Craving the irresistible, subtly garlicky, and perfectly herbaceous dipping oil from Carrabba's Italian Grill? You don't need a reservation to enjoy this deliciousness! This recipe recreates that amazing flavor at home, offering a simple and quick way to elevate your bread and appetizers. It's perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a more elegant gathering – your guests will be raving about this easy, yet impressive, addition to your meal. Let's get started!
Ingredients: A Simple Blend of Flavors
This recipe uses readily available ingredients to achieve that signature Carrabba's taste.
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (the best quality you can find!)
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more, to taste!)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Crusty bread, for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Magic Happen
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks!
- Combine the ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Season to perfection: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
- Rest and meld: Allow the dipping oil to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, creating a richer, more complex taste. The longer it sits, the better it gets! For best results, prepare it a few hours ahead.
- Serve and enjoy: Pour the dipping oil into a small bowl and serve alongside crusty bread, focaccia, or your favorite bread for dipping.
Tips and Tricks for Dipping Oil Success
- Olive oil matters: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. The taste of the oil is the base of this recipe, so don't skimp!
- Garlic lovers rejoice: Feel free to add more or less garlic depending on your preference. Start with two cloves and adjust to your liking.
- Fresh herbs optional: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, use about 1 tablespoon of each, finely chopped. Fresh herbs offer a more vibrant flavor.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the level of heat. Omit it altogether if you prefer a milder oil.
- Make it ahead: This dipping oil can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
Variations: Adding Your Own Twist
- Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a brighter, citrusy note.
- Rosemary: A sprig of fresh rosemary adds a wonderful aromatic depth.
- Other cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
- Roasted garlic: For a smoother, sweeter garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the amount of bread consumed. This is an estimate for the dipping oil itself.
- Calories: Approximately 120-150
- Fat: 13-15g
- Saturated Fat: 2-3g
- Cholesterol: 5-10mg
- Sodium: 100-150mg
This delicious and easy Carrabba's-inspired dipping oil recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It's the perfect accompaniment to any meal, transforming a simple bread basket into a culinary experience. Enjoy!