How To Freeze Fresh Herbs In Oil

Cooking with herbs is a great way to infuse flavor into the food which can make food more appealing and stimulate appetite, enhancing the overall dining experience. As an herbalist and passionate gardener I grow many herbs during the summer months, and here I share my favorite way to preserve fresh herbs for cooking.

This guide will show you How to Freeze Fresh Herbs in Oil to preserve their fresh, aromatic flavor so you can enjoy them any time of year.

Nothing beats the scent and flavor of fresh herbs, right from the garden. Unfortunately, for some though, we only get to enjoy garden fresh herbs during the summer growing period. However, you can still enjoy their flavor by freezing them in oil and storing them in the freezer.

Finely chopped herbs mixed with extra virgin olive oil and frozen until use make for the perfect flavor booster for all your favorite recipes. Use whatever you have on hand, chop the herb finely and combine it with olive oil. You can prepare with a combination of herbs or freeze them with each herb individually.

Or, you can also add citrus flavoring like in this rosemary and lemon infused olive oil.

Ingredients

• Fresh herbs: Use whatever fresh herbs you have on hand; rosemary, thyme, oregano, cilantro, or parsley, chopped finely.
• Olive oil:  You extra virgin olive like this can olive oil for the best flavor and texture.

How To Freeze Herbs In Oil

• Wash and dry the herbs well by laying them on a towel on the kitchen counter until they are completely dry. Blot them as needed.
• Chop the fresh herbs to a really fine texture.
• Using a silicon mold for cookies, place herbs into each cavity.
• Drizzle with olive oil to completely cover and repeat until the whole tray is full.
• Cover and place in the freezer.
• Remove a cube as needed for cooking.

Note: If you don’t have a silicon cookie mold use an ice cube tray. Your cubes will be smaller but you can always use two if you wish.

Freeze a mix of herbs together or freeze each herb separately, or do a combination of both! 

How to use herbs in oil?

There are loads of way to use these fresh herbs in olive oil, here are a few suggestions:

• Drizzle over cooked or raw vegetables.
• Saute garlic, onions or other aromatics in the herb-infused oil.
• Add to a salad dressing for a fresh herby flavor.
• Stir into soups or stews for added flavor.
• Use as a marinade for chicken, fish or meat.
• Serve a dip for garlic bread, breadsticks or your favorite sourdough.

How To Store Fresh Herbs In Freezer

Frozen herbs will keep well in the freezer for up to 6 months. You can store them in the silicon cookie mold or once frozen transfer to an airtight container or plastic storage bag.

To use in cooking, add the frozen disc to the pot with your herbs. To use as salad dressing, a dip or a drizzle, let the disc thaw in the fridge until it turns into liquid.

There are many benefits of using herbs in cooking, here are a few to consider;

• Enhanced Flavor: Herbs add a burst of flavor to dishes, elevating the taste without the need for extra salt, sugar, or fat.
• Nutritional Boost: Many herbs are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example, parsley is high in vitamin C and iron, while basil is a good source of vitamin K.
• Health Benefits: Herbs have various medicinal properties. For instance, rosemary and thyme have anti-inflammatory compounds, while mint can aid digestion.
• Low-Calorie: Herbs can enhance the flavor of meals without adding extra calories, making them a healthy choice for those watching their weight.
• Aromatic Appeal: The aroma of fresh herbs can make food more appealing and stimulate appetite, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Versatility: Herbs can be used in a wide range of dishes, from soups and salads to main courses and desserts, offering endless culinary possibilities.
• Freshness and Vibrancy: Fresh herbs add color and vibrancy to dishes, making them look more appealing and appetizing.
• Cost-Effective: Growing your own herbs is relatively easy and inexpensive, providing a fresh supply of herbs at a fraction of the cost of store-bought options.
• Environmental Benefits: Using home-grown herbs can reduce the need for packaged, processed seasonings, contributing to less waste and a more sustainable kitchen.
• Cultural and Culinary Exploration: Cooking with herbs can introduce you to new cuisines and cultural dishes, broadening your culinary horizons and enhancing your cooking skills.

FAQs