Are you ready to elevate your everyday meals with a burst of vibrant flavor? This spicy olive oil recipe is incredibly easy to make, and it’s the secret weapon you need to transform simple dishes into culinary masterpieces. Forget bland salads and boring pasta – this homemade infused oil will add a delicious kick to everything from roasted vegetables to grilled meats. It’s a perfect example of homemade cooking that's both quick and incredibly rewarding. This recipe offers a quick dinner idea solution for busy weeknights, while still maintaining a healthy and delicious outcome.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (high-quality is key!)
- 2-4 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference – remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the extra virgin olive oil, chopped chili peppers, sliced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Gentle Heating: Heat the mixture over low heat. It's crucial to keep the heat low to prevent burning the oil or scorching the garlic. We want to infuse the oil with flavor, not cook it.
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Simmer and Infuse: Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The oil should be infused with the vibrant colors and aromas of the herbs and chilies. You'll notice the oil taking on a beautiful reddish hue.
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Cool and Strain: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the oil cool completely. Once cool, strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean, airtight bottle. This removes the solids, leaving you with a smooth, flavorful oil.
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Store and Enjoy: Store your spicy olive oil in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavor will deepen over time. Use it to dress salads, drizzle over pasta, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even add a dash to your soups and stews for a delicious kick.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Oil Quality Matters: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Adjust the Spice: Control the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of chili peppers and red pepper flakes. Start with less and add more to taste.
- Don't Overheat: Low and slow is the key here. High heat will burn the oil and the garlic, ruining the flavor.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of smoked paprika.
Variations:
- Citrus Infusion: Add the zest of one lemon or orange for a bright, zesty twist.
- Garlic Lover's Version: Increase the amount of garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Herby Delight: Experiment with different combinations of fresh or dried herbs to create your unique signature blend.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 120
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
This spicy olive oil is a delicious and versatile addition to your pantry. It’s a fantastic way to add flavor and depth to a wide variety of dishes, making it a staple for both easy recipes and more elaborate culinary creations. Enjoy!