BHA & BHT Free Peppercorn Herb Oil
Infused oils from the store often contain synthetic preservatives like BHA and BHT to extend shelf life, which makes finding a truly clean version frustratingly difficult. This one skips all of that entirely — just extra-virgin olive oil, fresh herbs, cracked peppercorns, a hit of red pepper flakes, and a little lemon zest to brighten everything up. The process is slow and gentle by design: warming the oil over low heat coaxes out deep, aromatic flavor from the rosemary and thyme without scorching anything or turning the herbs bitter. That 10-minute steep off the heat is where the magic really happens, letting the pepper and citrus settle into the oil before it gets strained clean. The result is a glossy, boldly flavored finishing oil that's gorgeous drizzled over roasted vegetables, grilled bread, pasta, or a simple cheese plate. Optional fresh parsley stirred in at the end adds a pop of color and a grassy note that makes it look almost too pretty to use — almost.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp black peppercorns, coarsely cracked
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 tsp lemon zest (from about ½ lemon)
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Crack the black peppercorns coarsely using a mortar and pestle or the flat side of a heavy skillet — you want rough, uneven pieces, not a fine powder.
- 2
Combine the olive oil, cracked peppercorns, red pepper flakes, thyme sprigs, and rosemary sprigs in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat until the oil is fragrant and small bubbles form lazily around the herbs, about 3–5 minutes. Do not let the oil simmer vigorously or the herbs will turn bitter.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!