Spice Free Garlic Mint Herb Oil
This fragrant infused oil is proof that bold, complex flavor doesn't require a single spice from the rack. Extra-virgin olive oil forms the silky base, gently warmed with smashed garlic until it turns just barely golden — that slow, low-heat process coaxes out deep savory sweetness without any harshness. Fresh mint, flat-leaf parsley, and thyme then steep off the heat, turning the oil a gorgeous pale green and layering in bright, herby notes that feel almost luxurious. The whole thing gets strained clean, so what you're left with is a smooth, aromatic oil that's completely free of dried chiles, pepper blends, or any of the usual flavor shortcuts that can make store-bought infused oils off-limits. It's endlessly versatile — drizzle it over roasted vegetables, swirl it into soup, or use it as a dipping oil for crusty bread. The only heat here is the gentle warmth of the stovetop, and the only "spice" is the natural zing of fresh garlic and herbs doing exactly what they do best.
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Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, lightly smashed and peeled
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
- ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves and tender stems, loosely packed
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
Instructions
- 1
Combine the olive oil and smashed garlic cloves in a small saucepan over low heat. Warm gently until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn pale gold at the edges, about 6–8 minutes — watch closely, as garlic can brown quickly and turn bitter.
- 2
Remove the pan from the heat and add the mint leaves, parsley, and thyme sprigs. Let the herbs steep in the warm oil, off the heat, for 15–20 minutes, until the oil is deeply fragrant and has taken on a light green tint.
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