Coconut Free Peppercorn Herb Oil
Fragrant, peppery, and deeply herby, this infused olive oil is the kind of finishing touch that makes simple food taste like it came from a restaurant kitchen. Warm olive oil coaxes the best out of cracked black peppercorns, fresh thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes, creating a bold, aromatic blend that's miles ahead of anything bottled. A hit of lemon zest stirred in off the heat keeps things bright and balanced, while optional fresh parsley adds a pop of color if you want it. Many store-bought flavored oils sneak in unexpected additives or use carrier oils that can be a concern, so making your own from scratch means you know exactly what's in the jar. The technique is gentle by design — low heat and a slow steep pull out maximum flavor without turning the herbs bitter. Drizzle it over grilled bread, roasted vegetables, pasta, or a simple cheese board and watch it disappear. It keeps in the fridge for up to five days, so you can make a batch ahead and reach for it all week long.
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!