Basil Oil

Basil oil is perfect when you want a hint of basil but want to avoid overpowering the flavors of summer's ripest corn or tomatoes. Try drizzling it over just-grilled bread, tossing it with steamed green beans and sea salt, or pouring it over a cold summer soup like gazpacho.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups basil leaves
• 1 1/2 cups extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Basil Leaves
   Start by washing the basil leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. Dry leaves are crucial to prevent water from mixing with the oil, which can cause spoilage.
2. Blend the Ingredients
   Place the basil leaves in a blender or food processor. Pour in the extra-virgin olive oil. Blend the mixture quickly until the basil leaves are finely chopped and the oil is smooth and vibrant green.
3. Season the Oil
   Once the basil and oil mixture is blended, season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Depending on your preference, you can also add a small clove of garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Let it Rest
   Allow the mixture to rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the basil's aromatic qualities.
5. Strain the Oil (Optional)
   If you prefer a clearer basil oil, you can strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container. This step is optional but will produce a smoother, more refined oil.
6. Store the Basil Oil
   Transfer the basil oil to a sterilized glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Store it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and vibrant color. The basil oil can be stored for up to one week.
7. Serve and Enjoy
   Basil oil is incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving suggestions:
   Drizzle over Grilled Bread: Lightly toast slices of bread on the grill and drizzle with basil oil for a simple yet flavorful appetizer.
   Toss with Vegetables: Use the basil oil to dress steamed or roasted vegetables. It pairs well with green beans, asparagus, and roasted bell peppers.
   Finish Soups: For a burst of fresh flavor, add a swirl of basil oil to cold summer soups like gazpacho or vichyssoise.
   Enhance Salads: Use basil oil as a dressing for fresh salads or combine it with vinegar to create a delicious vinaigrette.
   Pasta and Pizza: Drizzle basil oil over pasta dishes or pizzas just before serving for an aromatic finish.

Additional Tips

• Freshness: Use the freshest basil leaves available to ensure the best flavor. Basil oil is best enjoyed when made with fresh, vibrant leaves.
• Sterilize Containers: Always sterilize your storage containers to prevent any contamination, which can affect the oil's shelf life.
• Creative Uses: Experiment with adding basil oil to various dishes. It can elevate the flavors of many meals from simple to sophisticated.

Enjoy this delightful and versatile basil oil and bring a touch of summer freshness to your culinary creations!