Name: Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon dried basil; 1 tablespoon dried parsley; 1½ teaspoons garlic powder; 1½ teaspoons onion powder; ½ teaspoon dried rosemary; 1½ teaspoons coarse sea salt (or kosher salt); 3 cloves fresh garlic, freshly crushed or minced; Extra virgin olive oil (approx. 1/3 cup per serving)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

A vibrant Italian-style dipping oil bursting with herbs, garlic, and spice that transforms simple bread into an irresistible appetizer.

Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how quickly this comes together—just five minutes! The bright olive oil combined with fragrant dried herbs, fresh garlic, and a bit of crushed red pepper creates a bold flavor that mimics the restaurant experience. It’s versatile, pantry-friendly, and always a hit when I’m entertaining or enjoying an easy family evening.

ingredients

Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1½ teaspoons garlic powder
1½ teaspoons onion powder
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
1½ teaspoons coarse sea salt (or kosher salt)
3 cloves fresh garlic, freshly crushed or minced
Extra virgin olive oil (approx. 1/3 cup per serving)

directions

In a bowl, combine the crushed red pepper, cracked black pepper, oregano, basil, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, sea salt, and crushed garlic.
Mix the spice blend thoroughly.
When ready to serve, scoop about one tablespoon of the dry blend into a shallow dish. Add roughly 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil and stir gently.
Dip your favorite crusty bread and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Prep time: about 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Makes approximately 4 servings

Variations

Spicier: increase red pepper flakes to 2 tablespoons.
Cheesy: stir in 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.
Herb twist: swap rosemary for fresh thyme or add a pinch of marjoram.
Garlic swap: omit fresh garlic, double garlic powder for milder flavor and longer shelf life.
Vinegar boost: drizzle aged balsamic in the olive oil for tang and depth.

storage/reheating

Dry mix: store in an airtight jar at room temperature for several weeks.
Prep ahead: mix spices ahead and add garlic and oil just before serving.
Leftovers: oil-spice mix with fresh garlic is best used within 2–3 days refrigerated; discard afterward for safety.

FAQs

What’s the best bread to use?

I tend to choose a hearty loaf—focaccia, Italian, sourdough, or crusty white bread all hold up beautifully and soak up the flavors.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—I mix the dry spices in advance, then add garlic and oil when I’m ready to serve, ensuring freshness and aroma.

How long does it keep?

The dry spice mix lasts for weeks. Once olive oil and fresh garlic join in, it’s best to use within 2–3 days if refrigerated, then discard.

Can I omit fresh garlic?

Absolutely. Leaving it out and doubling the garlic powder gives a milder flavor and a longer-lasting mix.

Is the dip suitable for leftovers?

Leftovers with oil and garlic should be refrigerated and used quickly. Dry mix stays shelf-stable for weeks.

Conclusion

This Carrabba’s-style bread dipping oil is my go-to for effortless flavor. It’s fast, adaptable, and so satisfying—whether I’m hosting a crowd or just indulging in a cozy meal at home.