Description
This vibrant basil oil is a fresh and aromatic Italian condiment, easily whipped up in just 15 minutes. Bursting with peppery basil, mellow olive oil, and a touch of garlic, it’s perfect drizzled over salads, grilled veggies, pasta, or as a dip for crusty bread. Simple, fast, and intensely flavorful, homemade basil oil instantly brightens any dish.
Ingredients
Herbs & Produce
- 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, stemmed and washed
- 2 cloves garlic
Oils & Liquids
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon water
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Blend the Base Ingredients: Place the basil leaves, water, garlic cloves, kosher salt, and crushed red pepper flakes into a mini food processor. Pulse a few times to chop and mix the ingredients, breaking down the basil and garlic for an even blend.
- Add the Olive Oil: Pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Blend the mixture until the sauce is smooth and emulsified, scraping down the sides as needed. The oil will combine with the herbs, creating a vibrant green, fragrant oil.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the basil oil and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or pepper flakes if desired. Blend again briefly to mix.
- Store or Use: Use the basil oil immediately as a dip or drizzle, or transfer to a small jar or airtight container. For best flavor, refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld—the intensity increases by the next day. Basil oil can be stored in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
Notes
- Use only fresh basil for best flavor and bright color.
- Sterilize your container if planning to store the oil for maximum freshness.
- For a smoother oil, strain through a fine mesh sieve after blending.
- Pair basil oil with bread, roasted veggies, grilled meats, or drizzle over soups and pasta.
- Basil oil loses its bright green color over time; for the most appealing presentation, serve shortly after making.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauces-condiments
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Tbsp
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
