Fresh Herb Infused Olive Oil

Around CHRISTmas time you can almost always find those pretty gift bottles of cooking oils that have rosemary sprigs and other herbs immersed in them. Although they do make nice gifts, the price can get quite expensive. So instead of buying them, why not make it.

Here's an easy basil, rosemary infused olive oil that not only taste good, but is so inexpensive to make. The measurements of the oil and herbs is dependent upon your taste and the size container you are using to store the oil in.

Basil, Oregano Infused Olive Oil
olive oil (amount needed will depend on the size of the bottle you will be using to store it in)
fresh basil leaves
fresh rosemary sprigs

Pour desired amount of olive oil into a saucepan. Add in rough chopped basil and whole sprigs of rosemary. (You will want the basil in large pieces as to avoid small bits in the oil when cooking.)


Heat oil over low heat for a few minutes. You are looking for a light stream of small bubbles, however you DO NOT want to let it come to a BOIL. This will turn your oil and create a petroleum taste to it.

Immediately remove saucepan from heat and cover with a lid. Allow herbs to steep into the oil. Depending upon the flavor intensity you desire, this could take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or so.

Once oil has infused to your taste, using a funnel pour oil into container of your choice. For aesthetics, it is always nice to use a glass decanter or such so the herbs can be seen in the oil.


Click HERE for printable recipe