There is nothing quite like the comfort and simplicity of a flavorful dip paired with warm, crusty bread, and that is exactly what makes Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe a beloved classic. This delightful blend of herbs, spices, and rich olive oil creates an aromatic, savory companion that instantly elevates any bread into an irresistible appetizer or snack. Whether you are hosting a casual gathering or simply craving something satisfying and easy, this recipe captures all the warmth and deliciousness you need with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own unique character to the dish. From the fragrant herbs to the silky olive oil, every component works in harmony to create a luscious dip that feels both rustic and refined. Let’s dive into what makes this combination so special:
- Dried parsley: Adds a fresh, slightly grassy note that brightens the dip beautifully.
- Dried basil: Brings subtle sweetness and an unmistakable Italian flair to the mix.
- Dried rosemary: Offers a piney, woodsy aroma that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- Dried oregano: Provides a warm, peppery bite that ties the herbs together seamlessly.
- Garlic powder: Infuses savory depth without the sharpness of raw garlic, balancing the dip nicely.
- Crushed hot red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of heat to awaken your taste buds just right.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps maintain the perfect seasoning.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Gives a subtle kick and earthy undertone.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: The heart of the recipe, providing silky richness and a fruity finish.
- Sliced crusty rustic bread: The ideal dipping vessel, offering a chewy, crunchy texture.
How to Make Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Dried Herbs and Spices
Start by mixing the dried parsley, basil, rosemary, oregano, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper together in a small serving bowl. This blend of herbs and spices builds the foundation of flavor, and stirring them together ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Step 2: Add the Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Next, pour in the extra-virgin olive oil and gently stir until all the ingredients are well combined. The olive oil acts as the luscious base that carries all those wonderful herb flavors, giving the dip its signature smooth texture and rich taste.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread for Dipping
Slice your crusty rustic bread into pieces perfect for dipping. The bread’s firm crust and soft interior make it the ideal partner to soak up every bit of this flavorful dip.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Place the dip bowl on your table surrounded by the sliced bread, and you’re ready to enjoy! This dip is at its best when freshly mixed, allowing the aromatic herbs and olive oil to shine.
How to Serve Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a few additional red pepper flakes on top of the dip before serving. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also elevate the presentation and flavor, adding a glossy finish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Side Dishes
Pair this dip with a vibrant green salad or a bowl of warm soup to create a well-rounded meal. It also works wonderfully as an appetizer alongside grilled vegetables, cured meats, or a cheese platter, making it versatile for many occasions.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the dip in a hollowed-out rustic bread bowl for that wow-factor at your next gathering. Another fun idea is to offer an assortment of breads like ciabatta, baguette, or focaccia, letting everyone choose their perfect dipping companion for the Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover dip, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors again without any hassle.
Freezing
Because this dip is based on olive oil and dried herbs, freezing is not recommended. The texture and flavor can separate and degrade, so it’s best to prepare it fresh each time you want to savor Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t really necessary or ideal for this dip, as it is meant to be served at room temperature to maintain the integrity of the oil and herbs. Simply take it out of the fridge ahead of time so it can come to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in the Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe?
While fresh herbs can be used, the flavor will be quite different and less concentrated. For the authentic taste and ease of blending, dried herbs provide the perfect intensity and balance.
What type of olive oil is best for this dip?
Extra-virgin olive oil is the best choice because of its robust flavor and smooth texture. Using high-quality olive oil really makes the dip shine.
Is this dip spicy?
This recipe includes a small amount of crushed hot red pepper flakes, giving it a mild kick. You can adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or less depending on your spice preference.
Can I make this dip vegan and gluten-free?
Absolutely! The dip itself is vegan and gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free bread if you’re catering to dietary restrictions.
How long does the Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe take to prepare?
It takes just about five minutes from start to finish. This quick preparation time means you can whip it up last minute and still impress your guests.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about sharing a bowl of Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe with friends or family, whether it’s a casual night in or a lively gathering. Its effortless preparation, combined with rich, herbaceous flavors, makes it a go-to recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. I encourage you to give it a try and see how this simple dip transforms everyday bread into an unforgettable treat.
Print
Carrabba’s Bread Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Carrabba’s Bread Dip is a flavorful and aromatic blend of dried herbs and spices combined with rich extra-virgin olive oil. This simple yet delicious dip pairs perfectly with crusty rustic bread, making it an ideal appetizer or snack that comes together in just minutes.
Ingredients
Herb and Spice Blend
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ¼ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp dried rosemary
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- â…› tsp crushed hot red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Other Ingredients
- â…“ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Sliced crusty rustic bread for dipping (about 1 loaf)
Instructions
- Mix Herbs and Spices: In a small serving bowl, combine the dried parsley, dried basil, dried rosemary, dried oregano, garlic powder, crushed hot red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute all the herbs and spices.
- Add Olive Oil: Pour the extra-virgin olive oil into the bowl with the herb and spice mixture. Stir gently until all the dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the oil, resulting in a flavorful dip.
- Serve the Dip: Place the dip alongside sliced crusty rustic bread. Use the bread to scoop and enjoy the herb-infused olive oil dip immediately.
Notes
- For best flavor, use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil.
- You can adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- Serve this dip fresh; it can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, but stir well before serving again.
- This dip pairs well with sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta bread varieties.

