Hey everyone, welcome back! Today, I’ve got something super fun and delicious for you. How many of you have been to Carrabba’s and just couldn’t get enough of that amazing olive oil and herb mixture they serve with the bread? It’s so good, you could practically make a meal out of it alone!
Well, guess what? I’ve got a copycat recipe for you that’s as close as it gets to that iconic Carrabba’s herb and oil mixture. So, let’s dive in and make this mouthwatering bread Dipping Seasoning that’ll have you saying “Oh yeah, baby!” in no time.
Delicious Carrabba’s Olive Oil Bread Dip
Craving Carrabba’s iconic olive oil bread dip? Make this easy copycat recipe at home! Heat 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil in a pan and gently sauté 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant and golden.
Add 1 teaspoon minced dehydrated onion, ½ teaspoon each of dried basil, thyme, and parsley, plus dashes of oregano, marjoram, red pepper flakes, and fresh cracked pepper. Let the herbs bloom, then drizzle in more olive oil dip. Serve with warm bread and enjoy this flavorful, restaurant-quality dip at home!
Ingredients for Carrabba’s Olive Oil Bread Dip Recipe
- 1-2 teaspoons olive oil (use your favorite for full flavor)
- 2 large cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon minced dehydrated onion
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- A dash of dried oregano
- A dash of dried marjoram
- A dash of red pepper flakes
- A few grinds of fresh cracked pepper
Equipment & Tools Required
- Small pan
- Garlic press or knife for mincing
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Plate for serving
- Small bowl for mixing
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Recipe for Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil
Step-01: Heat the Olive Oil and Garlic
Pour 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil into a small pan. Mince 2 large cloves of garlic and add them to the pan. Cook on low heat until the garlic is fragrant and just turning golden.
Step-02: Add Herbs and Spices
Mix in 1 teaspoon of minced dehydrated onion, and ½ teaspoon each of dried basil, thyme, and parsley. Add a dash of dried oregano, marjoram, red pepper flakes, and a few grinds of black pepper.
Step-03: Bloom the Flavors
Stir the mixture over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, just until the herbs release their aroma and flavors. Be careful not to burn the garlic or herbs.
Step-04: Remove from Heat
Take the pan off the heat and transfer the mixture to a plate. Drizzle more of your favorite olive oil over the herb mixture and serve it with warm bread for dipping. Enjoy!
Also check my favorite Carrabba’s Olive Oil Dipping Sauce Recipe
Creative Serving Ideas for Carrabba’s Olive Oil Bread Dip
1. Classic Italian Dinner: Serve the olive oil bread dip as an appetizer at an Italian-themed dinner. Pair it with a classic pasta dish like spaghetti marinara or fettuccine Alfredo.
2. Bruschetta Bar: Create a bruschetta bar with various toppings (e.g., tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella) alongside the olive oil dip. Guests can enjoy dipping fresh bread and customizing their bruschetta.
3. Cheese Platter: Pair the dip with a cheese platter featuring a selection of cheeses such as Parmesan, mozzarella, and provolone. Add some olives, nuts, and cured meats for an elegant touch.
4. Mediterranean Spread: Serve the dip with a Mediterranean spread that includes hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh. Fresh pita bread or warm flatbreads make perfect accompaniments.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Use the olive oil dip as a delicious side for a platter of grilled vegetables. Think zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a healthy and flavorful pairing.
6. Seafood Starter: Offer the dip as a starter alongside seafood dishes like grilled shrimp, calamari, or baked fish. The olive oil complements the flavors of seafood beautifully.
7. Salad Companion: Serve the dip with a fresh garden salad or a hearty salad like Greek or Caesar Salad. The bread dip adds a delightful touch to a light meal.
8. Charcuterie Board: Add the olive oil dip to a charcuterie board featuring a variety of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and pickles. It’s a great addition for entertaining guests.
URRecipe Community Tips on Carrabba’s Olive Oil Bread Dip Recipe
1. Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, always use fresh garlic. Pre-minced garlic can lack the robust taste that fresh garlic provides.
2. Monitor Garlic Closely: Garlic can burn quickly, so keep the heat low and stir constantly. The goal is to get it fragrant and slightly golden, not brown and bitter.
3. Choose Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of the dip largely depends on the quality of the olive oil. Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
4. Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier dip, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. For a milder flavor, use less or omit them entirely.
