Lemon infused olive oil is created by gently heating olive oil with lemon peels, allowing the oil to absorb the bright, zesty flavor of the citrus. This simple infusion process results in an aromatic oil that enhances salads, marinades, and more. While commercial lemon-infused oils can be pricey, making your own at home is easy and cost-effective.

Ingredients Needed

To make your own lemon-infused olive oil, you will need:

2 medium-sized lemons (preferably organic)
1 cup of extra virgin olive oil
Vegetable peeler (or a sharp knife)
Small saucepan
Fine mesh strainer
Glass jar or bottle for storage

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Lemons:

Wash the lemons thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides.
Using a vegetable peeler, carefully remove the zest from the lemons in large strips, avoiding the white pith, which can impart a bitter taste.

Heat the Olive Oil:

Pour the olive oil into a small saucepan and add the lemon peels.
Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches a simmer. Be cautious not to let the temperature exceed 150°F (65°C).

Infuse the Oil:

Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the oil simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the lemon flavor to infuse into the oil.

Cool and Strain:

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the oil cool to room temperature.
Strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer into a sterilized glass jar or bottle, discarding the lemon peels.

Store the Oil:

Seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator. The lemon-infused olive oil will keep for about a month.

Lemon infused olive oil can be used in various culinary applications, adding a burst of flavor to your dishes. Here are some popular uses:

1. Salad Dressings

Combine lemon-infused olive oil with vinegar, herbs, and spices to create refreshing vinaigrettes. It pairs wonderfully with balsamic vinegar for a simple yet delicious dressing.

2. Marinades

Use this infused oil as a base for marinades for chicken, fish, or vegetables. The lemon flavor enhances the dish and adds a bright note.

3. Pasta Dishes

Toss cooked pasta with lemon olive oil, black pepper, salt, and fresh basil for a quick and flavorful meal. You can also add vegetables or proteins for a more substantial dish.

4. Bread Dip

Serve lemon-infused olive oil as a dip for fresh bread. Add herbs and spices for an extra kick.

5. Roasted Vegetables

Drizzle the oil over vegetables before roasting to enhance their flavor and add a citrusy twist.

Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Organic lemons are recommended to avoid pesticides, especially since you’ll be using the zest.
Avoid the Pith: Be careful when peeling the lemons to avoid the bitter white pith, which can ruin the taste of your oil.
Storage: For longer shelf life, store the infused oil in the refrigerator and use it within a month. If you want to extend its shelf life further, strain out the lemon peels before bottling.

Making lemon-infused olive oil is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your culinary creations. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a fragrant oil that adds brightness to salads, marinades, and more. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious flavor of lemon-infused olive oil in your cooking!