Imagine walking into your favorite Italian restaurant and being greeted by the enticing aroma of warm herby dipping oil accompanying fresh bread. I’ve always loved Carrabba’s Dipping Oil for its perfect blend of flavors that make every bite memorable.
Creating a copycat version at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients, you can replicate that restaurant-quality dipping oil and elevate your appetizers. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy meal, this recipe adds a touch of Italian charm to any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Tools and Equipment
Creating a perfect batch of Carrabba’s Dipping Oil at home is a breeze when you have the right tools in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Essential for accurately measuring olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings.
Mixing Bowl
- A medium-sized bowl works best for combining all the ingredients evenly.
Whisk
- Helps to thoroughly blend the oil and vinegar with the herbs and spices for a smooth consistency.
Knife and Cutting Board
- If you prefer using fresh herbs or garlic, having a sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board is important.
Storage Container
- A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid keeps your dipping oil fresh and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Small Funnel (Optional)
- Makes transferring the dipping oil into the storage container mess-free and precise.
- Useful for measuring out larger quantities of olive oil without spills.
Here’s a quick overview of the tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Measuring Cups | Measure liquids and dry ingredients accurately |
| Measuring Spoons | Precisely add spices and seasonings |
| Mixing Bowl | Combine all ingredients thoroughly |
| Whisk | Achieve a smooth and well-blended mixture |
| Knife and Cutting Board | Prepare fresh herbs or garlic if desired |
| Storage Container | Store the finished dipping oil effectively |
| Small Funnel | Transfer oil without spills (optional) |
| Measuring Jug | Measure larger quantities of olive oil |
Having these tools on hand ensures that your dipping oil turns out perfectly every time, enhancing your appetizers and meals with that authentic Carrabba’s flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your own Carrabba’s Dipping Oil that will elevate any appetizer spread.
Prepare Ingredients
- Gather all ingredients:
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Measure and prepare each ingredient accurately to ensure the perfect flavor balance.
Combine Ingredients
- Pour the extra-virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar into a mixing bowl.
- Add the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt.
- Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly until the mixture is well blended and the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Infuse Oil
- Transfer the combined mixture into a clean storage container using a small funnel for ease.
- Seal the container tightly to prevent any air from entering.
- Let the oil infuse by allowing it to sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour. For deeper flavor, refrigerate overnight.
- Before serving, give the oil a gentle stir to reincorporate any separated ingredients.
- Serve at room temperature alongside your favorite bread, vegetables, or appetizers.
Serving Suggestions
I love how versatile Carrabba’s Dipping Oil is, and here are some of my favorite ways to serve it that will impress your guests and elevate any meal.
Classic Bread Pairing
- Fresh Baguette: Slice a warm, crusty baguette and serve it alongside the dipping oil for a timeless combination.
- Garlic Knots: Bake garlic knots until golden and use them to soak up every bit of the flavorful oil.
- Olive Bread: The robust flavors of olive bread perfectly complement the herb-infused dipping oil.
Vegetable Platter
- Assorted Veggies: Arrange a colorful mix of bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and baby carrots for a healthy and vibrant option.
- Grilled Vegetables: Serve the oil with grilled zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus to add a smoky dimension to the dip.
Appetizer Enhancements
- Cheese Board: Drizzle the dipping oil over a selection of cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for an extra kick.
- Antipasto Platter: Enhance your antipasto with olives, artichoke hearts, and marinated mushrooms dipped in the oil.
Grilling Companion
- Steaks and Chicken: Use the dipping oil as a finishing touch on grilled steaks or chicken breasts to add depth and flavor.
- Grilled Shrimp: Toss grilled shrimp in the dipping oil for a quick and delicious appetizer or main course addition.
Pizza and Flatbreads
- Homemade Pizza: Drizzle the oil over freshly baked pizza for an authentic Italian flavor boost.
- Flatbreads: Use the dipping oil as a side for various flatbreads, enhancing each bite with its rich taste.
Salad Enhancer
- Dressings: Incorporate the dipping oil into your salad dressings for a flavorful and aromatic addition.
- Marinades: Use it as a marinade base for vegetables or proteins before grilling or roasting.
Snacks and More
- Crackers and Chips: Pair the dipping oil with your favorite crackers or tortilla chips for a simple and tasty snack.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Drizzle the oil over stuffed mushrooms before baking to infuse them with herby goodness.
No matter how you choose to serve it, Carrabba’s Dipping Oil Copycat Recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, adding a burst of flavor to any dish you create.
Storage Instructions
Once you’ve perfected your Carrabba’s Dipping Oil copycat recipe, proper storage ensures it remains fresh and flavorful for your future gatherings. Here’s how I keep my dipping oil at its best:
- Choose the Right Container
- I use a glass bottle or jar with a tight-fitting lid. Glass preserves the oil’s flavor without imparting any unwanted tastes.
- Transfer the Oil
- After mixing, I carefully pour the dipping oil into the chosen container using a small funnel. This minimizes spills and keeps the container clean.
- Seal and Label
- I securely seal the container to prevent air from degrading the oil. Adding a label with the date prepared helps track its freshness.
- Refrigerate for Longevity
- Store the dipping oil in the refrigerator. Keeping it cold slows down oxidation, maintaining its vibrant flavors longer.
- Use Within Two Weeks
| Storage Duration | Storage Method |
|---|---|
| Up to 2 weeks | Refrigerator |
- Shake Before Use
- Before serving, I give the container a gentle shake to re-emulsify the ingredients, ensuring each dip is perfectly seasoned.
- Check for Freshness
- Always inspect the oil for any changes in smell, appearance, or the presence of mold. If anything seems off, it’s best to discard the oil.
Conclusion
Making Carrabba’s Dipping Oil at home is such a rewarding experience. I love how simple ingredients come together to create something so flavorful. It’s perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in. I hope you enjoy preparing and tasting this copycat recipe as much as I do. Happy dipping!
