Homemade Basil Oil Recipe

So, I’ve got this tradition every summer, right? I head down to my local Trader Joe’s and spot this small basil plant, that costs me just $5.99. I had to bring it home, and the real fun begins.

What I do next might surprise you. I split that one plant into four – yes, you heard me right, four. Then, I go outside and plant them right next to my tomatoes. Something about that combo just works – the basil makes my tomatoes taste even better if you can believe it.

These tiny plants transform into a veritable basil forest as summer rolls on. And let me tell you, the smell is amazing. The best part is that these plants just give right through the entire summer.

My homemade basil oil is one of my favorite things to whip up with all this basil. It’s super simple, but the flavor? Unbelievable. And I can even freeze it and enjoy that little hint of summer all year round. So, how do I do it, you ask? Well, let me walk you through…

Why Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Matters in Basil Oil

Extra-virgin olive oil is where it’s at when you’re making something as flavor-focused as basil oil. Unlike regular or light olive oil, extra-virgin olive oil is made from pure, cold-pressed olives. This means it’s less processed, helping it retain those natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that we love so much. Plus, it has a richer, fuller flavor that really stands out.

Now, you might be wondering why extra-virgin olive oil is so special, right? Here’s the thing: it’s not just about taste. Extra-virgin olive oil is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, one of the world’s healthiest eating patterns. This diet is linked to heart health, longevity, and even mental well-being, with olive oil playing a starring role.

So, in a nutshell, choosing extra-virgin olive oil for your basil oil doesn’t just elevate the flavor of your dishes, it also brings a piece of the Mediterranean’s health benefits right to your kitchen. Not a bad deal, right?

Basil Oil in Dips, Dressings & More

Basil oil is your go-to when you want to dial up the flavors of your dishes. This herb-infused oil can transform a simple meal into a gourmet experience with its robust basil flavor.

One of my personal favorite ways to use it? As a dipping sauce. Pair it with a piece of crusty ciabatta bread and, trust me, it’s a match made in food heaven. For the adventurous ones among you, why not try baking your own homemade bread? The satisfaction of dunking a piece of bread you made yourself into the basil oil is second to none.

But let’s not limit ourselves to just bread. Basil oil is incredibly versatile. Swap out regular oil in your salad dressings for a bit of basil-infused magic. Ever tried it in a Caprese salad? It’s a game changer. And it’s not just salads – basil oil can elevate your grilled fish or a simple pasta dish to a whole new level.

And guess what? This is just one of the ways you can use the bounty of basil from your garden. I also have recipes for basil butter and basil pesto that can further help you to preserve and enjoy your basil harvest throughout the year. These are not just versatile and delicious, but also a great way to bring a touch of summer to your meals all year round.