There’s something magical about the way infused oils can elevate a dish. I remember a summer evening spent in my grandmother’s garden, surrounded by vibrant herbs and the warm glow of the setting sun. As we gathered fresh basil, thyme, and garlic, she shared stories of her culinary adventures, teaching me the importance of quality ingredients. That evening inspired me to create a versatile herb-infused garlic oil that can be drizzled over roasted vegetables, used in dressings, or simply enjoyed as a dip for crusty bread. This recipe captures the essence of those warm summer nights and brings a touch of that nostalgia to your kitchen.
Ingredients
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt to taste
Instructions
Start by pouring the olive oil into a small saucepan. Place it over low heat. The goal is to warm the oil gently, not to fry or boil it.
Once the oil is warm, add the smashed garlic cloves. Allow them to infuse the oil for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the garlic; you want it to turn golden but not brown, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.
Next, add the fresh basil and thyme leaves to the saucepan. If you like a bit of heat, this is the time to sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Let the herbs simmer gently in the oil for another 10 minutes, allowing their flavors to meld beautifully with the garlic.
Once the oil is fragrant and infused to your liking, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the oil to cool completely.
After cooling, strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass jar. Discard the solids. Season the oil with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
Your herb-infused garlic oil is now ready to use! Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before drizzling over your favorite dishes.
This golden elixir is perfect for drizzling over grilled vegetables, tossing with pasta, or as a flavorful dip alongside warm, crusty bread. Share it with friends and family, and let them savor the memories of summer in every drop.