Imagine transforming an ordinary bread basket into a restaurant-quality appetizer that will have your guests begging for more! This Carrabba's-inspired bread dipping oil is not just a condiment—it's a culinary experience that brings the warmth of an Italian trattoria right to your dining table. With just a few simple ingredients and five minutes of your time, you'll create a mouthwatering dip that elevates any meal from mundane to magnificent.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Select a small mixing bowl that will allow easy dipping of bread. Ensure the bowl is clean and dry.
- Pour the 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil into the bowl, creating a smooth, even base for the dipping oil.
- Add the tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the olive oil, which will create a slight marbling effect and add depth of flavor.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic into the oil mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout.
- Add the dried oregano, gently stirring to incorporate the herb and release its aromatic oils.
- Sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes into the mixture for a subtle heat and additional flavor complexity.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference.
- Gently stir all ingredients to combine, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Let the dipping oil sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve immediately with warm, crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy!
Tips
- Quality Matters: Use the best extra virgin olive oil you can find, as it's the foundation of this recipe.
- Fresh is Best: If possible, use fresh minced garlic instead of pre-minced for a more vibrant flavor.
- Let It Steep: Allow the oil to sit for 3-5 minutes before serving to maximize flavor infusion.
- Bread Pairing: Choose a crusty, rustic bread like ciabatta or sourdough for the best dipping experience.
- Temperature Tip: Serve the dipping oil at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Customize: Feel free to adjust red pepper flakes for more or less heat according to your preference.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 240kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
