Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful way to elevate your bread game, this Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe is just what you need! Imagine dipping warm, crusty bread into a fragrant blend of olive oil and spices. It’s like a little taste of Italy right in your own kitchen. This recipe is so simple that you can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, it’s a hit at dinner parties; everyone loves the irresistible aroma and flavor!

This dish is not only quick to prepare but also allows you to impress your guests without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal at home or hosting friends, this dip will surely have everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: You can prepare this delicious dip in just five minutes—no fuss involved!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of spices creates a flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
• Good for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an appetizer or a side dish, this dip fits right into any meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the spice mixture ahead of time and just add olive oil when you’re ready to serve!
• Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it with bread, veggies, or even drizzled over salads for an extra kick.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Most likely, you already have them in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need for this flavorful Italian bread dipping oil.

For the Spice Mix:

• 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
• 3 cloves fresh garlic (freshly crushed or minced)

For the Dipping Oil:

• extra virgin olive oil

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with the spices or add your personal touch.

• Add Some Zest: Incorporate some lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Herb It Up: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro for a unique flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some cayenne pepper.
• Cheesy Delight: Grate some Parmesan cheese on top of the dip before serving for an added layer of richness.

How to Make Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe

Step 1: Combine Your Spices

Start by mixing together all those wonderful spices! In a bowl, combine the crushed red pepper flakes, cracked black pepper, oregano, basil, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, dried rosemary, coarse sea salt, and freshly crushed garlic. This step is crucial as it blends all those delicious flavors together. Take a moment to appreciate how aromatic your kitchen is becoming!

Step 2: Prepare the Dipping Oil

Now that your spice mix is ready, it’s time to bring it all together! If you’re serving immediately, take about 1 tablespoon of the spice mixture and place it in a shallow plate or bowl. Then pour in about 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil. Give it a gentle stir so that the spices infuse into the oil beautifully. If you made extra spice mix, store it in an airtight container for another day—trust me; you’ll want to make this again!

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!

Gather your favorite bread—crusty baguette or soft focaccia works wonders—and dive into this delightful dipping experience. If you’ve made this recipe at home, I would love to hear how it turned out! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments or leave a star rating. Enjoy every mouthful of this Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe

Making this delicious bread dipping oil is a breeze, but a few handy tips can take it from good to unforgettable!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil enhance the flavors significantly, creating a more vibrant and aromatic dip.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. This allows everyone to enjoy it according to their taste preferences.
• Let it sit: Allowing the mixture to rest for at least 30 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer taste experience.
• Experiment with oils: While extra virgin olive oil is traditional, you can try infused oils (like garlic or herb-infused) for an extra layer of flavor that makes your dip unique.
• Store properly: Keep any leftover spice mix in an airtight container away from light and heat. This will keep your spices fresh and ready for next time!

How to Serve Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe

Presenting this delightful dip is all about creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages sharing and enjoying together.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley on top adds color and freshness while enhancing the Italian flair.
• Grated cheese: For those who enjoy cheese, a light dusting of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can add a salty richness that complements the olive oil.

Side Dishes

• Bruschetta: This classic Italian appetizer made from toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction pairs perfectly with your dipping oil.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella slices, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side that balances the richness of the dip.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side dish that complements the flavors of your bread dipping oil delightfully.
• Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish tossed with seasonal vegetables offers a wonderful pairing that brings out the herby notes in your dipping oil.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil! Whether it’s for a cozy dinner at home or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to whip up a flavorful dip whenever you’re in the mood for a taste of Italy. You can prepare the spice mix in advance and enjoy fresh bread dipping oil anytime!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover spice mixture in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Keep the olive oil blend covered in the refrigerator if not used immediately; it should last about a week.
• Remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving, as olive oil can solidify when chilled.

Freezing

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the spice mixture for longer storage.
• Portion the spices into ice cube trays, cover with olive oil, and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container, and use them as needed.

Reheating

• If you’ve stored your olive oil blend in the fridge, simply let it sit at room temperature until it returns to its liquid state.
• For quicker use, you can gently warm it on low heat on the stove (do not boil) before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe.

Can I make this Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe without garlic?

Absolutely! If you’re not fond of garlic or want a milder flavor, you can simply omit the fresh garlic. The other spices will still create a delightful dipping experience.

How long does this Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe stay fresh?

When stored properly, the spice mixture can last for several months in an airtight container at room temperature. The olive oil dip is best consumed within a week if refrigerated.

Can I customize the spices in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to adjust the amounts of spices according to your taste preferences. Adding herbs like thyme or substituting different pepper varieties can give your dipping oil a unique twist.

What’s the best bread to serve with this dipping oil?

Ciabatta, focaccia, or even crusty baguettes are excellent choices! Their textures soak up the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe brings joy and flavor to your meals! It’s such a simple yet delightful way to elevate any gathering or cozy dinner at home. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite bread and share your experiences with us. Enjoy every dip!