Chef Mitchell preparing Herb Infused Olive Oil
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the joy of herb infused olive oil during my travels in the Mediterranean. The vibrant flavors inspired me to recreate the experience at home. Over the years, I've perfected the process to highlight the freshness of the herbs. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I love sharing its versatility with friends and family."

With over a decade of experience in Mediterranean cuisine, I specialize in creating appetizers that tantalize the taste buds. My passion for fresh ingredients drives me to explore new flavor combinations and techniques. I take pride in sharing my knowledge through recipes that are both delicious and approachable.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Herb Infused Olive Oil served on a plate

Why This Herb Infused Olive Oil Recipe Works

This Herb Infused Olive Oil recipe works beautifully because it combines fresh herbs with high-quality olive oil, giving a rich and aromatic flavor profile. The slow heating process allows the herbs to release their essential oils while preserving their vibrant taste. The use of garlic and spices adds depth, making it a versatile condiment.

By gently heating the oil, you avoid burning the herbs, which can lead to bitterness. This careful technique results in a harmonious blend that enhances salads, breads, and marinades. Plus, it’s simple enough for home cooks to master, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, always use high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Fresh herbs yield a much more potent aroma than dried ones, so opt for fresh whenever possible. Remember to store the infused oil in a cool, dark place to preserve its flavor and quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can definitely make Herb Infused Olive Oil ahead of time! It's best to prepare it a few days in advance to allow the flavors to deepen. Just store it in a cool, dark place, and be sure to use it within two weeks for optimal freshness.

If you don't have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs instead. However, remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so you'll need to use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh herbs. Additionally, ensure that your dried herbs are fresh to maximize flavor.

You’ll know your Herb Infused Olive Oil is done when it becomes aromatic and fragrant. Since you are heating it gently, you won’t actually see any visual changes, but the aroma will be a clear indicator that the flavors are being extracted from the herbs.

Freezing Herb Infused Olive Oil is possible, but it may alter the texture and flavor slightly. If you choose to freeze it, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze in individual portions. This way, you can easily thaw just the amount you need for future recipes.

Herb Infused Olive Oil pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or used as a marinade for meats. It also enhances salads, pasta, and pizzas, adding a burst of flavor to various dishes.

Herb Infused Olive Oil can last in the fridge for up to two weeks. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve its flavor and prevent any moisture from entering. If you notice any off smells or cloudiness, it's best to discard it.

Absolutely! In fact, making it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure to store it in a cool, dark place and use it within two weeks for the best taste.

The best way to reheat Herb Infused Olive Oil is to warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat. Avoid boiling, as high temperatures can degrade the flavors. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating before serving.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The infused oil lacks moisture and feels dry on the palate.

Solution: To remedy dryness, consider adding a bit more olive oil to your mixture. You could also enhance the infusion with a splash of balsamic vinegar to add some acidity and moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The infused oil fails to achieve a satisfying crispy texture when used for frying or drizzling.

Solution: Ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding any ingredients. Using a thermometer can help maintain the right temperature for achieving that desirable crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The infused oil has a burnt taste or the herbs have turned dark.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, always keep the heat low and monitor the infusion closely. If you notice the herbs starting to darken, remove the pot from the heat immediately to stop the cooking process.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The flavors haven't fully infused, and the oil tastes bland.

Recovery: If this happens, simply return the oil to the heat and allow it to infuse for a little longer. Check frequently to ensure it doesn't overcook.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The oil or herbs have burnt on the sides of the pan.

Prevention: Keep the heat low and stir the mixture occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the sides of the pan, which can cause burning. This will help ensure even heating.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the oil is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: To counteract excessive saltiness, dilute the oil with additional olive oil, which will balance out the salt flavor.

Bland: If the flavor is bland, consider infusing it longer or adding more herbs and spices to enhance the taste.

Fresh ingredients for Herb Infused Olive Oil

Essential Ingredients for Herb Infused Olive Oil

The key ingredients for Herb Infused Olive Oil are fresh herbs and high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Using fresh herbs ensures that the oil is packed with flavor and aroma. Olive oil serves as the base, and its quality significantly impacts the final taste.

When selecting herbs, opt for vibrant, green leaves that are fragrant and free from blemishes. For the olive oil, a good extra virgin olive oil will provide a rich and fruity flavor, elevating the overall quality of your infused oil.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Always choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Look for oils that are cold-pressed and come from reputable sources. This will ensure that your infused oil has a rich and fruity base.
  • Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs whenever possible, as they provide a vibrant flavor and aroma. Check for crispness and vibrant color when selecting herbs at the market. Avoid any wilted or brown leaves.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your herb infused olive oil. Make sure to mince it finely to release its essential oils fully. Avoid using pre-minced garlic, as it often lacks freshness.
Cooking process for Herb Infused Olive Oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Creating Herb Infused Olive Oil is a straightforward process that involves combining fresh herbs and oil, then gently heating the mixture. This method extracts the flavors and aromas without overpowering the oil.

To achieve the best results, monitor the heating process closely. You want the oil to be fragrant without boiling, which can lead to bitterness. The result is a beautifully flavored oil that enhances any dish it accompanies.

Key Technique for Perfect Herb Infused Olive Oil

The most important technique for perfecting Herb Infused Olive Oil is controlling the heat during the infusion process. Keeping the temperature low ensures that the herbs release their flavors without burning, resulting in a smooth and aromatic oil.

Herb Infused Olive Oil

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
    For a tangy flavor
  • 1 teaspoon honey
    For sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
    For a kick
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For additional flavor
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs
    Chopped for garnish

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
    High-quality for best flavor
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary
    Chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
    Chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil
    Chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
    For brightness
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    To taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    To taste

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients

    In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, rosemary, thyme, basil, red pepper flakes, garlic, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, bay leaf, oregano, and parsley.

  2. Heat the Mixture

    Heat the mixture over low heat, allowing it to warm gently for about 30-45 minutes. Do not let it boil.

  3. Cool Down

    Once the oil has warmed and become aromatic, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes.

  4. Strain the Oil

    Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the oil into a clean glass bottle or jar to remove the herbs and garlic.

  5. Add Balsamic Vinegar

    Add the balsamic vinegar to the strained oil and stir gently to combine.

  6. Store

    Seal the bottle or jar and store the herb infused oil in a cool, dark place for up to two weeks.

  7. Serve

    Use the herb infused olive oil for dipping bread, drizzling over salads, or as a flavorful marinade.

  8. Enjoy

    Enjoy the rich flavors and aromas in all your Mediterranean dishes!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store your Herb Infused Olive Oil, keep it in a dark, cool place away from sunlight. Make sure the container is airtight to prevent oxidation. For best results, consume within two weeks to fully enjoy its fresh flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Herb Infused Olive Oil is perfect for drizzling over grilled vegetables, pasta, or fresh salads. It can also be used as a dipping oil for crusty bread or as a marinade for meats. Its versatility will enhance any Mediterranean dish.

Recipe Variations

You can customize your Herb Infused Olive Oil by experimenting with different herbs like sage, mint, or dill. For a spicy kick, consider adding chili flakes or peppercorns. Create variations based on seasonal herbs or your personal taste preferences.