Rosemary Infused Olive Oil

Infused oils can be a game-changer in your kitchen, adding depth and flavor to your dishes. One of our favorite herb-infused oils is the Rosemary Infused Olive Oil. It’s simple to make and can elevate your cooking to a whole new level. In this recipe blog post, we’ll show you how to create this fragrant and versatile extra virgin olive oil rosemary infusion. Let’s get started!

What is Rosemary Infused Olive Oil

Rosemary infused olive oil is a flavorful culinary oil made by infusing high-quality extra virgin olive oil with fresh or dried rosemary leaves. This infusion process imparts the aromatic and herbaceous essence of rosemary to the olive oil, creating a versatile ingredient that can be used to enhance the flavor of a wide variety of dishes.

Is Homemade Rosemary Oil Good for Cooking

Yes, rosemary infused olive oil can be used in various ways, such as drizzling over roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or bread, or as a flavorful base for salad dressings and marinades. It adds a delightful herbal dimension to dishes and can elevate the overall taste of your recipes.

I used this rosemary infused olive oil for this Creamy Pinto Bean Dip. It’s the perfect example of how a simple infused oil can take the flavor profile to a whole new level!

How Long Does Infused Olive Oil Last

Infused olive oil can last anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks for fresh herb infusions when refrigerated, to several months to a year or longer for dried herb or spice infusions when stored in a cool, dark place and kept away from moisture and light. Always inspect for signs of spoilage before using.

Watch: How to Make Rosemary Infused Olive Oil

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Ingredients for Making the Infused Olive Oil

• 2-3 fresh rosemary sprigs
• 3/4 cup of high-quality extra virgin olive oil

How to Make Rosemary Infused Oil

Preparing the Rosemary

• Begin by washing the fresh rosemary leaves thoroughly under cold water. This will help remove any dirt or impurities.
• Gently pat the rosemary sprigs dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Make sure they are completely dry before proceeding.
• Once the rosemary sprigs are dry, remove the rosemary leaves from the stems. You can do this by holding the top of the stem with one hand and running your other hand down the stem, stripping off the leaves.

Making the Infused Olive Oil

• In a saucepan, pour 3/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, making sure to use a good-quality olive oil for the best results.
• Place the saucepan over medium heat and allow the olive oil to heat up for a few minutes. You’ll want it warm but not boiling.
• Add the fresh rosemary leaves to the warm olive oil. Let them simmer gently in the oil for about 10 minutes. The rosemary will become crispy and release its aromatic flavors into the oil.
• Keep an eye on the oil to ensure it doesn’t overheat. You want it to infuse gently without burning the rosemary leaves.

Infusing the Rosemary Olive Oil

• As the rosemary leaves crisp up and infuse the olive oil with their wonderful flavor, you’ll notice the oil taking on a subtle green hue. This is a sign that your rosemary-infused olive oil is coming together beautifully.
• After 10 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the infused oil cool down to room temperature. This will allow the flavors to meld even further.

Straining and Storing

• Once the oil has cooled, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or a piece of cheesecloth into a clean glass container or bottle.
• Your rosemary-infused olive oil is now ready to use in your favorite recipes! It can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a month, but it’s so delicious that it may not last that long.

How Can I Use Infused Olive Oil

Here are 10 ideas on how you can use rosemary-infused olive oil in your culinary creations:

1. Drizzle over roasted vegetables: Add a burst of flavor to roasted potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts by drizzling rosemary-infused olive oil before baking. Try these Crispy Oven Roasted Vegetables.
2. Marinate meats: Use it as a marinade for chicken, lamb, or pork to infuse them with the aromatic essence of rosemary before grilling or roasting.
3. Dress up salads: Create a delightful vinaigrette by combining rosemary-infused olive oil with balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey for your salads.
4. Flavorful pasta: Toss cooked pasta with rosemary-infused olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, and freshly ground black pepper for a simple yet delicious dish.
5. Dip for bread: Serve it as a dipping oil for crusty bread or a baguette alongside your favorite herbs and spices for an appetizing starter.
6. Herb-infused potatoes: Roast or fry potatoes in rosemary-infused olive oil to give them a delectable herby flavor.
7. Grilled seafood: Brush it onto fish or seafood before grilling or broiling to add a delightful Mediterranean touch to your dishes.
8. Herbaceous pizza: Use it as a drizzle or brushing oil on homemade or store-bought pizza crust for a unique and aromatic pizza flavor.
9. Gourmet popcorn: Elevate your popcorn game by drizzling rosemary-infused olive oil over freshly popped corn and adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of sea salt.

These versatile and creative uses for rosemary-infused olive oil can elevate the flavor of a wide range of dishes, making it a staple ingredient in your kitchen. Enjoy experimenting with different recipes and discovering new ways to savor its delicious taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried rosemary for this recipe

Yes, you can use dried rosemary for this recipe, but keep in mind that dried rosemary may have a more concentrated flavor compared to fresh rosemary. Adjust the quantity to your taste, as dried herbs are generally more potent.

Final Thoughts

Creating your own rosemary-infused olive oil is a simple yet rewarding process. This herb-infused oil will add a burst of fresh rosemary flavor to your cooking, making your dishes stand out with a touch of love and gourmet flair. Use it to drizzle over roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or as a dip for fresh bread. It’s a vegetarian-friendly way to enhance the flavors of your dishes and elevate your culinary creations to new heights. Enjoy experimenting with this rosemary-infused olive oil, and happy cooking!