Contents
- 1 My First Taste of Magic
- 2 A Little Kitchen Surprise
- 3 Why This Dip Works
- 4 A Dip With History
- 5 Ingredients:
- 6 Make Your Own Bread Dipping Spice Mix
- 7 Try These Tasty Twists
- 8 How to Serve Your Dipping Oil
- 9 Storing Your Spice Blend
- 10 Simple Fixes for Common Problems
- 11 Your Questions, Answered
- 12 Share Your Kitchen Success
- 13 Homemade Carrabba’s Style Bread Dipping Oil
My First Taste of Magic
The warm bread basket arrived. I dipped a crusty piece into that herby oil. The flavors exploded on my tongue. I knew I had to make this at home. Ever wonder how to bring that restaurant magic to your kitchen table? This simple mix does just that. It turns a basic meal into a special event. Your family will think you ordered takeout.
A Little Kitchen Surprise
My first try, I used regular salt. The texture was not quite right. Coarse sea salt makes a big difference. It adds a perfect little crunch. This matters because cooking is about trying again. Small changes create big flavors. Home cooking lets you control every detail. You make it just how you like it.
Why This Dip Works
Two things make this dip special. First, the fresh garlic gives a powerful kick. Second, the cracked pepper adds a spicy heat. These flavors blend so well with the oil. Which flavor combo surprises you most? Is it the herbs or the spice? Tell me in the comments below. I love reading your thoughts.
A Dip With History
This style of dipping oil comes from Italy. It started in rustic, countryside kitchens. Families used their own herbs and olive oil. It was a simple way to enjoy bread. *Did you know many Italian restaurants in America serve it?* It is a beloved start to any meal. Have you made your own version yet? Share your story with us.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crushed red pepper flakes | 1 tablespoon | |
| Freshly cracked black pepper | 1 tablespoon | |
| Dried oregano | 1 tablespoon | |
| Dried basil | 1 tablespoon | |
| Dried parsley | 1 tablespoon | |
| Garlic powder | 1 1/2 teaspoons | |
| Onion powder | 1 1/2 teaspoons | |
| Dried rosemary | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Coarse sea salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons | |
| Fresh garlic | 3 cloves | Freshly crushed or minced |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1/3 cup | For serving |
Make Your Own Bread Dipping Spice Mix
This mix brings the restaurant right to your table. It uses simple dried herbs and spices. You probably have them all in your cupboard already. Let’s get your dipping oil started.
Step 1 Grab a small bowl for mixing. Add all your dried herbs and spices. Include the fresh garlic you grated. Stir everything together very well. Step 2 Put one tablespoon of mix on a plate. Pour a third cup of olive oil over it. (A hard-learned tip: grate the garlic fresh for the best flavor). Save the rest of the mix for next time. What herb gives this mix its earthy, classic Italian flavor? Share below! Cook Time: 5 mins Total Time: 5 mins Yield: 4 servings Category: Appetizer, CondimentTry These Tasty Twists
Once you master the basic blend, get creative. A few small changes make it brand new. Your bread will thank you for the variety.
Sun-Dried Tomato Add a tablespoon of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes. It gives a sweet and tangy kick. Lemon Zest Mix in the zest from one whole lemon. It makes the oil taste fresh and bright. Spicy Heat Double the amount of red pepper flakes. Perfect for those who love a little fire. Which twist will you try first? Vote in the comments!How to Serve Your Dipping Oil
This oil is the star of any meal. Serve it with a warm, crusty loaf of bread. A simple side salad pairs nicely with it. It turns any dinner into a special event.
For drinks, try a glass of Chianti. A sparkling lemon water is great for a non-alcoholic choice. Both cut through the rich oil perfectly.
Which would you choose tonight, the wine or the sparkle?
Storing Your Spice Blend
Keep your spice mix in a cool, dark place. An airtight jar works best for freshness. It should last for several months this way. My own jar sits right next to the stove. This matters because light and heat make spices lose their flavor.
Simple Fixes for Common Problems
Is your oil too spicy? Just use fewer red pepper flakes next time. If the garlic tastes too sharp, try using garlic powder instead. Does the salt sink to the bottom? Give it a quick stir before dipping. What problem do you face most often with dips?
Your Questions, Answered
Can I make this gluten-free? Yes! The spice blend itself has no gluten. Just serve it with your favorite gluten-free bread.
How far ahead can I make the mix? You can make a big batch months ahead. It stores perfectly in your pantry.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic? Use an extra half teaspoon of garlic powder. It will still taste wonderful.
Can I use fresh herbs instead? I do not recommend it for the dry mix. Dried herbs give the right texture and strength.
Can I double this recipe? Absolutely! It is a great idea for a gift. Which friend would love a jar of this?
I love seeing your creations. It makes my day. Show me your bread-dipping setup at home. Tag Savory Discovery on Pinterest with your photos! Happy cooking! —Elowen Thorn.
Homemade Carrabba’s Style Bread Dipping Oil
Description
Get the special blend of spices to make Carrabba’s Olive Oil Bread Dip at home! I bet you already have everything you need in the pantry for this Italian bread dipping oil.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the 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 teaspoons dried rosemary, 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse sea salt and 3 cloves fresh garlic, grated. Mix well.
- If serving immediately, measure out about 1 tablespoons of the spice mixture into a shallow plate or bowl. Add 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil. Save the rest in an airtight container for another day!
- If you’ve made this recipe at home, come back and let us know how it was in the comments or star ratings!