How to Make Basil Dipping Oil

In a decorative bottle, this oil makes a great gift.

Summertime is the perfect time to grow basil in quantities large enough for pesto or basil dipping oil for breads. As the basil sits in the oil, it imparts its flavor. Use the herbal oil as a dipping oil for foccacia or other Italian bread.

Things You'll Need

• Fresh basil
• Clean bottle with screw top
• Extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. Harvest your own basil in early morning or later evening so that it maintains its firm shape. If using store bought basil, simply choose the smaller stem and leaf sections.

2. Clean fresh basil by running under cool water. Then towel pat dry. Don't soak it as it will become too soggy to work with.

3. Add extra virgin olive oil to an attractive, clean bottle. Leave 2 inches of head room to add the herbs.

4. Carefully place full stems of basil into the bottle of olive oil. Use a skewer or other tool to move the stems where you want them in the bottle. Fill oil to cover all leaves exposed, leaving approximately 1 inch of head room in the bottle.

5. Place the bottle in indirect sunlight for a week for a mild basil dipping oil and longer for a stronger infusion.

Tips & Warnings

• No need to remove basil from oil.

• Consider adding purple and green basil for nice color.