Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Cilantro | Sample 44ml / 1.5oz

The Ultimate Guide to Cilantro Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A Culinary Masterpiece by Sonoma Farm

Introduction
Elevate your dishes with the vibrant, herbaceous essence of Cilantro Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil by Sonoma Farm. This 44ml sample bottle packs a punch, blending the peppery richness of premium extra virgin olive oil with the bright, citrusy notes of fresh cilantro. Perfect for chefs and home cooks alike, this oil transforms everyday meals into gourmet experiences. From Mexican street corn to Thai curries, its versatility bridges global cuisines, making it a pantry essential for adventurous food lovers.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the art of crafting this infused oil, its culinary versatility, health benefits, and creative recipes. Explore Sonoma Farm’s recipe collection and connect via Instagram and Facebook for inspiration. By the end, you’ll see why this oil deserves a prime spot in your kitchen—and how it can inspire everything from weeknight dinners to celebratory feasts.

What is Cilantro Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Sonoma Farm’s creation marries two star ingredients:

• Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Cold-pressed within hours of harvest from handpicked Arbequina olives, known for their buttery texture and fruity undertones. The olives are sourced from sustainable orchards in California, ensuring low acidity (under 0.3%) and a robust flavor profile.
• Fresh Cilantro Leaves: Sustainably grown and hand-harvested at peak freshness, their citrusy, slightly peppery profile infuses the oil through a cold-infusion process that preserves delicate aromatics.

The result? A versatile oil that’s grassy, aromatic, and perfect for drizzling, marinating, or finishing dishes. Unlike heat-infused oils, Sonoma Farm’s cold method ensures the cilantro’s bright, fresh flavor isn’t muted by oxidation or high temperatures.

Why Choose Sonoma Farm’s Cilantro Infused EVOO?

• All-Natural Integrity: Free from additives, GMOs, or preservatives. Each batch is tested for purity and flavor consistency.
• Dietary-Friendly: Gluten-free, vegan, and produced in a facility free from nuts, seafood, and soy.
• Small-Batch Craftsmanship: Limited production runs ensure freshness and attention to detail.
• Ethical Commitment: Union-made in the USA, supporting fair wages and local communities.
• Award-Winning Quality: Recognized by the Global Olive Oil Awards for its balanced flavor and innovation.

Culinary Uses of Cilantro Infused EVOO

1. Salads & Dressings
   • Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette: Whisk 3 tbsp oil, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp honey, salt, and pepper. Toss with mixed greens, avocado, black beans, and grilled shrimp for a Tex-Mex twist.
   • Asian Slaw: Drizzle over shredded cabbage, carrots, and radishes with toasted sesame seeds and a sprinkle of Tajín.
   • Mediterranean Grain Bowl: Drizzle over farro, roasted chickpeas, cucumber, and feta for a zesty finish.
2. Marinades & Sauces
   • Grilled Chicken Marinade: Combine 1/4 cup oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp soy sauce, lime zest, and a pinch of cumin. Marinate chicken for 2+ hours before grilling.
   • Cilantro Pesto: Blend oil, cilantro, garlic, toasted pepitas, and Cotija cheese for a Mexican-inspired pesto. Toss with roasted veggies or spread on grilled flatbread.
   • Dipping Sauce: Mix oil with Greek yogurt, minced jalapeño, and lime juice for a vibrant crudité dip.
3. Vegetables & Sides
   • Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Toss cubed potatoes in oil, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Roast at 400°F until caramelized.
   • Grilled Corn: Brush husked corn with oil, grill until charred, then sprinkle with chili powder and lime juice.
   • Sautéed Greens: Sauté kale or spinach in oil with garlic and red pepper flakes for a 5-minute side.
4. Global Cuisines
   • Taco Topping: Drizzle over fish tacos with mango salsa or carnitas with pickled onions.
   • Stir-Fry Finish: Add a splash to pad Thai or Vietnamese rice noodles for herbal freshness.
   • Middle Eastern Touch: Use in tabbouleh or as a base for herbaceous shawarma marinades.

For more ideas, visit Sonoma Farm’s recipe hub.

Health Benefits

• Heart Health: EVOO’s monounsaturated fats (73% of its composition) reduce LDL cholesterol and inflammation.
• Antioxidant-Rich: Cilantro contains quercetin and kaempferol, flavonoids linked to reduced oxidative stress.
• Detox Support: Cilantro’s compounds bind to heavy metals, aiding their elimination.
• Digestive Aid: EVOO stimulates bile production, improving fat digestion and nutrient absorption.

Featured Recipes

1. Cilantro-Lime Shrimp Skewers
   Ingredients:
   1. 1 lb shrimp, peeled
   2. 3 tbsp Cilantro EVOO
   3. Zest and juice of 1 lime
   4. 1 tsp chili powder
   5. 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
2. Instructions:
   1. Marinate shrimp in oil, lime, and spices for 30 minutes.
   2. Skewer and grill 2–3 minutes per side.
   3. Serve with avocado crema (blend avocado, Greek yogurt, and a drizzle of oil).
3. Herbed Quinoa Salad
   Ingredients:
   1. 1 cup cooked quinoa
   2. 2 tbsp Cilantro EVOO
   3. 1/4 cup diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion
   4. 1/3 cup crumbled feta
   5. Handful of chopped mint
4. Instructions:
   1. Toss all ingredients.
   2. Chill for 1 hour before serving.
5. Cilantro-Infused Hummus
   Ingredients:
   1. 1 can chickpeas, drained
   2. 3 tbsp Cilantro EVOO
   3. 2 tbsp tahini
   4. Juice of 1 lemon
   5. 1 garlic clove
6. Instructions:
   1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.
   2. Garnish with paprika and a drizzle of oil.

