Growing up in my grandmother’s kitchen, the scent of fresh basil always brings back fond memories. There’s just something so comforting and nostalgic about that earthy, slightly peppery aroma. One of my favorite childhood recipes was her homemade basil oil – a simple yet incredibly flavorful condiment that we’d drizzle over everything from roasted vegetables to crusty bread.
I can still picture my grandma carefully plucking the fragrant leaves, gently bruising them to release their oils before slowly infusing them in high-quality olive oil. The whole process was so mesmerizing to watch, and the end result was pure magic. That vibrant green basil oil was the star of so many of our family meals, adding a burst of fresh flavor that elevated even the most basic dishes.
As I got older and started experimenting in the kitchen myself, I knew I had to master this basil oil recipe. It’s become a staple in my own cooking, and I love sharing it with friends and family. There’s just something so satisfying about creating something so simple yet so incredibly delicious. This basil oil recipe has truly become a go-to for me, and I’m excited to share it with all of you today.
Why This Basil Oil Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect basil oil recipe
The secret to making the best basil oil recipe is all in the technique. It may seem like a straightforward process, but there are a few key steps that really make all the difference. First and foremost, you want to use the freshest, most fragrant basil you can find. This isn’t the time to settle for wilted or discolored leaves – you want that bright, vibrant green color and intense aroma.
Secondly, the way you prepare the basil is crucial. Gently bruising or “massaging” the leaves helps to release their essential oils, which is what gives the final oil its incredible flavor. And when it comes to the infusion process, low and slow is the way to go. Rushing through this step can result in a bitter, unbalanced oil, so be patient and let the basil slowly infuse the olive oil over the course of 30-60 minutes.
Finally, the quality of your olive oil makes a big difference. You don’t need to splurge on the most expensive bottle, but do opt for a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. The better the base, the more the basil flavor will shine through.
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Basil Oil Recipe
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 1 cup
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elevate your cooking with this easy, 10-minute basil oil recipe! Infused with the fresh, herbal flavor of basil and garlic, this versatile oil can be drizzled over pasta, salads, vegetables, and more for an instant flavor boost.
Ingredients
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 3 garlic cloves, peeled
– 1 cup high-quality olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. – In a mortar and pestle, gently crush the basil leaves and garlic until a coarse paste forms.
2. – Transfer the basil-garlic mixture to a small saucepan and add the olive oil. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, until fragrant.
3. – Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing on the solids to extract as much oil as possible.
4. – Transfer the strained basil oil to a clean jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Notes
– Use the basil oil as a finishing drizzle over pasta, salads, roasted vegetables, and more.
– Experiment with different herbs or spices to create your own custom basil oil blends.
– The leftover basil-garlic solids can be used as a flavorful spread or stirred into dips and dressings.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 5
- Category: Main Courses
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Follow these simple tips, and you’ll end up with a basil oil that’s out of this world. It’s the perfect condiment to have on hand, adding an instant burst of freshness and flavor to everything from salads and pasta to grilled meats and roasted veggies.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this basil oil recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
Fresh basil leaves – Look for bright green, fragrant leaves that are free from any wilting or discoloration.
Extra virgin olive oil – Opt for a high-quality, full-bodied olive oil to really let the basil flavor shine.
Kosher salt – A pinch of salt helps to balance the flavors and brings out the natural sweetness of the basil.
That’s it! With these three ingredients, you can create a basil oil that’s bursting with fresh, herbal flavor.
Step-by-Step basil oil recipe Instructions
Preparing Your basil oil recipe
This basil oil recipe is incredibly easy to make, with a total prep and cooking time of just 45 minutes. All you’ll need is a small saucepan, a heatproof bowl, and a fine-mesh strainer.
1- Start by carefully plucking the fresh basil leaves from their stems, leaving any small tender stems attached. Gently bruise the leaves by lightly rubbing them between your palms to help release their aromatic oils.
2- In a small saucepan, combine the bruised basil leaves and the olive oil. Heat the mixture over low heat, bringing it just to a gentle simmer. Once it begins to bubble lightly, reduce the heat to the absolute lowest setting and let the basil infuse the oil for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3- After 30-60 minutes, the oil should have taken on a vibrant green hue and the basil leaves will have lost their bright color. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
4- Set a fine-mesh strainer over a heatproof bowl. Carefully pour the basil-infused oil through the strainer, pressing on the solids to extract as much oil as possible. Discard the spent basil leaves.
5- Transfer the strained basil oil to a clean, airtight container. Stir in a pinch of kosher salt, then seal and refrigerate until ready to use.
6- Your homemade basil oil is now ready to drizzle, dip, and enjoy! Store it in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Pro Tips for Success
A few pro tips to ensure your basil oil recipe turns out perfectly every time:
– Use the freshest, most fragrant basil you can find. This is the star of the show, so quality matters.
– Be gentle when bruising the leaves – you don’t want to tear or shred them, just lightly massage them to release the oils.
