Craving that incredible olive oil dipping bread from Carrabba's Italian Grill? You don't need a reservation or a long drive – this recipe lets you recreate that irresistible flavor explosion right in your own kitchen! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer, a delicious side dish, or even a simple yet elegant starter for a dinner party. It’s bursting with fresh flavors, and the best part? It's surprisingly simple to make. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade culinary delight!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Fresh Flavors
This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to create a complex and satisfying flavor profile. You likely already have most of them in your pantry!
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (the best quality you can find!)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Deliciousness
This olive oil dip recipe is incredibly easy, even for beginner cooks. Let's get started!
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Combine the magic: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.
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Basil boost: Gently stir in the chopped fresh basil. Avoid overmixing to preserve the vibrant green color and the freshness of the basil.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for a truly delicious dip. The longer it chills, the better it tastes!
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Bread and bliss: Serve your homemade Carrabba's-style olive oil dip with crusty bread, focaccia, or even grilled vegetables. Enjoy the incredible flavor combination!
Cooking Tips for Olive Oil Dip Perfection
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Oil quality matters: Using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil is key to achieving the best flavor. The taste difference is significant!
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Fresh is best: Fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous note that dried basil simply can’t replicate. If possible, use fresh herbs.
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Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the dip and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more salt, pepper, garlic, or lemon juice, depending on your taste.
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Make it ahead: This dip is even better the next day! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations: Expand Your Culinary Horizons
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Herby twist: Experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Citrus zest: Add a little lemon or orange zest for extra brightness.
- Roasted garlic: Use roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: High (mostly healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil)
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This easy, delicious olive oil dip is the perfect addition to any meal. It’s a fantastic appetizer, a delightful side dish, or a simple yet impressive addition to any gathering. Enjoy the taste of Italy, homemade and made with love!