Basil-Infused Olive Oil

Basil-infused olive oil is a delightful way to add the fresh, herbal flavor of basil to your dishes, such as Caprese salad. Here’s a simple recipe for making basil-infused olive oil at home:

Basil-Infused Olive Oil Recipe:

Ingredients:

Method:

Place the basil leaves in a mortar and pestle or a food processor. Crush or pulse the leaves a few times to release their oils and aroma.
Transfer the crushed basil leaves to a clean glass jar.
Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat until warm. Be careful not to let it boil or simmer.
Pour the warm olive oil over the crushed basil leaves in the glass jar. Use a spoon or spatula to gently press down the leaves and submerge them in the oil.
Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Cover the jar with a tight-fitting lid and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
After 24 hours, strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean jar or bottle, discarding the basil leaves.
Your basil-infused olive oil is ready to use! It adds a wonderful burst of basil flavor to salads, pasta dishes, grilled vegetables, and more.

Tips for Storage:

Store your basil-infused olive oil in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. Exposure to light and heat can degrade the oil and affect its flavor.
Properly sealed and stored, basil-infused olive oil can last for several months. However, its flavor will gradually diminish over time.
If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as an off odor or cloudy appearance, discard the oil.