Delicious Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil

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There’s something so comforting about tearing into warm crusty bread and dipping it into an aromatic pool of seasoned olive oil. If you’ve ever been to Carrabba’s Italian Grill, you know the joy of their signature bread dipping oil – herby, garlicky, and irresistible. Now you can bring that same restaurant experience to your own table with this easy and flavorful copycat version.

This Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil is all about simplicity meeting bold taste. With a blend of dried herbs, fresh garlic, and quality extra virgin olive oil, it transforms ordinary bread into something crave-worthy. Perfect for dinner parties, date nights at home, or simply indulging on your own, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil

You’ll love this recipe because it takes just minutes to prepare but feels fancy enough to elevate any meal. The herb blend keeps well in your pantry, so you can whip this up any time guests drop by. It’s also endlessly customizable—spice it up, make it garlickier, or add a touch of heat. Best of all, it instantly adds a restaurant-style touch to homemade dinners.

What Kind of Olive Oil Should I Use?

Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Since this recipe is uncooked, the taste of the oil really shines through. Go for something fruity and robust to pair well with the herbs. If you want to splurge a little, this is the place to do it—a good olive oil makes all the difference.

Ingredients for the Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil

A great dipping oil is only as good as the ingredients that go into it. In this case, we keep it simple but flavorful, using herbs and spices most of us already have in our kitchens.

• Dried basil – Adds warm, peppery depth to the oil.
• Dried parsley – Brings a fresh, slightly grassy note.
• Dried oregano – Gives it that classic Mediterranean aroma.
• Garlic powder – For subtle, even garlic flavor throughout.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – A pinch for gentle heat.
• Salt – Enhances every other ingredient.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Adds sharpness and a bit of bite.
• Minced fresh garlic – This is the star, bringing pungent, mouthwatering flavor.
• Extra virgin olive oil – Rich, fruity, and the base of the whole experience.

How To Make the Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil

Step 1: Make the Herb Blend

In a small bowl, mix together the dried basil, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. This will be your dry herb mix. You can make extra and store it in an airtight jar for future use.

Step 2: Add Fresh Garlic

Stir in freshly minced garlic to the herb blend. The fresh garlic adds a vibrant kick that makes this dip taste restaurant-quality.

Step 3: Pour the Olive Oil

Transfer the mixture to a shallow serving dish and pour the olive oil over it. Stir gently to let the herbs infuse the oil. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Serve with Bread

Serve with warm, crusty bread—Italian loaf, ciabatta, or baguette slices all work beautifully. Dip and enjoy every garlicky bite.

Serving and Storing This Dipping Oil

This dipping oil serves 4 to 6 people, depending on how much bread you’re serving alongside. It’s great as a starter, a side for pasta night, or even as a light snack with a glass of wine.

If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate the mix for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving again, and bring it to room temperature to loosen the oil for dipping. Avoid storing it too long due to the fresh garlic, which can become bitter or spoil over time.

What to Serve With Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil?

Crusty Artisan Bread

You can’t go wrong with a warm, crusty loaf. Try sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta.

Easy Chicken Fried Rice

A surprising pairing, but the savory notes of the oil can balance out a cozy dish like easy chicken fried rice.

Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak

If you’re going for a full steak dinner, this oil makes an elegant starter. Try it before serving creamy mushroom sauce over steak.

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Bright and zesty, this soup and the herbed oil are a lovely match.

Crispy and Delicious Chinese Egg Rolls

Pair with egg rolls for a multi-cultural appetizer spread.

Skirt Steak Rice Bowls

A fresh, meaty bowl like the skirt steak rice bowl with chimichurri can easily start with bread and dipping oil on the table.

Mixed Olive Tapenade

Serve the dipping oil alongside a tapenade for a Mediterranean tasting board.

Fresh Caprese Salad

The herbaceous oil complements ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil perfectly.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you loved this Carrabba’s bread dipping oil, you might also enjoy these easy appetizers and flavorful starters:

• Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese for cheesy comfort in every bite.
• Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni as a main dish that follows your appetizer beautifully.
• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup for a warm and hearty starter.
• Air Fryer Pizza Toast for a quick and satisfying nibble.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it whenever you need a quick and delicious dip.

Let me know in the comments if you added Parmesan, infused the oil with rosemary, or made it spicier. I love hearing how everyone gives their own twist to classic favorites.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and appetizers on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new favorite go-to!

Conclusion

Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil is more than a condiment—it’s an experience. Whether you’re serving it for guests or savoring it solo, it has a way of making simple bread feel special. Make it once and you’ll see why it deserves a regular spot in your kitchen.

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