When I’m in the mood for a savory, crowd-pleasing appetizer, look no further than this Carrabba’s Bread Dip inspired recipe. Infused with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, it’s the perfect dip to elevate any meal.
Serve this with freshly baked Carrabba’s Bread, and you’ll have your guests hooked! Let’s dive into how to make this simple yet delicious olive oil dip.
What so Special About Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
This simple yet flavorful Carrabba’s Bread Dip pairs perfectly with any type of bread, making it an ideal appetizer for any occasion. Whether served with a crusty Italian loaf or a soft baguette, the combination of garlic, fresh Carrabba’s Herb Mix, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil creates a rich, satisfying dip that’s loved by all.
Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also a healthier alternative to butter-based spreads, thanks to the heart-healthy olive oil. Its versatility and crowd-pleasing taste make it a go-to Carrabba’s Dipping Sauce Recipe for gatherings, as it elevates any meal without much effort.
Ingredients for Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
- 2 cloves of garlic (add extra if you want a more intense garlic flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of capers, drained and finely chopped (optional)
- ½ tsp. of dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons of fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons of finely grated Parmesan cheese
- A pinch of sea salt (use truffle salt if you want to take the flavor up a notch)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of spice)
- ½ cup of extra-virgin olive oil (plus more if needed)
Equipment & Tools Required
- Small mixing bowl
- Cheese grater (for Parmesan)
- Chopping board and knife
- Rimmed plate for serving
- Measuring spoons
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: None
How to Make Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
Step-01: Prepare the Garlic and Capers
Start by finely mincing the garlic cloves. You can use a garlic press to make it easier, or just chop them finely by hand. Next, chop the capers (if you’re using them). Capers add a bright, briny flavor, but feel free to omit them if they’re not available.
Step-02: Chop the Herbs
Gather your fresh rosemary and thyme, and chop them into small pieces. The fresh herbs will give the dip a vibrant, earthy flavor. Combine these with the dried oregano for an extra layer of taste.
Step-03: Grate the Parmesan Cheese
Using a fine cheese grater, grate about 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese. The cheese adds a savory, umami punch that blends beautifully with the garlic and herbs.
Step-04: Season the Dip
Add a pinch of sea salt (or truffle salt for an extra indulgent touch) and some freshly ground black pepper to the herb and garlic mixture. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Step-05: Mix the Ingredients
Stir everything together in a small mixing bowl. Make sure the flavors are well-combined and evenly distributed.
Step-06: Assemble the Dip
Spoon a few tablespoons of the mixture onto a rimmed plate or shallow dish. Pour 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil over the top of the mixture, allowing the herbs, garlic, and Parmesan to meld into the oil.
Serve the dip with freshly baked bread — a rustic Italian loaf works great! Keep the olive oil bottle nearby to top up the plate as needed.
Creative Serving Ideas for Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
1. Serve with a Variety of Freshly Baked Breads
Offer a selection of warm, crusty bread like ciabatta, focaccia, or a rustic Italian loaf. This allows guests to explore different textures and flavors with the Dipping Seasoning. The fresh bread will soak up the olive oil, enhancing its garlicky, herb-infused flavor.
2. Pair with a Charcuterie Board
Serve the dip alongside a charcuterie board filled with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables. The olive oil dip complements the richness of prosciutto, salami, and cheeses like Gouda and Brie, adding a flavorful Mediterranean touch to your platter.
3. Accompany with Roasted Vegetables
Use the Carrabba’s Olive Oil Dip as a flavorful drizzle for roasted vegetables. Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes work beautifully with the olive oil and herbs. This pairing makes for a colorful and healthy side dish.
4. Pair with Pasta Dishes
Offer the dip as an appetizer alongside hearty pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara or lasagna. The light and flavorful dip contrasts nicely with the richness of creamy or tomato-based sauces, providing a fresh start to a satisfying Italian meal.
5. Serve with Grilled Meats
Pair the bread dip with grilled chicken, steak, or lamb. The savory flavors of the garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese complement the smoky, charred taste of grilled meats. You can even drizzle some of the leftover dip on top of the meat for added flavor.
