If you’re dreaming of dipping warm, crusty bread into an irresistibly flavorful blend of herbs and olive oil, you need to try Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil. This restaurant-style favorite is loaded with bold Italian herbs, lots of garlic, a hint of heat, and the richness of extra virgin olive oil, all coming together for a show-stopping starter at home. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this easy appetizer delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil plays a starring role, balancing earthiness, heat, aroma, and a robust Italian character. Most are pantry staples, proving once again that classic dishes often come from humble beginnings.
- Dried Basil: Adds a sweet, slightly peppery flavor that’s key to Italian herb blends.
- Dried Oregano: Brings a warm, aromatic bite that gives the dip its signature fragrance.
- Dried Rosemary: Delivers woodsy flavor and a pine-like aroma for depth.
- Dried Parsley: Freshens the mix with a mild, grassy note and a pop of green color.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch brings gentle heat and a gorgeous speckle of color—adjust to taste.
- Minced Garlic: Raw garlic packs a punch—mellow it slightly by letting it mingle with the oil before serving.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a lively, peppery finish; freshly ground is a must for best flavor.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances every other flavor; use kosher for a cleaner, less salty edge.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The heart of the dip; use your favorite high-quality oil for best taste and aroma.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): For serving, adds salty, nutty richness that melts deliciously into the oil.
How to Make Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil
Step 1: Combine the Herbs and Spices
In a small bowl, mix together the dried basil, oregano, rosemary, parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, minced garlic, freshly ground black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir well to blend the flavors evenly—this fragrant mix is the essence of the famous Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil.
Step 2: Blend with Olive Oil
When you’re ready to serve, spoon about a tablespoon of the herb blend onto a shallow plate. Drizzle 2 to 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the herbs. Use a spoon or fork to gently stir things together, allowing the oil to carry the flavors throughout.
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches
If you’re a cheese lover, now’s the time to sprinkle some fresh grated Parmesan right on top of your Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil. This optional step brings even more savory depth and a bit of creaminess to every dip.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately with slices or chunks of warm, crusty bread—think Italian baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough. Watch as everyone gathers around, eager to dip and savor every last drop.
How to Serve Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil
Garnishes
To really dress up your Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil, try a simple garnish or two. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan makes it more decadent, while a few fresh basil or parsley leaves can brighten both the look and the flavor. For a pop of color, add a touch more red pepper flakes or a swirl of good olive oil right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs beautifully with almost any Italian-inspired meal. Try serving it alongside a classic Caesar salad, a big cheese and olive platter, or even with your favorite pasta dishes. It works perfectly as a pre-dinner nibble or as an accompaniment to soups and stews for a cozy meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil feel like a restaurant experience by using small, shallow bowls or pretty olive oil dipping plates. For parties, set out a DIY dipping bar with a basket of assorted rustic breads and little bowls of extra cheese, fresh herbs, or roasted garlic for everyone to customize their own dip.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve made more herb blend than you need, just pop it into an airtight jar or container. It’ll keep its flavor for up to two weeks in a cool, dry place—ready anytime a bread craving strikes.
Freezing
While the herb blend can technically be frozen, dried herbs and garlic can lose some of their punch over time. For best flavor, stick to storing the dry mix at room temperature and avoid freezing the olive oil—it can turn cloudy and adopt an odd texture.
Reheating
Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil is served at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If your olive oil has thickened in a cold kitchen, simply let the mixture sit near a warm spot or briefly set the oil out to reach room temp before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! If you have a bounty of fresh herbs, feel free to chop them finely and use them in place of the dried ones. Just remember you’ll want roughly three times the amount of fresh compared to dried for that same bold flavor.
What’s the best type Appetizer
Rustic breads like Italian baguette, ciabatta, or a sturdy sourdough really shine here. Anything crusty on the outside and chewy on the inside is perfect for scooping up all those delicious herbs and oil.
Can I make the herb blend in advance?
Yes! Mix up the dry herbs, garlic, and spices ahead of time, and stash in a tightly sealed jar. When company comes, simply add the olive oil and cheese for a quick, impressive appetizer in minutes.
Do I have to include the Parmesan cheese?
Not at all. If you’d like to keep it dairy-free or vegan, just skip the cheese. The dip is still packed with flavor thanks to the aromatic herb and spice mix.
How can I make it less spicy?
If you’re not a fan of heat, scale back or leave out the red pepper flakes. Or keep them on the side so everyone can add a pinch to their personal taste!
Final Thoughts
This Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil is proof that the simplest things can bring the most joy to the table. With just a few pantry staples, you can capture the magic of restaurant dining right in your own home. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new favorite way to kick off every Italian meal!
Print
Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Carrabba’s famous bread dipping oil right in the comfort of your own home. This savory herb-infused oil is perfect for dipping warm crusty bread and makes for a delightful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Herb Blend:
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Additional:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Create Herb Blend: In a small bowl, combine the dried basil, oregano, rosemary, parsley, red pepper flakes, garlic, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
- Assemble Dipping Oil: Place 1 tablespoon of the herb blend on a plate, pour olive oil over it, and stir gently. Add Parmesan if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy with warm bread for dipping. Store leftover herb blend in an airtight container.
Notes
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
- Adjust spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons oil with herbs
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
