Olive oils take on a new dimension when infused with flavors straight from the garden. Flavored oils perk up most ordinary dishes, from grilled fish to mashed potatoes.
Among favorite combinations:basil,cilantro,and mint;the classic duo of rosemary and garlic;and saffron(very expensive),which adds an earthy flare to pasta, soups, and (my favorite) vegetables. For the best taste, combine oils with herbs and spices in a heavy pan over very low heat for a few minutes. "Heating, extracts the flavor and activates the oil,"
For 1 cup of olive oil,use your choice of 11/2 cups of soft, fresh herbs(basil, cilantro, mint);1/2 cup of pungent ones (rosemary); 5 cloves of garlic;thinly sliced;or 2 pinches of ground spices such as saffron(mix ground spices in about 1 teaspoon of boiling water to make a pasta first, and then pour the heated oil on top). Once bubbles start to form on the surface, remove the mixture from the heat and steep overnite. Strain, pour into glass jars, and refrigerate, where it will keep for at least a month.
Experiment and bring pizazz to a favorite dish.