Garlic Infused Olive Oil Recipe - Homebody Eats
Garlic Infused Olive Oil Recipe - Homebody Eats is a easy Italian recipe that serves 1. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Homebody Eats on YouTube.
Prep: 13 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 48 hrs 23 min
Cost: $12.89 total, $12.89 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Garlic Cloves (peeled, roughly chopped after pulsing)
- 16.9 ounces Extra Virgin Olive Oil (high‑quality, cold‑pressed)
- 1 piece Coffee Filter (paper filter for breathable lid)
- 1 piece Rubber Band (to secure coffee filter)
Instructions
Pulse Garlic
Place 1 cup of peeled garlic cloves into the food processor and pulse until the pieces are roughly chopped, not pureed.
Time: PT5M
Add Garlic and Oil to Jar
Transfer the chopped garlic into a clean 16‑ounce mason jar and pour in 16.9 oz of extra virgin olive oil, making sure the garlic is completely submerged.
Time: PT2M
Seal with Breathable Lid
Place a coffee filter over the jar opening and secure it with a rubber band, creating a breathable seal that keeps dust out while allowing gases to escape.
Time: PT1M
Infuse the Oil
Store the jar in a dark, cool pantry or cupboard for 48 hours. Gently shake the jar once halfway through to redistribute the garlic.
Time: PT48H
Strain and Store
After 48 hours, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bottle, discarding the garlic solids. Seal the bottle and label with the date.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 0 g
- Carbohydrates
- 0 g
- Fat
- 14 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Paleo-Friendly
Allergens: Garlic
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Garlic Cloves: Roasted garlic cloves, Garlic powder (use 1 tsp per cup of oil, but flavor differs)
- Instead of Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Cold‑pressed avocado oil (different flavor), Light olive oil (less robust flavor)
- Instead of Coffee Filter: Cheesecloth, Clean kitchen towel
- Instead of Rubber Band: Twist tie, String
Equipment Needed
- Food Processor
- Mason Jar (16‑ounce)
- Fine Mesh Strainer
- Measuring Cup
- Spoon or Small Ladle
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Ensure garlic is fully submerged in oil to prevent spoilage.
- Use a breathable lid (coffee filter) to avoid pressure buildup.
- Store the jar in a dark, cool place for proper infusion.
- Strain the oil thoroughly before bottling.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use fresh, firm garlic cloves for the brightest flavor.
- A dark glass mason jar protects the oil from light degradation.
- Shake the jar gently once during the 48‑hour infusion to help distribute flavor.
Troubleshooting
Garlic pieces float on top of the oil.
Press the garlic down with a spoon or add a little more oil until fully submerged.
Oil develops an off‑smell or turns cloudy.
Discard the batch; ensure you used fresh oil, kept the jar in a cool dark place, and did not seal it airtight.
Storage
Refrigerator: Up to 2 weeks in a sealed dark bottle.
Freezer: Not recommended; oil may become cloudy.
Room temperature: Store in a cool, dark pantry for up to 1 month.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Infuse for up to 1 week for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Batch‑make the oil and store in multiple small bottles for easy portioning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of garlic infused olive oil in Italian cuisine?
Garlic‑infused olive oil, or "olio all'aglio," has long been a staple in Southern Italy, where simple, high‑quality ingredients are prized. It is traditionally used to flavor bruschetta, pasta, and grilled seafood, embodying the Italian philosophy of letting a few ingredients shine.
What regional variations of garlic infused olive oil exist within Italy?
In Calabria, the oil may include red pepper flakes for heat, while in Tuscany it is often combined with fresh rosemary. Some coastal regions add lemon zest for a bright citrus note, reflecting local produce.
How is garlic infused olive oil traditionally served in Italian households?
It is typically drizzled over fresh bread, tossed with spaghetti aglio e olio, or used to finish grilled vegetables. Italians also splash a few drops onto soups just before serving for an aromatic lift.
During which Italian celebrations or meals is garlic infused olive oil commonly used?
Garlic‑infused oil appears at everyday family meals and festive gatherings alike, especially during summer barbecues, holiday antipasto spreads, and Sunday pasta lunches where simplicity is celebrated.
What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional Italian garlic infused olive oil versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic recipes call for fresh garlic cloves and high‑quality extra virgin olive oil. Substitutes like roasted garlic or garlic powder can be used, but they alter the flavor profile and are considered modern adaptations rather than traditional.
What other Italian dishes pair well with this garlic infused olive oil?
It pairs beautifully with spaghetti aglio e olio, caprese salad, grilled zucchini, roasted potatoes, and as a finishing drizzle for minestrone soup.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making garlic infused olive oil?
Common errors include sealing the jar airtight (which can cause pressure buildup), not fully submerging the garlic (risking spoilage), and using low‑quality oil that turns rancid quickly. Follow the breathable‑lid method and keep the oil in a dark, cool place.
Why does this recipe use a coffee filter and rubber band instead of a regular lid?
The coffee filter creates a breathable seal that lets gases escape while keeping dust out, preventing pressure buildup that could crack the jar. A regular airtight lid would trap gases and increase the risk of spoilage.
Can I make garlic infused olive oil ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a week in advance. Store the strained oil in a dark glass bottle in a cool pantry for up to one month, or refrigerate for up to two weeks for extended freshness.
What does the YouTube channel Homebody Eats specialize in?
Homebody Eats focuses on approachable, everyday home cooking with an emphasis on simple techniques, pantry‑friendly recipes, and comfort food that fits a busy lifestyle.
How does the YouTube channel Homebody Eats' approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?
Homebody Eats presents Italian-inspired dishes using minimal, readily available ingredients and short prep times, whereas many traditional Italian channels emphasize elaborate techniques and specialty ingredients. The channel aims for practicality without sacrificing authentic flavor.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
