect starter or snack for any gathering. Its vibrant flavors will have everyone reaching for another piece of bread, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll want to keep it in your repertoire forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be humble, but each one plays an essential role in creating that signature savory and herbaceous flavor that defines this dipping oil. The balance of herbs, spices, and cheese brings depth, while the olive oil anchors the dish with its silky texture and fruity notes.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle, mellow garlic flavor without overpowering the blend.
- Dried basil: Brings a sweet, slightly peppery aroma that enhances freshness.
- Dried oregano: Offers a warm, earthy undertone that’s classic in Italian cuisine.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Gives a subtle kick of heat to awaken the palate.
- Dried rosemary: Imparts a piney, woodsy fragrance that complements the olive oil beautifully.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a sharp spice that brightens the overall flavor.
- Kosher salt: Enhances and balances all the other flavors in the mix.
- Extra virgin olive oil: The rich, fruity base that brings everything together with a luscious texture.
- Finely grated parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty, savory richness for an extra layer of indulgence.
How to Make Delicious Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Herbs and Spices
Start by mixing the garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, dried rosemary, black pepper, and kosher salt in a small bowl. This blend is the flavor powerhouse of the recipe, and combining them first ensures that every bite will be perfectly balanced.
Step 2: Prepare the Olive Oil Base
Pour the extra virgin olive oil into a shallow serving dish. A wide, shallow bowl works best because it allows more surface area for bread to dip and for the herbs to infuse beautifully into the oil.
Step 3: Infuse the Oil with the Herb Mixture
Sprinkle the combined herb and spice mix evenly over the olive oil. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time is crucial because it allows the flavors to meld, turning the oil into a fragrant, flavorful dipping sauce.
Step 4: Add Parmesan Cheese (Optional)
If you love a little extra savory richness, sprinkle 1 to 2 teaspoons of finely grated parmesan cheese on top of the herb-infused oil. This optional step adds a luxurious depth without overpowering the fresh herb notes.
Step 5: Stir Gently Before Serving
Give the dipping oil a gentle stir to distribute the spices evenly throughout the oil before serving. This ensures every dip of bread is infused with the vibrant, balanced flavor that makes this Delicious Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe so special.
How to Serve Delicious Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, consider adding a few fresh basil leaves or a light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper on top just before serving. These subtle touches add color and highlight the fresh, fragrant flavors of the oil, making it all the more inviting.
Side Dishes
This dipping oil pairs beautifully with warm, crusty Italian bread, garlic breadsticks, or even herb focaccia. Its versatility also makes it a delightful accompaniment to antipasto platters featuring cured meats, olives, and cheeses, creating a truly authentic Italian experience at your table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the oil alongside a colorful array of roasted vegetables, such as carrots and asparagus, for dipping. Or drizzle it over a fresh Caprese salad to tie the dish together. You can even create individual dipping bowls for guests to customize their portion of the Delicious Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover dipping oil, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dried herb mix separate to preserve maximum freshness and combine just before serving again. This helps maintain that vibrant, fresh flavor we all love.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze this dipping oil because the olive oil can become cloudy and lose its texture when thawed. The herbs and spices may also lose their potency. Instead, prepare small batches as needed for the best flavor.
Reheating
This dipping oil is served at room temperature or slightly chilled, so no reheating is necessary. If refrigerated, simply let the oil sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to restore its silky texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried for this recipe?
While fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor, dried herbs are ideal for this recipe because they infuse the oil more deeply and maintain their potency over time. That said, you could experiment with fresh herbs, but you may need to adjust quantities and infusion time.
Is it necessary to use kosher salt or can I use table salt?
Kosher salt is preferred because of its coarser texture and milder taste, which helps balance the flavors more gently. If you only have table salt, use it sparingly as it’s more concentrated than kosher salt.
Can I customize the spice level in this dipping oil?
Absolutely! The crushed red pepper flakes add the heat, so feel free to increase or decrease the amount based on your preference. You can even omit it altogether if you prefer a milder dip.
How long does the dipping oil stay fresh?
If stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and without the parmesan cheese, the oil should stay fresh for up to one week. For the best taste, use it within a few days.
What kind of bread works best with this dipping oil?
Warm, crusty breads like Italian baguettes, ciabatta, or sourdough are perfect partners. The texture absorbs the oil well, and their mild flavor lets the herbs shine through beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason this Delicious Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe has captured so many hearts—it’s simple, elegant, and packed with irresistible flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a tasty snack, this recipe promises to bring a little slice of Italy right to your table. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite in your kitchen!
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Delicious Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This delicious Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil is a flavorful and aromatic blend of Mediterranean herbs, garlic, and olive oil, perfect for dipping warm, crusty bread. It’s a quick and easy appetizer that brings the taste of an Italian restaurant right to your home in just minutes.
Ingredients
Herb and Spice Mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Oil and Optional
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1–2 teaspoons finely grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Herbs and Spices: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, dried rosemary, freshly ground black pepper, and kosher salt until well blended.
- Prepare the Oil Base: Pour the extra virgin olive oil into a shallow serving dish, creating a base for the herb mixture to infuse.
- Infuse the Oil: Sprinkle the combined herb and spice mixture evenly over the olive oil. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and infuse into the oil.
- Add Parmesan (Optional): For added richness and a subtle cheesy flavor, sprinkle 1 to 2 teaspoons of finely grated parmesan cheese on top of the infused oil mixture.
- Mix Before Serving: Gently stir the mixture with a spoon or small whisk to distribute the spices and cheese evenly throughout the oil just before serving.
- Serve or Store: Serve the dipping oil immediately with warm, crusty bread. If not serving right away, store the dry seasoning separately from the oil to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use warm, crusty bread such as ciabatta or French baguette for the best dipping experience.
- For a spicier version, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Store leftover dry spices in an airtight container and olive oil in a cool, dark place.
- If adding parmesan, consume within a day for best flavor and freshness.