– Keep a close eye on the oil as it infuses, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer. Overheating can lead to bitterness.
– Strain the oil thoroughly to remove any sediment or particulates, which can cause the oil to spoil more quickly.
– Store the finished basil oil in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 1 week.
Serving and Storing Your basil oil recipe
Perfect Pairings for basil oil recipe
This versatile basil oil recipe is the perfect way to add a burst of fresh, herbal flavor to all sorts of dishes. Drizzle it over roasted vegetables, toss it with pasta, or use it as a dipping oil for crusty bread. It also makes a lovely finishing touch for grilled meats, fish, and seafood.
For a simple yet elegant appetizer, try dipping mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, or fresh basil leaves in the basil oil. It’s also delicious as a salad dressing or a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
And don’t forget the drinks! Basil oil makes a lovely addition to cocktails, mocktails, and even lemonade or iced tea. The possibilities are endless!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this basil oil recipe is that it keeps incredibly well. Simply store the finished oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The cool temperature helps preserve the vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
You can also make this basil oil recipe in advance and have it on hand for quick and easy meal preparation. It’s the perfect make-ahead condiment to have in your fridge. Just drizzle it over roasted veggies, toss it with pasta, or use it as a dip for crusty bread whenever the craving strikes.
For even longer-term storage, you can freeze the basil oil in ice cube trays. Once frozen, pop the cubes out and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. The frozen basil oil cubes will keep for up to 3 months, making it easy to add a burst of fresh flavor to your dishes year-round.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for basil oil recipe
Creative basil oil recipe Variations
While the classic basil oil recipe is a true flavor powerhouse, there are plenty of ways to mix things up and create fun variations. Try infusing the oil with other fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a more complex, layered flavor profile.
You can also experiment with different types of oils, such as avocado, walnut, or even chili-infused olive oil for a spicy kick. And don’t be afraid to get creative with add-ins like roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or toasted nuts and seeds.
For a seasonal twist, try swapping out the basil for other fresh greens like arugula, spinach, or kale during the off-season. The possibilities are endless!
Making basil oil recipe Diet-Friendly
Fortunately, this basil oil recipe is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and low-carb, making it a great option for a variety of dietary needs and restrictions.
For those following a gluten-free diet, this basil oil is the perfect way to add flavor to your meals without any wheat-based ingredients. It’s also completely plant-based, so it’s a great option for vegan and vegetarian eaters.
And since the only two ingredients are basil and olive oil, this recipe is naturally low in carbs and keto-friendly. Just be mindful of how you use the basil oil – it’s best enjoyed in moderation as a flavoring rather than as a main component of a dish.
No matter your dietary needs, this versatile basil oil recipe can be easily adapted to fit your lifestyle. It’s a great way to add a burst of fresh, herbal flavor to all sorts of healthy, delicious meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: While you can technically use dried basil, I wouldn’t recommend it for this recipe. The flavor and aroma just won’t be the same as using fresh, vibrant basil leaves. Dried basil tends to be more concentrated and can impart a slightly bitter or grassy flavor. For the best results, stick with fresh basil.
Q: How long does the basil oil need to infuse?
A: I recommend infusing the basil in the olive oil for 30-60 minutes. This slow, gentle infusion process allows the basil’s essential oils to fully transfer into the oil, resulting in maximum flavor. Any longer than an hour and you run the risk of the oil becoming bitter or unpleasantly herbal.
Q: Can I reuse the spent basil leaves?
A: Unfortunately, no. Once the basil leaves have been steeped in the oil, they’ve given up most of their flavor and aroma. The remaining leaves will be dull, discolored, and won’t impart much additional flavor if you try to reuse them. It’s best to discard the spent leaves and start fresh the next time you make the basil oil.
Q: How much basil oil does this recipe make?
A: This recipe will yield approximately 1 cup of finished basil oil. The exact amount can vary slightly depending on how much oil is absorbed by the basil leaves during the infusion process. But in general, you can expect around 1 cup of vibrant green, flavorful basil oil.
Q: My basil oil turned brown – what happened?
A: If your basil oil has taken on a darker, more brownish hue, it’s likely due to overheating during the infusion process. Too much heat can cause the basil to oxidize and turn the oil an unappetizing brown color. Be sure to keep the heat very low and maintain a gentle simmer throughout the infusion to prevent this. If your oil does turn brown, it’s best to discard it and start over.
Conclusion
There you have it – my grandma’s classic basil oil recipe, perfected and ready to share with all of you. This vibrant, flavor-packed condiment is truly a versatile kitchen staple that I know you’re going to love.
Whether you drizzle it over roasted veggies, toss it with pasta, or use it as a dipping oil for crusty bread, this basil oil is sure to elevate any dish. And with its easy prep and long shelf life, it’s the perfect make-ahead ingredient to have on hand.
So what are you waiting for? Gather up those fresh basil leaves and get to infusing! I can’t wait to hear how you all enjoy this basil oil recipe. Be sure to leave a comment and let me know your thoughts. Bon appétit!