Citrus-Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your culinary creations with this easy and delightful Citrus-Infused Olive Oil, a vibrant addition that complements a wide range of dishes. Instead of splurging on store-bought versions, craft your own infusion at home using fresh oranges or lemons. Not only is it ready in just an hour, but you can also scale the recipe down to make smaller batches as needed. Perfect for drizzling over salads, marinating proteins like shrimp, or simply dipping fresh bread, this infusion captures the essence of citrus and adds a zesty kick to your favorite meals.
1
Servings
1920
Calories
2
Ingredients
Ingredients
Oranges
2 (peel only)
Olive Oil
1 cup (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by thoroughly washing the oranges (or lemons) to remove any residues.
2
Using a vegetable peeler or a knife, carefully remove the outer peel of the oranges or lemons, avoiding as much of the white pith as possible to prevent bitterness.
3
In a food processor, combine the citrus peels and the olive oil.
4
Pulse the mixture until the peels are finely chopped and well blended into the oil.
5
Transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight container, and let it sit at room temperature for one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
6
Once the marinating time has elapsed, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean jar to remove the citrus peel.
7
Seal the jar and store in a cool, dark place. Use within a month for optimal flavor.
Nutrition Information
216g
Fat
0g
Carbs
0g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Citrus-Infused Olive Oil?
Citrus-Infused Olive Oil is a vibrant culinary addition made by blending olive oil with the zest of fresh oranges or lemons to create a flavored oil for drizzling and marinating.
How do I make Citrus-Infused Olive Oil at home?
You can make it by pulsing citrus peels with olive oil in a food processor, letting the mixture sit for an hour, and then straining it into a clean jar.
What ingredients are required for this recipe?
You only need two fresh oranges (or lemons) and one cup of olive oil.
Can I use lemons instead of oranges?
Yes, you can use lemons instead of oranges to create a lemon-flavored olive oil infusion.
How long does it take to prepare this infusion?
The preparation involves about 5-10 minutes of active work and one hour of sitting time to let the flavors meld.
Why should I avoid the white pith of the citrus fruit?
The white pith can introduce a bitter taste to the oil, so it is best to only use the outer colored part of the peel.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, Citrus-Infused Olive Oil is entirely vegan and plant-based.
How many calories are in this recipe?
The entire recipe contains approximately 1920 calories.
Is this a low-protein recipe?
Yes, this recipe contains 0g of protein, making it suitable for low-protein diets.
How should I store the finished infused oil?
Store the oil in a sealed jar in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality.
How long does Citrus-Infused Olive Oil stay fresh?
For the best flavor, use the oil within one month of preparation.
Can I use this oil for dipping bread?
Absolutely, it is an excellent choice for dipping fresh bread.
Is it possible to scale down this recipe?
Yes, you can easily scale the recipe down to make smaller batches as needed.
What are some common uses for citrus-infused oil?
It is perfect for drizzling over salads, marinating proteins like shrimp, or as a finishing oil for various dishes.
Do I need a food processor for this recipe?
A food processor is used to pulse the peels and oil together, but a high-speed blender or very fine hand-mincing could also work.
How long should the mixture marinate before straining?
The mixture should sit at room temperature for one hour before you strain out the solids.
Can I use this oil for marinating seafood?
Yes, the citrus notes make it an ideal marinade for proteins like shrimp and other seafood.
What type of strainer should I use?
Use a fine mesh strainer or a cheesecloth to remove the citrus peels from the oil.
Should I leave the peels in the oil?
No, the instructions recommend straining the oil after one hour to remove the citrus peel pieces.
Does this oil contain any sugar?
No, this recipe contains 0g of sugar.
How much fat is in this recipe?
The total fat content for the recipe is approximately 216g.
Can I use other citrus fruits like limes?
While the recipe specifies oranges or lemons, limes or grapefruits can also be used for different flavor profiles.
Why must the fruit be washed thoroughly?
Washing removes any residues, waxes, or pesticides from the skin before peeling.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The recipe is calculated as one single batch, though it is typically consumed in tablespoon increments.
Is there any sodium in this infused oil?
No, this recipe does not contain any sodium.
What kind of olive oil should I use?
A high-quality extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor results.
Does the oil need to be refrigerated?
While a cool dark place is sufficient, refrigeration can help preserve it longer, though the oil may solidify in the cold.
Can I add other herbs to this infusion?
Yes, you can add herbs like rosemary or thyme to create a more complex flavor profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Citrus-Infused Olive Oil is naturally gluten-free.
What is the best way to remove the citrus peel?
Using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to carefully remove the outer zest without the white pith is the most effective method.