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

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

Introduction
In the world of gourmet ingredients, few products offer the elegance and versatility of Lavender Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil by Sonoma Farm. This 44ml sample-sized treasure marries the robust, fruity notes of premium extra virgin olive oil with the delicate floral aroma of hand-harvested lavender. Whether drizzled over a summer salad, used to finish a decadent dessert, or incorporated into marinades, this oil transforms everyday dishes into extraordinary experiences.

Crafted for chefs and home cooks alike, Sonoma Farm’s small-batch infusion process ensures every drop captures the essence of lavender’s tranquil beauty and olive oil’s rich heritage. In this guide, we’ll explore the oil’s flavor profile, culinary uses, health benefits, and pairing ideas, alongside exclusive recipes from Sonoma Farm’s recipe collection. Stay connected with Sonoma Farm’s latest inspirations via Instagram and Facebook.

By the end, you’ll understand why this lavender-infused oil deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen—and how it bridges the gap between ancient traditions and modern culinary innovation.

What is Lavender Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Sonoma Farm’s creation blends two iconic ingredients:

• Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Sourced from first-press olives grown in sun-drenched groves of California, this oil boasts a low acidity level (<0.3%) and a vibrant peppery finish, indicative of its high polyphenol content.
• Culinary-Grade Lavender: Handpicked at peak bloom from organic farms in Provence, France, the lavender buds are gently steeped in the oil using a time-honored cold infusion method. This technique preserves the herb’s delicate floral notes without introducing bitterness.

The result is a harmonious balance of earthy olive oil and fragrant lavender—perfect for elevating both sweet and savory dishes. Unlike synthetic flavorings, this infusion captures lavender’s true essence, making it a favorite among Michelin-starred chefs and artisanal bakers.

Why Choose Sonoma Farm’s Lavender Infused Olive Oil?
Sonoma Farm prioritizes quality, sustainability, and ethical practices:

• All-Natural Ingredients: Free from additives, GMOs, and gluten. The oil is certified non-GMO Project Verified and Kosher.
• Small-Batch Infusion: Each batch is crafted in limited quantities to ensure consistent flavor and aroma. The infusion process is closely monitored to achieve the perfect balance between olive oil and lavender.
• Ethically Sourced: Olives are harvested from family-owned orchards committed to regenerative farming, while lavender is sourced from Fair Trade-certified cooperatives.
• Dietary-Friendly: Produced in a facility free from peanuts, tree nuts, and seafood, making it safe for most allergy sufferers.
• Award-Winning: Recognized by the Global Olive Oil Awards for its innovative flavor profile and superior quality.

This commitment to excellence makes their oil a standout in the gourmet market, offering a product that’s as ethical as it is delicious.

Culinary Uses of Lavender Infused Olive Oil

1. Salads & Dressings
   • Spring Mix Salad: Toss arugula, goat cheese, and strawberries with a drizzle of lavender oil and a splash of citrus. Add toasted almonds for crunch.
   • Honey-Lavender Vinaigrette: Whisk the oil with honey, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard for a floral twist. Perfect over grilled peach and burrata salads.
   • Mediterranean Grain Bowls: Drizzle over quinoa or farro bowls with roasted veggies, feta, and olives.
2. Explore more dressings in Sonoma Farm’s recipe hub.
3. Marinades & Proteins
   • Lavender-Herb Chicken: Marinate poultry in the oil with rosemary, garlic, and lemon zest before grilling. The lavender tenderizes meat while adding aromatic depth.
   • Seafood Finish: Drizzle over seared scallops or grilled salmon for an aromatic flourish. Pair with a squeeze of lemon to brighten the floral notes.
   • Vegetarian Delights: Brush onto halloumi or tofu before pan-searing for a gourmet vegetarian entrée.
4. Baking & Desserts
   • Lavender Shortbread: Substitute butter with chilled lavender oil for a fragrant, crumbly texture. Dust with edible lavender buds for visual appeal.
   • Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance chocolate cakes or berries with a hint of lavender. Combine melted dark chocolate with a teaspoon of oil for a luxurious finish.
   • Lavender-Infused Crème Brûlée: Infuse the cream with lavender oil before baking for a subtle floral custard.
5. Cocktails & Beverages
   • Lavender Lemonade: Add a teaspoon to homemade lemonade for a sophisticated twist. Garnish with fresh lavender sprigs.
   • Herbal Tea Enhancement: Stir into chamomile or Earl Grey tea for a calming evening ritual.
   • Craft Cocktails: Shake with gin, elderflower liqueur, and lime for a floral twist on a classic gimlet.

