Elevate Your Lunch Game: 10 Unconventional Ways to Use Infused Olive Oils
As the clock strikes noon, the daily lunch struggle is real. Same old sandwiches, salads, and leftovers can get monotonous. But, what if you could add a pinch of excitement to your midday meal? Infused olive oils are the game-changers you've been missing!
These flavorful oils can transform your lunch from bland to grand. In this article, we'll explore 10 unconventional ways to use infused olive oils, from savory to sweet, and share new ideas to take your lunch game to the next level.
- Lemon-Herb Quinoa Bowl: Cook quinoa according to package instructions, then toss with roasted vegetables, crumbled feta, and a drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil. Add a sprinkle of sumac for a pop of color and a burst of citrus flavor.
- Spicy Shrimp Wrap: Marinate shrimp in a mixture of chili-infused olive oil, lime juice, and cumin. Wrap them in a whole wheat tortilla with sliced avocado, mixed greens, and a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese.
- Roasted Veggie Panini: Layer roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant with mozzarella cheese and a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil on a crusty bread. Grill until crispy and serve with a side of mixed greens.
- Herby Chickpea Salad: Mix cooked chickpeas with chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and a squeeze of lime juice. Dress with basil-infused olive oil and a pinch of salt. Serve on top of whole grain crackers or as a sandwich filling.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions, then toss with sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fresh parsley, and a drizzle of sun-dried tomato-infused olive oil. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.
- Korean-Style BBQ Chicken Wrap: Marinate chicken breast in a mixture of gochujang-infused olive oil, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Wrap in a whole wheat tortilla with kimchi slaw, sliced cucumber, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
- Caprese Skewers: Alternate cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves on toothpicks. Drizzle with balsamic-infused olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Serve as an appetizer or snack.
- Middle Eastern Falafel Wrap: Stuff falafel patties in a whole wheat pita with shredded lettuce, diced cucumber, and a drizzle of sumac-infused olive oil. Top with tzatziki sauce and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.
- Autumn Harvest Salad: Toss mixed greens with roasted butternut squash, diced apples, and crumbled blue cheese. Drizzle with apple cider-infused olive oil and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Serve as a side dish or light lunch.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: Blend cooked tomatoes with chicken broth, heavy cream, and a drizzle of basil-infused olive oil. Serve with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Conclusion: Infused olive oils are the secret ingredient you need to elevate your lunch game. From savory to sweet, these flavorful oils can add a new dimension to your midday meal.
Experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your new favorite lunch recipe. Whether you're in the mood for something spicy, herby, or sweet, infused olive oils have got you covered. So, go ahead and get creative with your lunch – your taste buds will thank you!