Soups & Stews > Soup & Stew Garnishes > Other Garnishes > A Drizzle of Olive Oil

Herb-Infused Olive Oil Drizzle

Elevate your soups and stews with a fragrant herb-infused olive oil drizzle. This simple garnish adds a layer of flavor and visual appeal, enhancing the overall dining experience. Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil is key to getting the best results. This recipe focuses on basil and garlic, but feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes (infusion time)
Servings
Yields about 1/2 cup, enough for 4-6 servings
Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves
  • 1 clove Garlic
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes

Prepare the Ingredients

Finely mince the garlic clove. Roughly chop the fresh basil leaves. Have the red pepper flakes ready if you're using them.

Infuse the Olive Oil

In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over very low heat, just until you start to smell the garlic and basil. Do not let the garlic brown or burn. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The goal is to gently infuse the oil with the flavors.

Cool and Strain (Optional)

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the oil cool slightly. If you prefer a clear oil, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the garlic and basil solids. However, leaving them in adds more flavor and texture.

Storage

Store the herb-infused olive oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The oil may solidify in the refrigerator; simply let it come to room temperature or warm it gently before using. If you haven't strained the oil, it's best to use it within 2-3 days to ensure the garlic remains fresh and doesn't become bitter.

Serving Suggestion

Drizzle a small amount of the herb-infused olive oil over your favorite soups and stews just before serving. It's especially delicious on tomato soup, minestrone, lentil stew, or any creamy soup. You can also use it on grilled bread, salads, or pasta dishes.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 884 kcal
Fat: 100g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Sodium: 0mg
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Protein: 0g
Note: This is an estimate and will vary based on the exact olive oil and quantity of ingredients used. This does not account for nutritional changes due to heating.

Other Considerations for Nutrition

While olive oil is a healthy fat, it's still high in calories. Use this garnish sparingly to control calorie intake. The herbs and garlic contribute antioxidants and potential anti-inflammatory benefits.

← Herb & Garlic Infused Sour Cream Homemade Fried Onion Strings →

FAQ

  • Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

    Fresh herbs provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor. If you must use dried herbs, reduce the quantity to about 1 teaspoon of dried basil and a pinch of dried garlic powder. Keep in mind that the flavor will be less intense.
  • How long does this olive oil last?

    If strained and stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last up to a week. If unstrained, it's best to use it within 2-3 days to prevent the garlic from becoming bitter.
  • Can I use a different type of oil?

    Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits. However, you can use other high-quality oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil if preferred.