Health Benefits of Lavender Infused Olive Oil
Beyond its flavor, this oil offers wellness perks rooted in science:

• Antioxidant-Rich: Olive oil’s polyphenols combat inflammation, while lavender contains linalool, a compound shown to reduce stress and anxiety in clinical studies.
• Heart Health: Monounsaturated fats in EVOO support healthy cholesterol levels and cardiovascular function. The American Heart Association recommends EVOO as a staple for heart-healthy diets.
• Digestive Aid: Lavender’s calming properties may soothe stomach discomfort and bloating, while olive oil promotes gut health by stimulating bile production.
• Skin & Hair Benefits: When used topically, the oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can soothe eczema or dry skin. Mix with sugar for a gentle lavender-olive oil scrub.

Recipes Featuring Lavender Infused Olive Oil

1. Lavender-Roasted Vegetables
   Ingredients:
   • 2 cups root vegetables (carrots, beets, parsnips)
   • 2 tbsp Lavender Olive Oil
   • Salt, pepper, and thyme
2. Instructions:
   Toss vegetables with oil and seasonings. Roast at 400°F for 30 minutes, or until caramelized.
3. Lavender-Infused Honey Butter
   Ingredients:
   • 1/2 cup softened butter
   • 1 tbsp lavender oil
   • 2 tbsp honey
4. Instructions:
   Whip ingredients together and serve with warm bread or scones.
5. Lavender-White Wine Pasta
   Ingredients:
   • 8 oz linguine
   • 3 tbsp lavender oil
   • 1/2 cup dry white wine
   • Zest of 1 lemon
   • Parmesan cheese
6. Instructions:
   Cook pasta al dente. Sauté garlic in lavender oil, deglaze with wine, then toss with pasta and lemon zest. Top with Parmesan.
   Find more creations at Sonoma Farm’s recipes.

Storage Tips
Preserve the oil’s integrity by storing it in a cool, dark place, ideally between 57–70°F. Avoid heat or sunlight, which can accelerate oxidation and degrade flavor. Use within 6–12 months for optimal freshness. For long-term storage, refrigerate the oil—it may solidify slightly, but this won’t affect quality.

Where to Buy
Purchase the 44ml sample or full-size bottle directly from Sonoma Farm’s website. The sample size is perfect for experimenting, while the 500ml bottle suits avid cooks. Gift sets featuring lavender oil paired with Sonoma Farm’s Apple White Balsamic Vinegar are also available for holiday gifting.

Connect with Sonoma Farm
Join their thriving community for recipes, contests, and behind-the-scenes farm updates:

• Instagram: Participate in #LavenderCooking challenges.
• Facebook: Watch live demos of chefs using lavender oil in seasonal dishes.

Conclusion
Lavender Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a gateway to culinary creativity. Its versatility, health benefits, and artisanal quality make it a must-have. Dive into Sonoma Farm’s recipe collection and share your creations using #SonomaFarm. Whether you’re crafting a five-course meal or enhancing a weekday dinner, this oil invites you to slow down and savor the art of cooking.

Detailed History of Infused Oils
Infused oils trace back to ancient Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures, where herbs and flowers were steeped in olive oil for medicinal and culinary use. The Egyptians prized lavender-infused oils for embalming and skincare, while Roman chefs used herb-infused oils to flavor breads and meats. In medieval Europe, monasteries became hubs for infusing oils with lavender, rosemary, and thyme, blending culinary and therapeutic practices.

Lavender’s rise in Provence, France, during the 16th century cemented its role in gastronomy. Farmers discovered that infusing olive oil with dried lavender buds enhanced both preservation and flavor. Today, Sonoma Farm honors this legacy by combining Old World techniques with California’s agricultural innovation.

