Basil-Infused Olive Oil with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Experience the deep, rich flavor of sun-dried tomatoes infused with the earthy aroma of fresh basil, all enveloped in golden olive oil. This luxurious combination enhances the natural sweetness of tomatoes while providing a bold flavor profile perfect for various culinary applications. Use this basil-infused olive oil as a vibrant dressing for salads, a delightful dip for crusty bread, or as a fragrant base for pasta dishes. The added bonus? You can enjoy the flavorful olive oil itself, making your cooking deliciously effortless. Remember to refrigerate and enjoy this delightful blend within a month for the best taste and freshness.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dried tomatoes
4 cups (approximately from 12-16 cups fresh tomatoes; see the sun-dried tomatoes recipe for details)
Olive oil
1/4-1/2 cup (extra virgin preferred, adjust according to your taste)
Fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup (washed and trimmed)
Instructions
1
Start by sterilizing a pint-sized jar to ensure safety. Wash the jar with soapy water, then pour boiling water over both the inside and outside. Additionally, boil the screw band and lid in hot water for extra sterilization.
2
Once the jar is thoroughly dried, begin to layer the dried tomatoes at the bottom. Use a clean skewer or spoon to gently pack the tomatoes together.
3
Add a few sprigs of fresh basil on top of the tomatoes, then continue the layering process, alternating between tomatoes and basil until the jar is packed snugly.
4
Once filled, slowly pour in olive oil, ensuring it completely covers the tomatoes and basil.
5
To remove any trapped air pockets, gently insert the skewer or handle of a spoon down the sides of the jar several times, making sure that the olive oil fully incorporates around the solids.
6
Finally, seal the jar securely with the sterilized lid and band. Store the jar in the refrigerator and enjoy within one month.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Basil-Infused Olive Oil with Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
It is a luxurious combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil leaves infused in olive oil, used as a dressing, dip, or pasta base.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
This recipe requires three main ingredients: dried tomatoes, olive oil, and fresh basil leaves.
What type of tomatoes should be used?
The recipe calls for dried tomatoes, which can be prepared from approximately 12 to 16 cups of fresh tomatoes.
How many cups of fresh tomatoes are needed to make 4 cups of dried tomatoes?
It takes about 12 to 16 cups of fresh tomatoes to produce the 4 cups of dried tomatoes required for this recipe.
What kind of olive oil is recommended?
Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its superior flavor, though you can adjust the amount between 1/4 and 1/2 cup to your taste.
How do I prepare the fresh basil leaves?
The 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves should be washed and trimmed before being added to the jar.
Is it necessary to sterilize the jar?
Yes, sterilizing a pint-sized jar is essential for safety and to prevent spoilage.
How do I sterilize the jar and lid?
Wash the jar with soapy water, then pour boiling water over the inside and outside. Boil the screw band and lid separately in hot water.
What is the first step in assembling the ingredients?
Once the sterilized jar is dry, start by layering the dried tomatoes at the bottom, packing them gently with a clean skewer or spoon.
How should the tomatoes and basil be layered?
Place a few sprigs of fresh basil on top of the tomatoes, then alternate layers of tomatoes and basil until the jar is snugly packed.
When do I add the olive oil?
Add the olive oil once the jar is filled with the tomato and basil layers, ensuring the oil completely covers all solids.
How do I remove air pockets from the jar?
Gently insert a skewer or the handle of a spoon down the sides of the jar several times to release trapped air.
Why is it important to remove air pockets?
Removing air pockets ensures the olive oil fully incorporates around the solids, which helps in preservation and flavor distribution.
How should the jar be stored?
The jar should be sealed securely with a sterilized lid and band and then stored in the refrigerator.
How long does the infused olive oil stay fresh?
For the best taste and freshness, the blend should be enjoyed within one month of preparation.
Can I use this recipe as a salad dressing?
Yes, this basil-infused oil and tomato mixture makes a vibrant and flavorful dressing for salads.
Is this infused oil suitable for bread?
Yes, it serves as a delightful and aromatic dip for crusty bread.
Can I use this for pasta dishes?
Absolutely, it works perfectly as a fragrant base for various pasta recipes.
Can I use the oil by itself?
Yes, the flavorful infused olive oil can be used independently in your cooking to make preparation effortless.
What size jar should I use?
The recipe is designed for a pint-sized jar.
What tools are needed for packing the jar?
A clean skewer or the handle of a spoon is recommended for packing the ingredients and removing air.
Does the recipe specify a preparation for the tomatoes?
The tomatoes should be dried; if starting from fresh, you will need 12-16 cups of fresh tomatoes to get the required amount.
Is this recipe part of a specific cuisine?
Yes, it is associated with Italian cuisine and is categorized as a condiment or preserved tomato recipe.
What flavor profile can I expect?
Expect a deep, rich flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes combined with the earthy aroma of fresh basil.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
The recipe specifically recommends fresh basil leaves for the best earthy aroma and flavor profile.
Should the oil cover the basil and tomatoes completely?
Yes, it is crucial that the olive oil completely covers the solids to ensure proper infusion and safety.
What is the ingredient count for this recipe?
There are 3 main ingredients: dried tomatoes, olive oil, and fresh basil leaves.
What if I have leftover tomatoes?
The recipe uses 4 cups of dried tomatoes; any extras can be used in other recipes or stored separately.
Is the screw band sterilized differently than the jar?
The screw band and lid should be boiled in hot water for extra sterilization, similar to the jar process.
Can I adjust the amount of basil?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup, but the layering process allows you to pack the jar snugly according to your preference.