A Drizzle of Yumminess - Garlic & Herb Infused Olive Oil

Hello Bloomers!

If you’ve ever enjoyed dipping a warm piece of bread into flavorful, aromatic olive oil, you know just how delightful it can be.  But why settle for store-bought when you can create your own custom-flavored olive oil at home? In today’s post, I’m sharing an easy recipe for garlic and herb flavored oil that’s bursting with flavor, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen! 

This is also one of my favorite go-to gifts — it’s an absolute game-changer for bread dipping, drizzling over salads, or enhancing a homemade pizza. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make, thanks to dried herbs! No chopping, no fuss—just mix, bottle, and enjoy. It’s a thoughtful, elegant gift for hosts, food lovers, or anyone who enjoys gourmet flavors in their kitchen.

Why Use Dried Herbs?

While fresh herbs have their charm, dried herbs are ideal for infusions because:

✔ They last longer in the oil without spoiling

✔ They release deep, concentrated flavors over time

✔ No need to worry about mold or botulism risk (which can happen with fresh garlic stored in oil)

So let’s dive into making the most delicious, gift-worthy garlic and herb dipping oil!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of extra virgin olive oil (the quality of your olive oil really shines through, so choose a good one!)

• 1 tablespoon dried Italian herb blend

  • I used McCormick Gourmet Organic Italian Seasoning which contains basil, rosemary, thyme, marjoram, sage and oregano

• 1 tablespoon dried chopped garlic

• ½ teaspoon ground sea salt

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 8.5-ounce glass bottle, with lid and shrink cap (I buy mine on Amazon)

• Gift tag

• Optional: when serving add fresh grated parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, and for those that like a little bite, crushed red pepper!

Steps to Make Garlic & Herb Dipping Oil:

1. Measure: Mix all ingredients together and funnel into your bottle. 

2. Pour in olive oil: Fill the bottle with high-quality extra virgin olive oil, ensuring all ingredients are fully submerged. 

3. Seal and steep: Screw the cap tightly on the bottle, apply shrink cap and heat seal, and let it sit at room temperature for a few days, allowing the flavors to infuse into the oil.  Store in a cool, dark place.

4. Gift: Add a cute ribbon around the bottle neck and a personalized tag for that extra special touch!  (template shown can be found in my Etsy shop)

Add-On Ideas & Flavor Variations

Want to get even more creative with your flavored olive oils? Here are a few ideas to mix it up:

• Chili & Garlic Olive Oil: For a spicy twist, use dried chili flakes or fresh dried chilies along with garlic for a heat-packed infusion.

• Rosemary & Lavender Olive Oil: If you love floral notes, adding dried lavender with rosemary creates a beautiful and fragrant combination perfect for drizzling on roasted vegetables or meats.

• Truffle Olive Oil: If you’re feeling fancy, a few drops of truffle oil mixed with olive oil can elevate any dish with that luxurious earthy flavor.

Making homemade flavored olive oil is so easy, incredibly delicious, and a fantastic way to impress guests or gift loved ones. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself or packaging it as a thoughtful hostess gift, this simple recipe is a must-try.

What flavors would you love to infuse? Let me know in the comments!