DIY Herb-Infused Oils for Cooking

Reviewed by Dr. Judith Thompson, ACHS Dean of Herbal Medicine

Infused oils are a timeless way to capture the flavor and essence of herbs, spices, and botanicals. Making your own infused cooking oils is a rewarding and creative process that can elevate everyday dishes into culinary delights. These oils carry vibrant flavors that enhance salads, sautés, marinades, and more — and they make thoughtful homemade gifts!

Here’s a guide to making your own infused cooking oils, plus five recipes to inspire your kitchen creations.

Why Make Your Own Infused Oils?

Infused oils allow you to:

• Preserve the therapeutic properties of herbs.

• Add depth of flavor to cooking.

• Control ingredients and avoid synthetic additives.

• Create personalized, unique gifts that people can use.

Infusions can be made using a hot method (quick infusion) or a cold method (slow infusion). Hot infusions bring out flavors quickly, while cold infusions develop deeper, richer notes over time.

DIY Cooking Oil Recipes

Cooking oils infused with herbs and spices enhance flavors while adding health benefits. Olive oil, avocado oil, and grapeseed oil are excellent bases.

1. Garlic & Rosemary Infused Olive Oil

Ingredients:

• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 4 garlic cloves Allium sativum, minced

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary leaf Rosmarinus officinalis

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.

2. Heat on low for 20–30 minutes, avoiding boiling.

3. Let cool, then strain into a dark glass jar.

4. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 - 2 months.

Uses: Drizzle over roasted vegetables, pasta, or bruschetta for an herbal burst.

2. Lemon & Thyme Infused Avocado Oil

Ingredients:

• 1 cup avocado oil

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 3 sprigs fresh thyme Thymus vulgaris

Instructions:

1. Place ingredients in a dark glass jar. Ensure the thyme is completely submerged in the oil to prevent spoilage.

2. Seal and store in a cool, dark place for 1–2 weeks.

3. Shake gently every day.

4. Strain before use.

Uses: Perfect for salad dressings, grilled fish, or homemade marinades.

3. Chili & Oregano Infused Grapeseed Oil

Ingredients:

• 1 cup grapeseed oil

• 2 dried chili peppers

• 2 tsp dried oregano leaf Origanum onites

Instructions:

1. Combine ingredients in a small saucepan.

2. Heat gently for 15 minutes.

3. Let cool, strain, and store in a dark glass bottle.

Uses: Adds a spicy kick to pizza, pasta, or dipping bread.

4. Basil & Garlic Infused Olive Oil

Ingredients:

• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves Ocimum basilicum

• 2 garlic cloves Allium sativum, minced

Instructions:

1. Warm olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat.

2. Add basil and garlic, keeping the temperature low to avoid burning.

3. Simmer gently for 20 minutes.

4. Remove from heat, let cool, strain, and store in a dark glass jar.

5. Keep refrigerated for up to 1- 2 months.

Uses: Drizzle over caprese salad, pasta, or fresh bread for a fragrant Italian flavor.

5. Sage & Black Pepper Infused Walnut Oil

 Ingredients:

• 1 cup walnut oil

• 6 fresh sage leaves Salvia officinalis

• 1 tsp whole black peppercorns

Instructions:

1. Place walnut oil, sage leaves, and peppercorns in a small saucepan.

2. Heat gently on low for 15 minutes.

3. Remove from heat, let steep for 1 hour.

4. Strain into a clean dark glass bottle.

5. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 month.

Uses: Ideal for drizzling over roasted root vegetables, risotto, or autumn squash dishes.

Tips for Making Infused Oils Safely

• Always use clean, dry jars and utensils to prevent contamination.

• Store oils in dark glass bottles to protect against light damage.

• Label oils with the date and ingredients.

• When making culinary oils that use fresh herbs in a cold infusion, refrigerate and use within two weeks to avoid spoiling.

Curious about how to bring herbs and essential oils into everyday life with confidence? The Nature’s Remedies Community Certificate at ACHS gives you hands-on training in herbs, aromatherapy, and nutrition. It’s designed for people who want practical skills they can use to support their family and community.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. Always use herbs and essential oils with caution and keep out of reach of children. Use particular caution when pregnant or nursing. Always check contraindications and think safety first! The statements herein have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.