Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
Introduction
Hola! I’m Emma, and if you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls head over heels for bold, soul-warming flavors, well, you’re about to find out. One of my favorite restaurant memories is dipping warm, crusty bread into that golden pool of olive oil at Carrabba’s. It’s simple yet irresistible, packed with herbs, garlic, and balsamic vinegar that instantly transport you to an Italian trattoria. Today, I’m showing you how to make Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil at home. This bread dipping oil recipe is easy, bursting with fresh flavors, and perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in.
Quick Recipe Overview Table
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty | Cuisine | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 mins | None | 16 mins | 8 | Easy | Italian | All year |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-style at home – Recreate the Carrabba’s experience right in your kitchen without leaving the house.
- Perfect for entertaining – A simple starter that instantly elevates your breadbasket for dinner parties or family gatherings.
- Customizable flavors – Adjust the herbs and garlic to suit your taste and make it uniquely yours.
- Quick and easy – Just whisk, rest, and serve—no cooking required.
- Versatile use – Not only for bread, this dipping oil doubles as a drizzle for roasted veggies or grilled chicken.
Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe – Italian-Inspired Flavor at Home
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil is a quick and flavorful Italian-style dip made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs. Perfect with warm crusty bread for an easy restaurant-style appetizer at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
2. Add the minced garlic, oregano, and basil; season with salt and black pepper.
3. Whisk until well combined.
4. Let the mixture rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
5. Serve in small dishes alongside warm crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
Use high-quality olive oil for the richest flavor.
Letting the oil rest helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Add red pepper flakes for a little spice.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 30g
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Ingredients List
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
| Extra virgin olive oil | Use high-quality cold-pressed olive oil for the best flavor. |
| Balsamic vinegar | Aged balsamic gives a deeper sweetness that balances the garlic. |
| Garlic | Freshly minced garlic releases natural oils that enhance the dip. |
| Oregano | Dried oregano has a concentrated flavor perfect for dipping oils. |
| Basil | If available, use fresh basil for extra aroma and color. |
| Salt & pepper | A pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper make all the difference. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the base – In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Add flavor – Stir in minced garlic, oregano, and basil.
- Season – Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Whisk – Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Rest – Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve – Pour into small dipping dishes and serve with warm, crusty bread.
Helpful Tips
- Always let the oil rest before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Warm your bread slightly before serving for maximum enjoyment.
- Use a shallow dish so the herbs and garlic don’t sink to the bottom.
- Double the recipe for large gatherings—it disappears fast!
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Choose quality olive oil – The richness of the oil is the foundation of this recipe.
- Crush the garlic lightly – It releases more natural juices and intensifies the flavor.
- Balance acidity – Adjust balsamic vinegar to your preference for tanginess.
- Presentation matters – Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Cheesy Twist – Stir in grated Parmesan for extra richness.
- Herb Lovers – Mix in thyme, rosemary, or parsley for more depth.
- Citrus Zest – A touch of lemon or orange zest brightens the flavors.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
This dipping oil can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply let it come to room temperature and whisk before serving. Freezing isn’t recommended, as olive oil solidifies and alters texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bread dipping oil in small shallow bowls alongside a basket of warm, crusty bread such as ciabatta or baguette. For a rustic Italian vibe, drizzle extra oil across a wooden serving board and scatter fresh herbs around.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this dip with a glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot. It also works beautifully alongside antipasto platters, cheeses, or even grilled vegetables. For a lighter option, enjoy with sparkling water infused with lemon.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes and whisk to recombine. Avoid reheating in the microwave—just let the natural oils soften.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes! Fresh herbs add a vibrant color and aroma. Just remember they don’t last as long in storage.
2. What type of olive oil works best?
Always choose extra virgin olive oil—it has a rich, fruity flavor that makes the dip shine.
3. How long should I let the oil rest?
At least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor, prepare it a few hours in advance.
4. Can I make this oil without vinegar?
Yes, skip the vinegar for a lighter, purely herbed olive oil dip.
5. How do I keep the garlic from overpowering the dip?
Use freshly minced garlic and allow resting time—it mellows the sharpness.
6. Can I use flavored olive oils?
Absolutely! Garlic-infused or chili-infused olive oils can elevate the dip.
7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Just serve with gluten-free bread for a complete option.
Nutrition Info Table + Disclaimer
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
| 30g | 240 | 0g | 0g | 27g | 0g | 0g |
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
This Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil recipe is your ticket to enjoying restaurant-style flavor at home. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you’ll create a dip that’s irresistible, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a family favorite!
