Are you ready to elevate your everyday cooking from ordinary to extraordinary? This simple yet incredibly flavorful basil olive oil recipe is your secret weapon for transforming even the simplest dishes into culinary masterpieces. Forget store-bought infused oils – making your own is easier than you think, and the fresh, vibrant taste is unbeatable. This recipe is perfect for beginners, requiring minimal effort and delivering maximum flavor impact. It’s a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire, a quick dinner idea, and a wonderful homemade cooking project. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (choose a high-quality oil for the best flavor)
- 1 large cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced (optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- Pinch of black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Wash and thoroughly dry your basil leaves. Patting them dry is crucial to prevent unwanted water from diluting the oil. If using garlic, peel and thinly slice the cloves.
Step 2: Combine and Infuse
In a clean, dry jar (a mason jar works perfectly), combine the basil leaves, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. Gently pour the olive oil over the ingredients, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Step 3: Infuse the Flavor
Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks. The longer it infuses, the more intense the flavor will become. Give the jar a gentle shake every day or two to help the ingredients distribute evenly.
Step 4: Strain and Store
After 2 weeks (or longer), strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth lined strainer into a clean, dry bottle. Discard the solids. Store your basil-infused olive oil in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Tips for Success:
- Quality Matters: Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil is key to a delicious infused oil.
- Fresh Basil is Best: Fresh basil provides the most vibrant flavor.
- Experiment with Herbs: Don't be afraid to experiment! Try infusing your olive oil with other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the oil before storing it and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Variations:
- Citrus Twist: Add a slice of lemon or orange peel to the jar for a bright, citrusy note.
- Spicy Kick: Include a few slices of chili pepper for a spicy infused oil.
- Garlic Lovers: Add more garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
Delicious Uses:
This versatile basil olive oil is perfect for drizzling over pasta, salads, pizzas, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even bread. It adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor to almost any dish. It’s a simple way to add deliciousness to easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, while creating a healthy meal that is both flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy your homemade cooking creation!