Production Process
Sonoma Farm’s method is a meticulous, multi-step journey:

1. Harvesting: Olives are cold-pressed within hours of picking to retain freshness; lavender is hand-harvested at dawn when essential oils peak.
2. Infusion: Buds are gently heated in EVOO at 120°F for 48 hours—a method that extracts flavor without bitterness.
3. Filtration: The oil is passed through organic cotton filters to remove particulates while preserving aroma.
4. Bottling: Packaged in UV-protected glass to prevent light damage, with recyclable labels printed with soy-based ink.

This process ensures a product that’s as pure as it is flavorful.

Health Benefits In-Depth

• Stress Reduction: Lavender’s linalool interacts with brain neurotransmitters like GABA, promoting relaxation. A 2020 study in Journal of Alternative Medicine found that inhaling lavender reduced anxiety by 45% in participants.
• Skin Health: Applied topically, the oil’s antioxidants combat free radicals linked to aging. Mix with shea butter for a soothing nighttime balm.
• Anti-Inflammatory: EVOO’s oleocanthal mirrors ibuprofen’s effects, easing joint pain when consumed regularly.
• Sleep Aid: Add a few drops to a diffuser or pillowcase to improve sleep quality naturally.

More Recipes & Tips

• Lavender Ice Cream: Swirl the oil into vanilla ice cream before freezing. Top with fresh berries.
• Herb-Infused Bread: Brush focaccia with lavender oil post-baking for a fragrant crust.
• Breakfast Upgrade: Drizzle over avocado toast or oatmeal with honey and nuts.

Customer Testimonials
“This oil turned my roasted veggies into a gourmet side dish! My guests couldn’t stop asking for the recipe.” – Clara M.
“I add it to my nighttime tea—it’s so relaxing and adds a gourmet touch.” – David L.
“As a pastry chef, I use it in macarons and custards. It’s a game-changer!” – Sofia R.

Pairing Suggestions

• Cheeses: Pair with brie, goat cheese, or aged manchego.
• Fruits: Complement figs, peaches, blackberries, or citrus.
• Proteins: Elevate lamb chops, duck confit, or miso-glazed tofu.
• Wines: Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a floral Gewürztraminer.

Seasonal Uses

• Spring: Drizzle over asparagus risotto or pea soup.
• Summer: Enhance grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or watermelon-feta skewers.
• Fall: Mix into pumpkin risotto or butternut squash soup.
• Winter: Add to citrus salads, roasted chestnuts, or spiced hot cocoa.

Comparison with Other Infused Oils
Unlike chili or garlic-infused oils, lavender oil offers subtle floral notes ideal for desserts and delicate dishes. While rosemary oil excels in savory meats, and lemon oil brightens seafood, lavender’s versatility bridges sweet and savory realms. For example, it pairs beautifully with dark chocolate in a way rosemary cannot.

FAQs
Q: Can I cook with lavender oil at high heat?
A: Best used for low-heat cooking or finishing to preserve flavor. High heat may diminish its delicate aroma.

Q: Is it safe for pets?
A: While culinary doses in food are generally safe, avoid direct ingestion of large amounts, as lavender can be toxic to pets.

Q: Can I use it in DIY skincare?
A: Yes! Mix with sugar for a scrub or with aloe vera gel as a moisturizer. Always patch-test first.

Sustainability at Sonoma Farm
Sonoma Farm’s eco-practices include:

• Solar-Powered Facilities: 80% of energy comes from renewable sources.
• Zero-Waste Packaging: Bottles are 100% recyclable; shipping materials are biodegradable.
• Bee-Friendly Farming: Partnering with local beekeepers to support lavender pollination.

Final Thoughts
With its enchanting aroma and culinary flexibility, Lavender Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil is more than an ingredient—it’s an experience. Explore, experiment, and let Sonoma Farm inspire your next meal. From drizzling over artisanal cheeses to crafting lavender-infused cocktails, this oil invites you to reimagine the boundaries of flavor.

Visit Sonoma Farm today to explore their collection, and follow them on Instagram and Facebook for daily inspiration. Your culinary journey awaits!