Discover more at Sonoma Farm Recipes.

Storage Tips

• Ideal Conditions: Store in a cool, dark place (like a pantry) away from heat sources.
• Shelf Life: Use within 6–8 months for peak flavor. Refrigeration isn’t necessary but can extend freshness.
• Avoid Contamination: Use clean utensils to prevent introducing moisture or bacteria.

Where to Buy
Available at Sonoma Farm’s online store. Pair it with their Meyer Lemon Olive Oil or Black Truffle Balsamic for a gourmet bundle.

Connect with Sonoma Farm
Join a community of food enthusiasts! Follow for recipes, contests, and behind-the-scenes content:

• Instagram: Daily inspiration and chef collaborations.
• Facebook: Live cooking demos and seasonal promotions.

History of Infused Olive Oils
Infused oils date back to ancient Mediterranean cultures, where herbs like rosemary and thyme were steeped in olive oil for preservation and flavor. The Phoenicians traded herb-infused oils across the Mediterranean, while Roman chefs used them to elevate banquets. Sonoma Farm modernizes this tradition with cold-infusion technology, capturing cilantro’s essence without compromising its volatile compounds.

Production Process: From Farm to Bottle

1. Olive Harvesting: Arbequina olives are handpicked in October at peak ripeness.
2. Cold Pressing: Olives are crushed within 6 hours of harvest, extracting oil at temperatures below 80°F to preserve nutrients.
3. Herb Selection: Cilantro is hand-sorted, washed, and lightly crushed to release essential oils.
4. Infusion: Fresh cilantro is steeped in EVOO for 72 hours in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats.
5. Filtration & Bottling: The oil is gently filtered to remove sediment, then bottled in UV-protected glass to prevent oxidation.

Deep Dive: Health Benefits

• Cilantro’s Detox Power: Contains linalool and terpenes, which bind to heavy metals like lead and mercury, aiding their excretion.
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: EVOO’s oleocanthal has ibuprofen-like properties, reducing joint inflammation.
• Skin Health: The oil’s vitamin E content promotes collagen production and protects against UV damage.

More Recipes

1. Cilantro-Lime Rice
   Stir 2 tbsp oil and lime zest into cooked jasmine rice. Top with toasted coconut and chopped cashews.
2. Roasted Cauliflower Steaks
   Brush cauliflower slices with oil, roast at 425°F for 25 minutes, and finish with tahini drizzle.
3. Cilantro Margarita
   Rim a glass with salt, mix 2 oz tequila, 1 oz lime juice, 1/2 oz agave, and 1 tsp oil. Shake and strain over ice.

Customer Testimonials
“This oil is transformative! My grilled veggies have never tasted better.” – Maria S.
“The cilantro flavor is fresh, not overpowering. Perfect for dressings.” – Liam P.
“I use it in my morning eggs—game-changer!” – Priya R.

Pairing Suggestions

• Proteins: Salmon, shrimp, chicken thighs, tofu.
• Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, roasted carrots.
• Cheeses: Queso fresco, goat cheese, halloumi.
• Beverages: Pair with Sauvignon Blanc, citrus-forward beers, or herbal teas.

Seasonal Uses

• Spring: Drizzle over asparagus risotto or pea soup.
• Summer: Brush on grilled kebabs or mix into potato salad.
• Fall: Enhance roasted squash soups or apple-cabbage slaws.
• Winter: Add depth to holiday appetizers like stuffed mushrooms or bruschetta.

Comparison with Other Oils

• Plain EVOO: Lacks the herbal complexity and citrus notes.
• Store-Bought Infused Oils: Often use dried herbs or artificial flavors; Sonoma Farm’s cold infusion locks in freshness.
• DIY Infused Oils: Risk of bacterial growth if improperly stored; Sonoma’s sterile process ensures safety.

FAQs

• Allergens? Free from nuts, gluten, seafood.
• Shelf Life? Best within 8 months; the “best by” date is on the bottle.
• Cooking Heat? Safe up to 375°F, but add post-cooking for maximum flavor.
• Gift Ideas? Pair with a bamboo cruet or recipe cards for a thoughtful present.

Sustainability at Sonoma Farm

• Eco Packaging: Bottles are 100% recyclable glass; shipping materials use recycled cardboard.
• Local Sourcing: Olives and herbs are sourced within 200 miles to reduce carbon footprint.
• Community Initiatives: Partners with farms practicing regenerative agriculture to rebuild soil health.

Creative Uses Beyond Cooking

• Cocktails: Add a few drops to gin-based drinks or bloody marys.
• Baking: Brush over focaccia before baking for an herbal crust.
• Aromatherapy: Mix with essential oils for a refreshing diffuser blend.

Conclusion
Cilantro Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil by Sonoma Farm is a passport to global flavors. From marinades to desserts, its versatility and quality shine. Explore their recipes and join their community on Instagram and Facebook. Elevate your kitchen today—one drizzle at a time.