How to Use Basil Olive Oil in the Kitchen: Ideas and Pairings
Few combinations capture the taste of an Italian summer quite like high-quality extra virgin olive oil and the intense, fresh aroma of basil. Basil olive oil is one of those seasonings that may seem simple, yet behind its simplicity lie balance, careful production and great versatility in the kitchen. In this guide, we’ll explore what this seasoning is, how it is made, its properties and, most importantly, how to use basil olive oil to bring a touch of Mediterranean flavour to your everyday cooking.
What Is Basil-Flavoured Olive Oil?
Basil-flavoured olive oil brings together two Mediterranean favourites: high-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh basil leaves, often the Genovese variety, known for its distinctive yet delicate aroma. There are two main ways of making basil-flavoured olive oil:
- Cold infusion: fresh basil leaves are left to infuse in the oil for several weeks in a cool, dark place, allowing their aromas to gradually transfer to the oil.
- Co-milling: the basil is added directly to the olive during milling, allowing the two ingredients to come together from the very beginning. The result is an oil with a more intense and harmonious flavour.
For our organic production, we favour this second method because it helps preserve the aroma over time while maintaining the distinctive sensory qualities of the extra virgin olive oil.
Organic Basil Olive Oil: Properties and Benefits
As it is made with extra virgin olive oil, basil olive oil has the nutritional characteristics associated with EVOO, including monounsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols and vitamin E. Meanwhile, basil contains essential oils and is valued for its fresh, herbaceous aroma.
Choosing an organic product also means choosing ingredients from farming systems that avoid synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilisers. This applies both to the olives and to the basil, helping to preserve the purity and distinctive character of the ingredients.
How to Use Olive Oil in Cooking?
Basil-flavoured olive oil is best used as a finishing oil: add it towards the end of cooking or drizzle it directly over the finished dish, so you can enjoy the full freshness and aroma of the basil. Here are some of the pairings that work particularly well:
- Bruschetta and crostini: drizzle a few drops over toasted bread topped with fresh cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt for a simple Italian summer starter.
- Tomato or aglio e olio pasta: drizzle our basil olive oil over our organic pasta once it is off the heat. It adds depth without overpowering the other flavours. Our bronze-drawn pasta has a rough texture that helps it hold onto the sauce.
- Caprese salad: instead of fresh basil leaves, drizzle it over the mozzarella and tomatoes for a more even touch of basil. It is also perfect outside the summer season, when fresh basil is less readily available.
- Soups: add a teaspoon just before serving for a fresh note that complements warm, comforting dishes.
- Fish or meat carpaccio: the aroma of basil pairs well with the delicate flavours of raw fish or meat.
- Pizza: add a few drops after baking as an alternative to fresh basil.
- Marinades: use it to flavour meat, fish or grilled vegetables before cooking.
A simple rule applies to all of these uses: a little goes a long way. Basil olive oil is there to enhance the other ingredients, not overpower them so use it sparingly.
Homemade or Ready-Made Basil Olive Oil: What’s the Difference?
Making basil olive oil at home is possible, but it requires care. Fresh basil leaves must be completely dry before coming into contact with the oil, as any residual moisture can encourage mould growth and, in more serious cases, create a risk of botulism in a low-oxygen environment. The oil also needs to infuse for several weeks and must be stored carefully, away from light.
A professionally produced organic extra virgin olive oil flavoured with basil, on the other hand, is made under controlled food-safety conditions, has a longer shelf life and delivers a consistent flavour from one bottle to the next. It offers a balance between the quality of a carefully crafted product and the convenience of everyday use.
How to Store Basil Flavoured Olive Oil?
To preserve its properties, basil olive oil should be stored:
- in a cool, dark place, away from sources of heat and direct sunlight,
- in a dark glass bottle to protect it from light and help prevent oxidation,
- tightly closed after each use to minimise contact with air.
Frequently Asked Questions About Basil Olive Oil
Can you use basil olive oil for cooking or is it best used raw?
It is best used raw or towards the end of cooking, as prolonged heat can cause the basil’s volatile aromas to dissipate, reducing much of its characteristic flavour.
How long does basil olive oil last once opened?
When stored correctly, in a dark place and with the bottle tightly closed, professionally produced basil olive oil retains its qualities for several months. Homemade versions have a shorter shelf life and should generally be kept in the refrigerator for a few weeks.
Is basil olive oil suitable for a vegan or vegetarian diet?
Yes, as it is made solely from extra virgin olive oil and basil, it is naturally suitable for both vegan and vegetarian diets.
What is the difference between basil olive oil and pesto?
Pesto also contains pine nuts, cheese, garlic and salt, and has a thicker consistency. Basil olive oil, on the other hand, is a liquid seasoning designed to be drizzled over food without overpowering the other ingredients.
Where can I buy good organic basil olive oil?
For quality and safety, choose a certified organic basil olive oil from a producer that oversees the entire supply chain, from growing the olives and basil to bottling. You can find our basil olive oil directly in our online shop, together with our selection of organic dressings.
The Taste of Tradition in Every Drizzle
Basil olive oil is simple to use, yet it can transform everyday dishes into richer, more aromatic creations. Whether it’s a quick bruschetta or a traditional Sunday pasta dish, the secret is always the same: start with quality ingredients. Our organic extra virgin olive oil and carefully selected basil are the foundation of our basil-flavoured oil, created to bring all the taste of Mediterranean tradition to your table. Discover our selection of Taste organic flavoured olive oils to find the perfect pairing for your favourite recipes.