5. Bloom the Herbs: Ensure you gently heat the herbs and spices to release their essential oils. This blooming process enhances the flavor of the dip.
6. Avoid Overheating: Don’t let the olive oil get too hot before adding the garlic and herbs. High heat can cause the garlic to burn and the herbs to become bitter.
7. Mix and Match Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your preference. Fresh herbs can also be used in place of dried ones, just adjust the quantity accordingly.
8. Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the dip immediately while it’s still warm. The flavors are at their peak right after preparation.
9. Pair with Fresh Bread: Use a crusty loaf of bread, such as Italian or French bread, for dipping. The texture of the bread complements the dip beautifully.
10. Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving to restore the flavors.
How to Store Leftover Carrabba’s Olive Oil Bread Dip?
To store leftover Carrabba’s olive oil bread dip, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To refresh the flavors before serving, gently reheat the dip on low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid overheating to preserve the garlic and herb taste.
Carrabba’s Olive Oil Bread Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- 1-2 teaspoons olive oil use your favorite for full flavor
- 2 large cloves of garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon minced dehydrated onion
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- A dash of dried oregano
- A dash of dried marjoram
- A dash of red pepper flakes
- A few grinds of fresh cracked pepper
Instructions
- Pour 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil into a small pan. Mince 2 large cloves of garlic and add them to the pan. Cook on low heat until the garlic is fragrant and just turning golden.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon of minced dehydrated onion, and ½ teaspoon each of dried basil, thyme, and parsley. Add a dash of dried oregano, marjoram, red pepper flakes, and a few grinds of black pepper.
- Stir the mixture over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, just until the herbs release their aroma and flavors. Be careful not to burn the garlic or herbs.
- Take the pan off the heat and transfer the mixture to a plate. Drizzle more of your favorite olive oil over the herb mixture and serve it with warm bread for dipping. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
Common queries on Carrabba’s Olive Oil Bread Dip Recipe
These commonly asked questions and their short answers will give you an better understanding of this Carrabba’s Olive Oil Bread Dip Recipe
1. What is Carrabba’s bread dip made of?
Carrabba’s bread dip is a flavorful blend of high-quality olive oil mixed with minced garlic, dried herbs (such as basil, thyme, and parsley), and spices like red pepper flakes and black pepper. This combination creates a savory and aromatic dip perfect for bread.
2. What type of bread is used for dipping in olive oil?
Typically, crusty bread such as Italian bread, French baguette, or ciabatta is used for dipping. These types of bread have a hearty texture that holds up well to the olive oil dip and enhances the overall experience.
3. Do Italians eat bread dipped in olive oil?
Yes, dipping bread in olive oil is a common practice in Italy. It’s a traditional way to enjoy the rich flavors of high-quality olive oil, often seasoned with herbs and spices, as a simple yet delicious appetizer.
4. Can I use pre-minced garlic for this recipe?
While pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch, fresh garlic provides a more robust and aromatic flavor. For the best results, it’s recommended to use fresh garlic cloves and mince them yourself.
5. How long can I store leftover olive oil dip?
Leftover olive oil dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to reheat it gently before serving to restore its flavors.
6. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
Yes, dried herbs are used in this recipe, but you can also use fresh herbs if preferred. Just remember to adjust the quantity as fresh herbs are generally more potent than dried ones.
7. Is it necessary to heat the olive oil before adding the garlic?
Heating the olive oil before adding the garlic helps release the flavors and aromas. However, ensure the oil is not too hot to avoid burning the garlic. A gentle heat is ideal.
8. What can I do if I accidentally burn the garlic?
If the garlic burns, it can impart a bitter taste to the dip. In such cases, it’s best to start over with fresh ingredients. Keep the heat low and stir frequently to avoid burning.
9. Can I adjust the spiciness of the dip?
Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of red pepper flakes. For a milder dip, use less or omit the red pepper flakes. For a spicier kick, add more according to your taste.
10. Can this olive oil dip be used for anything other than bread?
Absolutely! This olive oil dip can also be drizzled over grilled vegetables, used as a marinade for meats, or served with pasta dishes for added flavor.
And that’s it! A simple yet incredibly flavorful olive oil bread dip, just like the one at Carrabba’s. The aroma, the taste, the texture—it’s all there, and it’s perfect for impressing your guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how it turned out for you. Enjoy, and happy dipping!
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So simple. thanks
Thanks