Gourmet Gifting: Five Uniquely Infused Olive Oils To Elevate Your Next Meal
Infused olive oils are the ultimate present for anyone who loves to cook, experiment in the kitchen, or simply enjoys a drizzle of something extraordinary on their dishes. Infused olive oils are as gourmet as it gets. Think beyond the usual suspects: we're talking about unique, eclectic infusions that can add a zing to any meal across the board.
Before we jump into the fun stuff, let's get a quick 101 on infusing olive oils. It’s simple: top-quality extra virgin olive oil meets your choice of herbs, spices, or even fruits. The key is to use fresh, clean ingredients and let them steep in the oil to release their flavours.
Lavender & Lemon Infusion
Let’s begin with a soothing lavender and lemon-infused olive oil. Combine a tablespoon of dried lavender flowers and the zest of two lemons with 500 ml of extra virgin olive oil.
Let this mixture sit for about a week, shaking it occasionally. The result is a beautifully fragrant oil that’s perfect for drizzling over fresh salads or adding a floral touch to some de-lish roasted chicken.
Ginger & Sesame Infusion
Let's add an Asian twist to our list with ginger and sesame-infused olive oil. Peel and thinly slice a thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger and combine it with 500 ml of olive oil and a tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds.
After a week, you'll have an oil that’s bursting with flavour, ideal for stir-fries or as a salad dressing base. It’s the kind of bottle that turns a mundane meal into something magical.
Truffle & Thyme Infusion
For the ultimate in gourmet gifting, consider a truffle and thyme-infused olive oil. Truffles are the epitome of luxury, and paired with the earthy notes of thyme, they create an unforgettable flavour.
Use a small amount of truffle oil (about 10 ml) to enhance 500 ml of olive oil, and add a few sprigs of fresh thyme. Let it steep for at least a week. This infusion is perfect for finishing a risotto or drizzling over a steak. It’s a gift that says, “I have impeccable taste and I’m sharing it with you.” (hair flip).
Basil & Black Pepper Infusion
Combine a handful of fresh basil leaves and a tablespoon of whole black peppercorns with 500 ml of olive oil. Let it steep for a week to allow the flavours to meld. This infusion is fantastic for drizzling over caprese salads, pasta dishes, or using as a dip for crusty bread.
Rosemary & Orange Infusion
Lastly, let’s get a little experimental with a rosemary and orange-infused olive oil. Combine a few sprigs of fresh rosemary and the zest of one orange with 500 ml of olive oil.
Let it steep for about two weeks to fully develop its flavours (patience is key). This aromatic infusion is ideal for roasting potatoes, drizzling over roasted root vegetables, or adding a gourmet touch to your favourite bread dip.
