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If you’ve ever sat down at Carrabba’s and started dipping that warm bread into their Italian Herb Olive Oil, you know how quickly it disappears. It’s simple, but somehow so good. This homemade version gives you those same flavors using pantry spices you likely already have on hand. No special ingredients, no complicated steps. Just mix, pour, and serve.
I can remember when Carrabba’s first opened in our area, and my whole family went crazy over this dipping oil. We kept saying how simple it seemed, and I knew we had to have a way to make it at home.
This is one of those recipes I love keeping in my back pocket. It takes just a couple of minutes to put together, but it makes even a simple meal feel a little more special. Perfect for busy nights, last-minute guests, or just when you want something easy to snack on.
Why Everyone Loves These Italian Dipping Herbs
If you’ve ever had Carrabba’s dipping oil, you already know how good this is. This version keeps things simple and brings those same flavors right into your kitchen.
❥ Just like the restaurant favorite. That classic herb and olive oil combo you love.
❥ Pantry-friendly. Made with simple dried herbs and seasonings you likely already have.
❥ Quick and easy. Takes just a couple of minutes to mix together.
❥ Great to keep on hand. Make the herb blend ahead and use it whenever you need it.
Tips Before You Get Started…
- If your dried herbs have been sitting in the cabinet for a while, you may want to refresh them for the best flavor. Make sure to check the dates on the bottle.
- Crush the rosemary between your fingers if the pieces are large, so they blend better into the oil.
Ingredients
Let’s talk through a few of these, so you get the best flavor.
- Dried Parsley, Basil, Oregano: These build that classic Italian herb flavor.
- Crushed Rosemary – Adds a deeper, slightly earthy flavor. I buy the crushed dried blend because the pieces are smaller.
- Granulated Garlic and Onion Powder: Gives that savory base without needing fresh ingredients.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adds just a little heat. You can adjust this to taste.
- Salt and Black Pepper: I like a fine kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper to give the best
- Olive Oil: Since this is the base of the dip, use one you enjoy. A good olive oil really makes a difference here.
How To Make Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil
✱ Be sure to see the recipe card below for exact ingredients and full recipe instructions!
Step 1: Mix the herbs
In a small bowl, stir together all of the dried herbs and seasonings until well combined.
I like to store my herbs in a jar and mix them with the oil when I am ready to use them.
Step 2: Add oil and serve
Add about 1 teaspoon of the herb mixture to a shallow dish.
Pour 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the top and give it a light swirl. I use 2 tablespoons, but you can easily adjust to your taste.
Serve with sliced crusty bread.
Easy Variations and Add-Ins
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried. Just use three times the amount listed.
- Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
- Drizzle in a little balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Add extra red pepper flakes if you like a little more heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are the expert tips so you’ll get the same delicious flavor you get at the restaurant.
- Don’t use old spices. Dried herbs lose flavor over time, so fresh spices will give you the best results.
- Not crushing the rosemary. Larger pieces won’t soften as well in the oil, so breaking them down helps. Smaller pieces taste better on the palate.
- Don’t skip the rest time. Letting the herbs sit in the oil for a few minutes helps the flavors develop.
- Use a good-quality and good-tasting olive oil. Since it’s such a key part of the recipe, a good olive oil makes a big difference.
- Don’t add too much herb mix at once. Start with the recommended ratio and adjust to taste.
What to Serve With Carrabba’s Dipping Oil
- Crusty Italian bread or baguette. Perfect for dipping and soaking up all that flavor.
- Semi-Homemade Breadsticks: These are made with frozen dough and taste amazing!
- Try my Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup, and you’ll think you’re sitting right there in the restaurant!
- Serve alongside pasta night. It makes an easy starter while dinner is cooking.
- Use as a drizzle. Try it over grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
Storage, Make-ahead
Storage: Store the herb mixture in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
Prepared dip: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
Make Ahead: Great for making ahead. Keeping the herb mix ready makes it easy to pull together a quick appetizer anytime. You could also blend all the herbs in oil if serving a crowd. You would just need to stir or shake to keep the herbs evenly mixed in the oil.
Commonly Asked Questions
Yes, just use three times the amount of fresh herbs in place of dried.
A good starting point is 1 teaspoon of herb mix to 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Carrabba’s uses closer to 3 tablespoons if you prefer a milder flavor.
Yes. The herb mix stores well, and you can mix up the oil just before serving for the best flavor.
More Italian Dinner Ideas
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Italian Bread Dipping Oil (Carrabba’s Copycat Recipe)
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Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried crushed rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon fine kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 12 tablespoons olive oil
- crusty italian bread sliced for dipping
Instructions
- In a small bowl, stir together all of the dried herbs and seasonings until well combined.1 teaspoon dried parsley, ½ teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried crushed rosemary, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon granulated garlic, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon fine kosher salt, ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Add about 1 teaspoon of the herb mixture to a shallow dish.
- Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top and stir to combine. Adjust to your taste.
- Store additional herbs in an airtight container in a dry pantry until ready to use.
- Serve with sliced crusty bread.
Notes
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