Infused olive oil is a flavorful twist on traditional olive oil, adding a range of tastes and aromas to your cooking. Whether you’re a fan of garlic, herbs, chili, or citrus, infused olive oils offer endless possibilities to enhance your dishes with depth and character. In this guide, we’ll explore what infused olive oil is, its many uses in the kitchen, health benefits, and tips for buying or even making your own.
What is Infused Olive Oil?
Infused olive oil is made by blending high-quality olive oil with herbs, spices, fruits, or other flavors to create a rich, aromatic oil. This process captures the essence of the added ingredients, allowing the flavors to infuse into the olive oil. Infused olive oil can be used as a finishing touch or a primary ingredient, bringing vibrant taste to a range of recipes.
Types of Infused Olive Oil Flavors
Infused olive oils come in a variety of flavors, from savory to spicy and fruity. Here are some popular types:
- Garlic-Infused Olive Oil – A favorite for those who love bold flavors, garlic-infused olive oil adds a savory touch to pasta, roasted vegetables, and bread dips.
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil – Basil, rosemary, thyme, and oregano are common herbs used to create aromatic oils that elevate Mediterranean dishes, marinades, and salads.
- Chili-Infused Olive Oil – For a bit of heat, chili-infused olive oil is ideal for drizzling over pizza, pasta, or roasted meats.
- Citrus-Infused Olive Oil – Oils infused with lemon, orange, or lime add a bright, zesty note to salads, seafood, and desserts.
- Truffle-Infused Olive Oil – Known for its earthy, luxurious flavor, truffle-infused oil is a gourmet choice for enhancing pasta, risotto, and scrambled eggs.
How to Use Infused Olive Oil in Your Cooking
Infused olive oils are incredibly versatile and can be used to add flavor to a wide range of dishes. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Drizzling and Dipping
Infused olive oils make excellent finishing oils, ideal for drizzling over dishes just before serving. Garlic and herb-infused oils are perfect for dipping with fresh bread, while a drizzle of citrus-infused olive oil can brighten up salads or roasted vegetables.
Sautéing and Roasting
Use infused olive oils to add depth to sautéed vegetables or roasted meats. Herb-infused oils, such as rosemary or thyme, pair well with chicken, potatoes, and root vegetables, adding a fragrant touch during cooking.
Salads and Dressings
Infused olive oils work beautifully in salad dressings, combining well with vinegar, lemon juice, or mustard for a delicious vinaigrette. Basil-infused olive oil is a classic for Italian-style salads, while lemon-infused oil pairs wonderfully with green salads or fruit-based dishes.
Marinades and Sauces
Add an extra layer of flavor to marinades by using chili, garlic, or herb-infused olive oil. These oils infuse meats, tofu, or vegetables with flavor, creating a delicious base for grilling, baking, or stir-frying.
Baking and Desserts
Citrus-infused olive oils, such as lemon or orange, can be used in baking to add a subtle, fruity aroma to cakes, muffins, and cookies. A drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil over vanilla ice cream or yogurt adds an unexpected and delightful flavor twist.
Health Benefits of Infused Olive Oil
Infused olive oil retains the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil, including high levels of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Additionally, the ingredients used to infuse the oil can bring their own health benefits:
- Heart Health – Like extra virgin olive oil, infused olive oils are rich in healthy fats, which support heart health by improving cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation.
- Antioxidants – Infused oils often contain antioxidants from both the olive oil and the added ingredients. Garlic, herbs, and chili peppers all have antioxidants that contribute to reducing oxidative stress in the body.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties – Ingredients like garlic and chili have anti-inflammatory compounds, adding potential health benefits when infused into olive oil.
- Boosts Flavor Without Additional Calories – Infused olive oils enhance dishes without adding extra sugars, salt, or calories, allowing for flavorful and health-conscious cooking.
Tips for Choosing the Best Infused Olive Oil
With so many infused olive oils on the market, choosing the right one can be challenging. Here are some tips for selecting the best infused olive oil:
Look for High-Quality Olive Oil as a Base
The best infused olive oils start with a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Look for oils that are cold-pressed and unrefined, as these retain the most nutrients and flavor. A quality base will ensure that the infused flavors shine through without compromising on taste or health benefits.
Check for Natural Ingredients
When purchasing infused olive oils, check the label to ensure that natural ingredients are used. Avoid oils with artificial flavors or preservatives, as they can affect the taste and quality of the product.
Consider the Flavor Strength
Different infused oils have varying levels of intensity. For example, truffle and garlic oils tend to be strong, so a little goes a long way. Citrus-infused oils are generally milder and more versatile, pairing well with both savory and sweet dishes.
Opt for Dark Bottles
Light exposure can degrade the quality of olive oil, so choose infused oils in dark glass bottles. This helps to preserve the flavor and nutritional properties for a longer shelf life.
Making Your Own Infused Olive Oil at Home
If you prefer a hands-on approach, making infused olive oil at home is simple and allows you to control the flavors and ingredients. Here’s a basic method for creating your own garlic or herb-infused olive oil:
Ingredients
- 1 cup of high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, peeled and crushed (for garlic-infused oil)
- Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil (for herb-infused oil)
- Optional: Chili flakes or citrus peels for added flavor
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: If using garlic, peel and crush the cloves. For herbs, rinse and pat them dry to remove any excess moisture.
- Heat the Oil: Place the olive oil in a small saucepan and add your flavor ingredients. Warm the oil on low heat for about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to let the oil smoke or boil, as this can affect the taste and degrade the quality.
- Strain and Cool: Remove from heat, let the oil cool, and strain out the solids. This prevents bacterial growth and extends the shelf life.
- Store in a Clean, Dark Bottle: Pour the cooled oil into a clean, dark glass bottle. Store it in a cool, dark place and use within 1-2 weeks for the best flavor.
Safety Note
Homemade infused oils should be stored in the refrigerator and used within a couple of weeks to prevent bacterial growth. Oils containing fresh garlic, in particular, have a higher risk of contamination if left unrefrigerated for long periods.
Where to Buy Infused Olive Oil in the UK
If you prefer to buy infused olive oil rather than making it at home, there are several excellent options in the UK:
Specialty Stores
Gourmet and specialty stores, like The Olive Oil Co. and Harvey Nichols, offer a curated selection of infused olive oils in flavors like garlic, basil, and truffle. These shops often carry premium, artisan oils that are perfect for gifts or special occasions.
Farmers’ Markets
Many UK farmers’ markets feature local producers offering infused olive oils. These markets are a great way to sample different flavors and find oils crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Online Retailers
Online platforms such as Amazon, BoroughBox, The Olive Architects and Oliveology provide a wide selection of infused olive oils, including unique flavors that may not be available in stores. Be sure to check for customer reviews and product descriptions to ensure quality.
Final Thoughts on Infused Olive Oil
Infused olive oil is a delightful way to elevate your cooking with minimal effort, adding vibrant flavors and aromas to both simple and gourmet dishes. Whether you enjoy the spice of chili oil, the richness of garlic, or the brightness of lemon, there’s an infused olive oil for every palate and culinary need. With proper storage and thoughtful pairings, infused olive oils can become a versatile and healthful addition to your kitchen. Whether you buy it or make it yourself, infused olive oil brings flavor, health benefits, and a touch of creativity to everyday meals.
