Meyer Lemon Infused Olive Oil

Name: Meyer Lemon Infused Olive Oil
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 1 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2-3 Meyer lemons, zested and sliced

Highlighted under: Fresh & Light

Elevate your culinary creations with this vibrant and fragrant Meyer Lemon Infused Olive Oil. Perfect for drizzling over salads, grilled vegetables, or as a dip for fresh bread.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-20T10:49:49.138Z

This delightful Meyer Lemon Infused Olive Oil brings a burst of citrus flavor to your dishes. Meyer lemons are a cross between a regular lemon and a mandarin orange, offering a sweeter and less acidic taste. By infusing high-quality olive oil with these aromatic fruits, you create a versatile ingredient that can enhance a wide variety of recipes.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavor that elevates any dish
Simple ingredients and easy preparation
Versatile use in dressings, marinades, and dips

      

The Magic of Meyer Lemons

Meyer lemons are a delightful cross between a traditional lemon and a sweet orange, boasting a unique flavor profile that is both tart and sweet. This fragrant fruit adds a vibrant touch to your dishes, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. Their thin skin and juicy flesh make them perfect for infusing oils, as they release their essential oils and natural sweetness easily.

When you infuse olive oil with Meyer lemons, you capture the essence of these citrus wonders, resulting in a product that enhances your culinary creations. The infusion process allows for a harmonious blend of the oil's richness and the lemons' bright, zesty notes, creating a flavor that can elevate anything from simple salads to decadent seafood dishes.

Culinary Uses for Infused Olive Oil

Meyer Lemon Infused Olive Oil is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. Drizzle it over fresh salads to add a bright burst of flavor, or use it as a base for homemade salad dressings. The oil also pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a touch of sophistication to your meals.

Another fantastic use for this infused oil is as a dipping sauce for fresh bread. Simply pour it into a shallow dish and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors. You can also use it to marinate chicken or fish, providing a tangy and aromatic twist to your favorite proteins. The possibilities are endless with this vibrant oil in your kitchen!

Storage Tips for Your Infusion

Once you've created your Meyer Lemon Infused Olive Oil, proper storage is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor. Store the infused oil in a clean, dry glass bottle or jar, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A cool, dark pantry or cupboard is ideal for preserving the vibrant taste of the infusion.

If you notice any cloudiness or sediment in the oil over time, this is normal and can happen due to the lemon zest. However, for best quality, try to use the infused oil within a month. If you find yourself with more oil than you can use, consider giving it as a thoughtful gift to friends and family who appreciate homemade culinary delights.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Meyer Lemon Infused Olive Oil

1 cup extra virgin olive oil
2-3 Meyer lemons, zested and sliced

Note: Ensure that the lemons are thoroughly washed before using.

Instructions

Prepare the Lemons

Wash the Meyer lemons thoroughly. Use a zester to remove the zest from the lemons, being careful to avoid the white pith, which can be bitter. Slice the lemons into thin rounds.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium-sized glass jar or bottle, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon slices. Make sure the lemons are fully submerged in the oil.

Infuse the Oil

Seal the jar tightly and let it sit at room temperature for at least 5 days to allow the flavors to meld. Shake the jar gently every day to help the infusion process.

Strain and Store

After 5 days, strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bottle, discarding the solids. Store the infused oil in a cool, dark place for up to 1 month.

Enjoy your homemade Meyer Lemon Infused Olive Oil in various dishes!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do with leftover lemon slices after straining the oil? Don't throw them away! You can use the leftover lemon slices to flavor water or cocktails, or even as a garnish for dishes. They still carry a pleasant lemony aroma and can add a refreshing touch to various beverages.

Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons? While you can use regular lemons, the flavor profile will be different. Meyer lemons are sweeter and less acidic, providing a more balanced and aromatic infusion. If you can find them, they are definitely worth using for this recipe.

Pairing Suggestions

Meyer Lemon Infused Olive Oil pairs exceptionally well with Mediterranean dishes. Drizzle it over a classic Greek salad, or use it to dress a simple pasta dish with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. The oil's citrus notes will brighten the entire meal and add a layer of complexity to the flavors.

For a delightful appetizer, pair the infused oil with artisan bread and a selection of cheeses. The zesty lemon flavor will enhance creamy cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta, making for a perfect pairing that will impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long can I store the infused olive oil?

You can store the infused olive oil for up to 1 month if kept in a cool, dark place.

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, but the flavor will be more acidic and less sweet. Meyer lemons are recommended for a milder taste.

→ How can I use this infused olive oil?

It can be used in salad dressings, marinades, or simply as a dip for bread.

→ Is it safe to eat the lemon slices after infusion?

While the lemon slices can be consumed, they may be quite bitter. It's usually best to discard them after straining.