Can You Freeze Olive Oil with Herbs?

Yes, you absolutely can freeze olive oil with herbs! This is an excellent method for preserving the freshness and flavor of your favorite herbs, making them readily available for cooking whenever you need them.

Freezing herbs in olive oil creates convenient, pre-portioned cubes that can be easily added to a variety of dishes, saving you time and reducing food waste.

How to Freeze Herb-Infused Olive Oil Cubes

The process of freezing herbs in olive oil is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare Your Herbs: Start with fresh, clean herbs. You can either chop them finely or leave them whole, depending on your preference and how you plan to use them. Popular choices include basil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, and chives.
2. Pack Herbs into Ice Cube Molds: Distribute the prepared herbs into the compartments of an ice cube tray. Be careful not to overfill, ensuring there is enough room for the oil to cover them completely.
3. Add Oil and Freeze: As referenced from a September 20, 2018, guide on freezing herbs, you should "Cover the herbs in olive oil (or other oil of choice) and fill almost up to the top of the molds." Once filled, place the ice cube tray in the freezer until the cubes are completely solid.
4. Store Properly: Once frozen solid, pop the herb-infused olive oil cubes out of the trays. Transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. This prevents freezer burn and helps maintain their flavor and aroma for longer. Remember to label the container with the type of herb and the date.

Why Freeze Herbs in Olive Oil?

This preservation method offers several compelling advantages for any home cook:

• Preserves Flavor and Nutrients: Freezing in oil helps to protect the delicate cell structure of the herbs, locking in their vibrant flavor and essential nutrients far better than air-drying.
• Ultimate Convenience: Having pre-portioned cubes means you can simply grab one or two whenever a recipe calls for herbs, eliminating chopping and reducing prep time.
• Reduces Waste: If you often find yourself with leftover fresh herbs that spoil before you can use them, this method is a fantastic solution to prevent food waste.
• Versatile for Cooking: These cubes are perfect for quickly adding a burst of flavor to various dishes.

Practical Uses for Frozen Herb Oil Cubes

The versatility of frozen herb-infused olive oil cubes makes them a fantastic kitchen staple. Here are just a few ways you can incorporate them into your cooking:

• Sautéing Vegetables: Drop a cube into a hot pan before adding vegetables for an instant flavor base.
• Soups, Stews, and Sauces: Add a cube directly to simmering soups, stews, or pasta sauces to deepen their flavor profile.
• Marinating Meats: Thaw a cube and use it as part of a quick marinade for chicken, fish, or beef.
• Roasting: Melt a cube and drizzle over roasted vegetables or potatoes before baking.
• Bread Dipping: Gently warm a cube and serve with crusty bread for a flavorful appetizer.

Tips for Success

To get the best results when freezing herbs in olive oil, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Herbs: The fresher the herbs, the better the flavor and aroma they will retain when frozen.
• Don't Overfill: Leave a little space at the top of each mold to allow for expansion as the oil freezes.
• Label Clearly: Always label your freezer bags or containers with the type of herb and the date of freezing.
• Consider Herb-Oil Pairings: While olive oil is a great all-rounder, you can experiment with other oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil, depending on the desired flavor and smoke point.

Quick Reference: Freezing Herbs in Oil