How to Make Herb Infused Oils at Home

Don’t let those leftover herbs go to waste! Try this quick and easy homemade herb-infused olive oil. If you have a garden full of herbs at the end of the season, harvest them and bring them in before the frost hits. With a few simple ingredients, you can transform them into something delicious! This tasty rosemary oil is perfect drizzled over salads, roasted potatoes, or freshly toasted bread. (It also makes an excellent Christmas gift for the foodie in your life).

What you need to make herb-infused oil:

Freshly picked herbs
Mason jar (or other airtight glass containers) – 2 sizes
Extra Virgin olive oil
Stockpot
Fine mesh sieve

How to make Rosemary Infused Olive Oil

Harvest your herbs. I used rosemary this time, but other good options are basil, oregano, and lavender. It’s best to harvest your herbs in the morning or evening when they are most pungent.
Prep your herbs. Wash, dry, and remove leaves from the stems. On a cutting board, press down with the blade of a large knife to slightly crush the herbs, releasing the natural oils.
You need enough to fill your mason jar.
Fill your container. Add enough rosemary to fill the jar and top with extra virgin olive oil. Seal your jar tightly.
Boil the jars. Put a few inches of water in a large stock pot and bring it to a boil. Place your jars carefully inside, standing up, and let boil for about one minute. Remove from the pot and let cool.
Let it sit. It takes time for all the rosemary goodness to flavour the oil. Shake up the jar once a week for three weeks, and then you’re ready to strain.
Strain the oil. Removing the solids will extend the shelf life of your oil. Using a fine mesh sieve, strain out all the bits of rosemary. Pour it into a smaller jar, label your oil, and it’s ready to use!

How to Store Your Herb-Infused Oil

If you have removed all the solid ingredients, your infused oil will last up to a year in the fridge. It will keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-4 weeks.

Ways to Use Your Oil

Salad dressing – Use your infused oil instead of extra virgin olive oil in homemade salad dressings.

Seasoning – Drizzle over freshly toasted focaccia, popcorn, or roasted veggies.

Moisturizer – While not scientifically proven, it is suggested that rosemary can help improve circulation and nourish hair follicles and has been used as a remedy for hair loss.

Rosemary infused olive oil is the perfect use for any leftover herbs. Whether you keep it in your kitchen or give it as a Christmas gift, someone will love this tasty oil!