6. Use as a Salad Dressing Base
Transform the dip into a quick salad dressing by whisking in a bit of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice. Pour it over a simple mixed green salad with arugula, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. The olive oil and herbs elevate the freshness of the salad.
7. Dip Fresh Crudités
For a lighter, healthier option, serve the Carrabba’s Bread Dip with a variety of fresh, crisp vegetables like carrots, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers. The creamy olive oil dip adds a burst of flavor to the crunchy veggies.
8. Top Grilled Crostini
Slice and toast a baguette into crispy crostini, then drizzle the bread dip over the top for an easy and elegant appetizer. You can also add toppings like sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, or prosciutto to turn it into a gourmet bite.
9. Pair with Wine or Prosecco
This garlicky, herb-infused dip pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of Prosecco or a light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio. The acidity and freshness of the wine complement the rich olive oil and Parmesan flavors, making for an ideal pairing at dinner parties or gatherings.
10. Serve with Marinated Olives
Offer marinated olives, such as kalamata or green olives, alongside the Carrabba’s Olive Oil Dipping Sauce. The briny, tangy olives are a great flavor contrast to the rich, garlicky dip, creating a Mediterranean-inspired snack that’s perfect for sharing.
These serving and pairing ideas can turn a simple Carrabba’s Bread Dip into a versatile, crowd-pleasing feature at any meal or event!
URRecipe Community Tips on Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Always opt for fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor, giving the dip a more aromatic and vibrant taste. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs make a significant difference.
2. Adjust Garlic to Taste
Garlic is key to this dip, but raw garlic can be strong. Start with two cloves and taste before adding more. If you’re serving guests, it’s better to err on the side of less garlic since its pungency can intensify over time.
3. Choose High-Quality Olive Oil
The olive oil is the base of this dip, so use a high-quality, extra-virgin olive oil for the best results. The flavor of the oil really shines through, so avoid using cheap or overly processed varieties.
4. Chop Herbs and Garlic Finely
Make sure to chop the garlic and herbs very finely. Large chunks of garlic or herbs can overpower the other ingredients, and finely chopped pieces will mix better with the olive oil.
5. Serve with Warm, Fresh Bread
For the best experience, serve the dip with freshly baked, warm bread. Crusty Italian or rustic artisan loaves work perfectly. Warm bread absorbs the olive oil better and enhances the overall flavor.
6. Avoid Over-Salting
Be cautious with the salt, especially if using truffle salt or if your Parmesan cheese is quite salty. It’s easier to add more salt later than to fix an overly salty dip. Taste as you go!
7. Grate Parmesan Finely
Use a fine grater for the Parmesan cheese. This ensures it blends smoothly with the olive oil rather than sitting in clumps. Finely grated cheese also distributes the flavor evenly throughout the dip.
8. Keep the Olive Oil Bottle Handy
As the dip sits out, the bread will soak up the olive oil quickly. Keep the olive oil bottle nearby so you can top off the dip as needed, especially if serving to a large group.
9. Store Leftovers Properly
If you have leftover dip, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The olive oil will solidify when chilled, but it will return to liquid when brought to room temperature. Re-stir the ingredients before serving.
10. Serve Immediately After Preparation
For the best flavor, serve the dip immediately after making it. While you can prepare the herb mixture in advance, adding the olive oil too early may cause the herbs to lose their freshness. Assemble the dip just before serving for peak flavor and presentation.
By following these tips and taking a few precautions, your Carrabba’s Bread Dip will turn out perfectly every time!
How to Store Leftover Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
To store Carrabba’s Bread Dip, transfer the herb, garlic, and Parmesan mixture (without the olive oil) into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When ready to serve, add fresh olive oil to the mixture. The olive oil can solidify in the fridge, so it’s best added right before serving to maintain the dip’s smooth texture and flavor. Stir well before enjoying.
Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cloves of garlic add extra if you want a more intense garlic flavor
- 2 tablespoons of capers drained and finely chopped (optional)
- ½ tsp. of dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons of fresh rosemary finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons of finely grated Parmesan cheese
- A pinch of sea salt use truffle salt if you want to take the flavor up a notch
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes optional, for a bit of spice
- ½ cup of extra-virgin olive oil plus more if needed
Instructions
- Start by finely mincing the garlic cloves. You can use a garlic press to make it easier, or just chop them finely by hand. Next, chop the capers (if you’re using them). Capers add a bright, briny flavor, but feel free to omit them if they’re not available.
- Gather your fresh rosemary and thyme, and chop them into small pieces. The fresh herbs will give the dip a vibrant, earthy flavor. Combine these with the dried oregano for an extra layer of taste.
- Using a fine cheese grater, grate about 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese. The cheese adds a savory, umami punch that blends beautifully with the garlic and herbs.
- Add a pinch of sea salt (or truffle salt for an extra indulgent touch) and some freshly ground black pepper to the herb and garlic mixture. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Stir everything together in a small mixing bowl. Make sure the flavors are well-combined and evenly distributed.
- Spoon a few tablespoons of the mixture onto a rimmed plate or shallow dish. Pour 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil over the top of the mixture, allowing the herbs, garlic, and Parmesan to meld into the oil.
- Serve the dip with freshly baked bread — a rustic Italian loaf works great! Keep the olive oil bottle nearby to top up the plate as needed.
Video
Notes
Common queries on Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
These commonly asked questions and their short answers will give you an better understanding of this Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
1. What is Carrabba’s Bread Dip made of?
Carrabba’s Bread Dip is a flavorful combination of minced garlic, capers, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, dried oregano, finely grated Parmesan cheese, sea salt, fresh ground pepper, and extra-virgin olive oil. Optional ingredients include crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
2. What is bread dip made of?
Bread dip typically consists of a base of olive oil infused with herbs, garlic, and spices. Common ingredients include fresh or dried herbs like oregano, rosemary, and thyme, garlic, salt, pepper, and sometimes grated Parmesan cheese or balsamic vinegar for added flavor.
3. What kind of bread do you dip in wine?
When dipping bread in wine, people often use crusty breads like ciabatta, baguette, or sourdough. These types of bread have a sturdy texture that can hold up well when soaked in wine, without becoming overly soggy.
4. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic and herb mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the olive oil just before serving to preserve the fresh flavors.
5. What can I use as a substitute for capers?
If you don’t have capers on hand, you can substitute with chopped green olives for a similar briny flavor. You can also omit the capers altogether, and the dip will still be delicious.
6. Is this bread dip vegan?
This recipe contains Parmesan cheese, which is not vegan. However, you can easily make it vegan by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast to achieve a cheesy flavor.
7. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Yes, dried herbs can be used if you don’t have fresh ones available. Just reduce the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. For example, use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or thyme in place of 2 teaspoons of fresh herbs.
8. How long does the dip last?
Once prepared, the bread dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. However, the flavors are best when served fresh. Be sure to bring the dip to room temperature before serving if it has been chilled.
9. Can I make this dip spicy?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicy version of Carrabba’s Bread Dip, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to taste. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
10. What is the best bread to serve with Carrabba’s Bread Dip?
The best bread for dipping is a crusty Italian or rustic loaf, such as ciabatta or sourdough. These breads have a hearty texture that absorbs the olive oil without falling apart, making them ideal for dipping.
This Carrabba’s Bread Dip is an absolute lifesaver when you’re hosting a gathering or need a quick, flavorful snack. The olive oil serves as a rich, silky base for the bold flavors of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese.
Whether it’s a casual dinner with friends or a more formal affair, this dip is versatile and always well-received. Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, making it a no-fuss addition to any meal.
Make sure to have extra bread on hand because once people start dipping, they won’t be able to stop!
Enjoy this delightful dip and wow your guests with its restaurant-quality flavor.
Feel free to contact us, and be sure to follow URRecipe on Pinterest for a variety of delightful recipes!
delicious
Thanks
so simple
thanks for the recipe
Welcome mam
how long can I store it?
better not to store, more than 3 days