Budget Gift Idea: Infused Olive Oil

I’m on a major budget this Christmas, but that’s no excuse to skimp on presents. Homemade infused olive oil makes a great holiday gift for neighbors, extended family, coworkers, party hosts and more. It’s easy, too:

You’ll need:

A bottle with a cork or rubber stopper (you can find them at craft stores, thrift stores or online wholesale outlets)

Extra virgin olive oil

Your choice of herbs and other ingredients* (I recommend rosemary, thyme, basil, oregano and lemon rinds. Mix and match however you like.)

Baguettes

How to make it:

Gently tear or bruise your herbs so the flavors release.

Put the herbs at the bottom of the bottle—a little goes a long way.

Pour warmed olive oil on top.

Cork the bottle, and let it infuse in a cool place for two weeks or so.

Tie a ribbon around the bottle and give with a baguette.

 *I’d stay away from garlic, unless you want to give the gift of botulism for the holidays.

 Enjoy! Check back here for more budget gift ideas.