master-cooks | Fresh Sage Lasts Longer With The Help Of One Pantry Staple

Fresh sage is a beloved herb known for its aromatic leaves and ability to enhance a variety of dishes, from savory stuffing to roasted vegetables. However, like many fresh herbs, sage has a relatively short shelf life. Luckily, extending its freshness is possible with the help of a common pantry staple: olive oil. To keep sage fresh for longer, start by gently washing and thoroughly drying the leaves. Once the leaves are clean and dry, place them in a small, airtight container. Pour enough olive oil over the sage to fully submerge the leaves. The oil acts as a natural preservative, creating an oxygen-free environment that helps prevent the sage from wilting or losing its flavor. Additionally, the olive oil absorbs the essence of the sage, making it a flavorful ingredient on its own for future culinary uses. Store the container in the refrigerator, where the sage can last for weeks instead of just days. This simple method not only preserves the herb but also allows you to infuse olive oil with sage's distinctive flavor, offering a dual benefit that enhances cooking and reduces waste by ensuring you always have fresh-tasting sage on hand.

How to create gourmet-tasting sage-infused olive oil

If you want to create a richly sage-infused olive oil with a bit more purpose, the method is straightforward. Start by washing and thoroughly drying your sage leaves, then gently rub them between your fingers to release their essential oils. Place the leaves in an airtight container and cover them with high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. For an infused oil meant for special dishes and occasions, it's advisable to choose a premium olive oil. Store the jar in a cool, dark pantry for at least a week; the longer it sits, the more intense the flavor will become, but avoid letting it steep for more than a couple of weeks. This way, you'll have perfectly preserved sage leaves to use individually in your cooking, along with a flavorful olive oil that adds depth to your recipes.

If you have a recipe that calls for sage-infused oil but are pressed for time, you can expedite the process by gently sautéing sage leaves in olive oil over low heat. This technique will impart a strong sage flavor to your dish, although it won't provide the nuanced depth that comes from a longer infusion.

Delicious ways to use your preserved sage and infused oil

Sage leaves infused with olive oil can enhance your culinary creations. When finely chopped, EVOO-infused sage makes a delightful addition to compound butter. This sage butter is ideal for blending into mashed potatoes, dolloping on sweet potato dishes, or spreading on dinner rolls.

Additionally, sage leaves coated in oil can be easily crisped in a frying pan. Once cooled, the crunchy, frizzled sage leaves make a flavorful topping for pasta. Alternatively, chop them up and mix them into toasted breadcrumbs for a seasonal twist that complements your favorite baked macaroni and cheese or a kale Caesar salad.

Sage-infused olive oil is also delicious on its own, making it a great choice for dipping bread as an antipasto. You can use it in any recipe that calls for regular olive oil: in salad dressings, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or as a sautéing oil for various ingredients.

Fresh Sage Lasts Longer With The Help Of One Pantry Staple

How to create gourmet-tasting sage-infused olive oil

Delicious ways to use your preserved sage and infused oil

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