If you’ve ever found yourself craving that perfect blend of herbs and olive oil to accompany warm, crusty bread, then you’re in for a treat with this Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe. It’s incredibly simple yet wonderfully flavorful, combining classic Italian herbs and spices that dance together in a rich extra virgin olive oil base. This blend is not only a nostalgia trip for fans of the restaurant but also an easy, elegant addition to any meal or gathering that will have everyone reaching for more bread and coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe lies in a handful of straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each bring a special something to the table. From earthy herbs to a touch of heat, every single element enhances the texture, aroma, and depth of flavor to create that unforgettable dip.
- Dried basil: Brings a sweet and slightly peppery note that feels quintessentially Italian.
- Dried parsley: Adds a fresh, slightly grassy flavor to balance the mix.
- Garlic powder: Delivers savory depth and that unmistakable garlic warmth without overpowering.
- Dried rosemary: Offers a pine-like fragrance and subtle woodsy taste.
- Dried oregano: Infuses a peppery and slightly bitter edge to round out the herbs.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Introduces a gentle kick to awaken your taste buds.
- Ground black pepper: Adds mild heat and sharpness that enhances all other spices.
- Kosher salt: Brings out the natural flavors and balances the oil’s richness.
- Onion powder: Provides a sweet and subtle pungency that layers well with garlic.
- Dried thyme: Gives a lightly minty and lemony touch that brightens the profile.
- Dried sage: Offers an earthy, slightly peppery depth that grounds the mix.
- Extra virgin olive oil: The silky, fruity base that carries all herbs and spices beautifully.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a salty umami kick that’s perfect if you love cheesy richness.
- Warm crusty bread: The star that soaks up the flavorful oil, making every bite irresistible.
How to Make Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
Step 1: Create the Herb Seasoning Blend
Start by combining all the dried herbs and spices—basil, parsley, garlic powder, rosemary, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, kosher salt, onion powder, thyme, and sage—in a small bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until well blended. This herb mix is the base of your dipping oil and can be prepared in bulk to save time later.
Step 2: Prepare for Serving
When you’re ready to enjoy, place about one teaspoon of the herb seasoning mix onto a small dipping plate. Pour approximately half a cup of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the herbs and gently swirl or stir to combine. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a beautifully aromatic oil perfect for dipping.
Step 3: Add Optional Parmesan
If you’re a fan of extra savory notes, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. This optional step enhances the oil with a creamy, salty richness that perfectly complements the herbs and olive oil. Serve immediately while warm bread is ready for dunking.
How to Serve Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, consider adding a few fresh herb sprigs like basil or parsley on the side to brighten the presentation and hint at the flavors inside the oil. A light dusting of cracked black pepper on top can give it a rustic, restaurant-style appearance.
Side Dishes
This herb-infused olive oil pairs beautifully with a wide range of Italian dishes. Whether it’s alongside a bowl of rich pasta, a fresh salad, or antipasto platter, the dipping oil brings a burst of flavor that complements and enhances every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of a simple plate, try serving the oil in a small, shallow bowl alongside an artisan bread basket filled with sourdough, ciabatta, or baguette slices. For gatherings, individual dipping cups for each guest add a personalized and hygienic touch. You can also drizzle a little of the dipping oil over roasted vegetables or grilled meats for an added flavor boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The dried herb seasoning blend can be stored in an airtight container or spice jar for several weeks, making it incredibly convenient to whip up Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe whenever you need a quick appetizer or snack. Just keep it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Freezing
Because the herb blend is dry, it doesn’t require freezing. For any prepared dipping oil, freezing is not recommended as it could alter the texture and flavor of the olive oil. Freshly preparing the oregano and herb blend with oil just before serving is always best.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this dipping oil since it’s meant to be served at room temperature or slightly warm if paired with fresh bread. If you want to gently warm it, place the plate or bowl in a warm spot or very briefly near a gentle heat source, but avoid microwaving, which can degrade the olive oil’s delicate flavors.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Fresh herbs have a different moisture content and flavor intensity, so while you can substitute fresh herbs, the balance may change. This Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe is designed with dried herbs to ensure a consistent and concentrated flavor.
What type of bread works best for dipping?
Crusty, warm bread such as ciabatta, sourdough, or baguette works best as their texture soaks up the oil perfectly without getting soggy too quickly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The dipping oil itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to pair it with gluten-free bread if you have dietary restrictions.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. You can reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder oil or add a little more if you prefer extra heat.
How long does the herb mix last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the dry herb mix can stay fresh for up to 3 months, though the flavors may gradually decline over time.
Final Thoughts
I can honestly say that this Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe is a total game changer when it comes to transforming simple bread into a flavorful experience. It’s fast, fuss-free, and full of that warm, inviting taste that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Whether for a casual snack or a fancy appetizer, don’t hesitate to make this a staple in your kitchen. Grab your herbs and olive oil, warm up that bread, and dive into a little slice of Italy anytime you want!
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Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil is a flavorful Italian herb seasoning blend combined with extra virgin olive oil, perfect for dipping warm, crusty bread. This no-cook appetizer captures the essence of classic restaurant-style bread dips with aromatic herbs and a touch of spice, delivering a delicious start to any meal.
Ingredients
Herb Seasoning Blend
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
For Serving
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Warm crusty bread for dipping
Instructions
- Make the Herb Blend: In a small bowl, combine the dried basil, parsley, garlic powder, rosemary, oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, kosher salt, onion powder, thyme, and sage. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended. Store this seasoning blend in an airtight container for future use.
- Prepare the Dip: When ready to serve, place about 1 teaspoon of the herb seasoning mix onto a small serving plate. Pour extra virgin olive oil over the herbs and gently swirl the oil and seasoning together to combine evenly.
- Optional Garnish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the oil and herb mixture for added richness and flavor, if desired.
- Serve: Immediately serve the dipping oil alongside warm, crusty bread. Dip the bread into the oil mixture and enjoy the aromatic, savory flavors characteristic of Italian cuisine.
Notes
- The herb blend can be prepared in bulk and stored in a sealed spice jar for convenient use anytime.
- For optimal taste, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- This dipping oil has no cook time and comes together quickly, making it perfect for last-minute appetizers.
- If you prefer a milder heat, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Store leftover dipping oil refrigerated if mixed, and bring to room temperature before serving again.
