Irresistible Charred Scallion and Herb Oil Recipe Perfect for Summer

The smoky aroma of charred scallions combined with the freshness of vibrant herbs creates a flavor-packed oil you’ll want to drizzle on everything. The first time I made this charred scallion and herb oil, I was hooked—its bold taste completely transformed my grilled veggies and crusty bread. Perfect for summer gatherings, this recipe is simple yet impressively versatile, adding a gourmet touch to the humblest of dishes. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or elevating your midweek dinner, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon.

I stumbled upon this idea while experimenting with leftover scallions from a farmer’s market haul. After grilling them to smoky perfection, I blended them into an herby oil that instantly became a star condiment. Honestly, the possibilities are endless. You’ll love how this recipe bridges the gap between fancy and fuss-free—ideal for summer when you want big flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is a breeze to make.
• Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples and fresh scallions.
• Perfect for Summer: Pairs beautifully with grilled dishes, garden salads, and even pasta.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone will rave about this unique and flavorful oil.
• Unbelievably Delicious: Smoky scallions combined with fragrant herbs create an irresistible balance of flavors.

What sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can spoon it over roasted vegetables, use it as a dip for crusty bread, or even toss it with pasta for a quick dinner. The smoky depth from the charred scallions is truly special, while the herb oil adds that fresh, summery vibe we all love.

It’s not just a condiment—it’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen wizard, creating something so simple yet so gourmet. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe will make you look (and feel) like a culinary pro.

Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to create bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Scallions: 6-8 scallions, trimmed (charred to bring out their smoky flavor).
• Fresh Herbs: 1 cup parsley, cilantro, or a mix (washed and dried).
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (adds a subtle kick).
• Olive Oil: 1/2 cup (use a high-quality extra virgin oil for the best flavor).
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (brightens and balances the flavors).
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for a touch of heat).
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (adjust to taste).
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground.

Everything in this recipe is easy to find, and you probably already have most of it in your kitchen. Feel free to swap out herbs based on what you have on hand—basil and dill work beautifully as alternatives.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make this recipe, and you can substitute tools if needed. Here’s what you’ll use:

• Grill or Grill Pan: For charring the scallions.
• Food Processor or Blender: To blend the ingredients into a smooth oil.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precision.
• Knife and Cutting Board: To prep the scallions and herbs.
• Small Bowl: For mixing and serving.

If you don’t have a grill pan, you can char the scallions directly on a gas stove or even roast them in the oven under the broiler. A mini food processor works just fine for blending if you’re working with smaller quantities.

Preparation Method

1. Char the Scallions: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the scallions and place them on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re slightly blackened and softened. Remove and set aside to cool.
2. Prep the Herbs: Wash and dry your fresh herbs thoroughly. Roughly chop them to make blending easier.
3. Blend Ingredients: In a food processor or blender, combine the charred scallions, herbs, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add an extra tablespoon of olive oil.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the herb oil and adjust seasoning as needed—add more salt or lemon juice if desired.
5. Serve: Transfer the oil to a small bowl and drizzle over your favorite dishes. Enjoy!

Tip: If your food processor struggles to blend the oil, pulse the ingredients in smaller batches or add extra olive oil for smoother blending. The charred scallions should have a smoky aroma, and the finished oil should be bright green with flecks of herbs.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your charred scallion and herb oil turns out perfectly:

• Char the scallions properly: Don’t rush the charring process—it’s what gives the oil its signature smoky flavor.
• Use fresh herbs: For maximum flavor, make sure your herbs are fresh and vibrant. Wilted herbs won’t give you the same punch.
• Adjust the oil consistency: If the oil feels too thick, add a bit more olive oil until it reaches your desired texture.
• Cool the scallions: Let the charred scallions cool slightly before blending to avoid steaming the other ingredients.
• Don’t over-blend: Pulse the mixture just enough to combine. Over-blending can turn the oil into a paste.

Once you get the hang of this recipe, you’ll find yourself improvising with different herbs and spices to suit your mood or menu.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is highly adaptable to suit your taste and dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Dietary Variations: Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile and heart-healthy fats.
• Seasonal Adaptations: Swap scallions for grilled red onions during fall or winter for a sweeter, deeper flavor.
• Flavor Twists: Add grated parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy kick.
• Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for extra heat.

Personally, I love mixing in a handful of mint leaves for a refreshing twist. Don’t be afraid to experiment—you might discover your own signature version!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve and store your charred scallion and herb oil:

• Serving: Serve it at room temperature. Drizzle it over grilled meats, roasted vegetables, crusty bread, or even scrambled eggs.
• Storage: Store the oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will deepen over time.
• Freezing: Freeze the oil in ice cube trays for longer storage—perfect for quick single-use portions.
• Reheating: No need to reheat—just let it come to room temperature before serving.

Pro tip: The oil tastes even better after it sits for a day, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional benefits:

• Calories: Approximately 120 per tablespoon (depending on oil used).
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Antioxidants: Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro are packed with antioxidants.
• Low Carb: Perfect for keto or low-carb diets.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for diverse dietary needs.

Conclusion

This irresistible charred scallion and herb oil is your go-to summer recipe. It’s smoky, vibrant, and ridiculously versatile—perfect for elevating any dish with minimal effort. I love how something so simple can have such a gourmet feel. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or using it to jazz up a weekday dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Give it a try and make it your own! I’d love to hear how you use this oil—leave a comment below or share your favorite twist. Let’s keep the inspiration flowing!

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Reduce the quantity to about 1/3 of what’s listed for fresh.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The oil tastes even better after sitting for a day, so feel free to prepare it in advance.

What dishes pair well with this oil?

This oil is perfect for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or even as a dip for bread.

Can I use a regular blender instead of a food processor?

Yes, a blender works just as well. You might need to scrape the sides a few times to ensure everything blends smoothly.

How long does this oil keep?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will keep for up to 5 days.

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