Olive oil is a popular staple in many kitchens right across the world. In 2022, over 381,000 metric tons were consumed in the US. In 2021, it reached over $1.5 billion in sales due to its popularity and is said to reach over $1.87 billion by the end of 2026.
Not only is olive oil delicious, but it has many healthy fats along with antioxidants, and can promote great flavor when used in different dishes. If you’re new to olive oil, then the following will help show you the best ways you can use olive oil with food.
- Drizzle Over Salads
A simple yet delicious way to use olive oil is to drizzle it over salads as a salad dressing. Due to its fruity and peppery tones, it has the ability to enhance the overall flavor of fresh greens and vegetables. It also works best when you add a touch of salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or oregano. It also combines well with lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, or mustard for a classic vinaigrette.
- Sauté Vegetables
Olive oil is also great for sauteing vegetables, especially if you buy high quality oil from a California olive farm, direct from the source. Since it has a high smoke point when cooking, you can cook it with things like onion, garlic, kale, spinach or bell peppers to add a sweet smoky flavor. Remember though try not to overheat the olive oil too much as it can lose its nutritional value. Sauteing is great for any season making it a nice meal style for friends and family to enjoy.
- Baking
Olive oil is also great for baking. It can be a great substitute for vegetable oils and butter which are normally used in cakes, bread, brownies and muffins. While it may have a slightly denser texture, the overall taste tends to be lighter and it’s also healthier. When using olive oil in baked goods it can help make the food richer in texture, moist and can bring a nice flavor to the food.
- Roast Your Meats and Veggies
Olive oil is also good for roasting vegetables and meats. When you coat them in olive oil, especially potatoes, carrots, pumpkin or cauliflower, it can help to finish the food with a golden brown color. The best meats to use olive oil with are chicken, pork and lamb, especially when rosemary and garlic are added. You can also use it with red meats but it pairs best with the lighter meats.
- Marinates
Olive oil is the perfect base for marinades. It helps to tenderize proteins like chicken, pork, and beef while infusing them with flavor. Combine olive oil with herbs, garlic, lemon juice, or spices, and let your protein marinate for a few hours or overnight for best results.
You can try a Mediterranean-inspired marinade with olive oil, oregano, lemon, and garlic for a vibrant flavor. Mediterranean flavors are popular right across the world and olive oil is one of the key ingredients to help bring that beautiful flavor to the dish.
- Finish Dishes for a Flavor Boost
Olive oil works as an excellent finishing touch on soups, grilled fish, or pasta dishes. Drizzling a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the top just before serving adds richness and ties together the flavors of the dish. It’s particularly effective in Mediterranean dishes like bruschetta or caprese salad. You can use unfiltered extra virgin olive oil for an added boost of flavor and nutrients.
Endnote
From drizzling on salads to roasting meats and vegetables, olive oil can enhance the taste and nutrition of nearly any dish, whether breakfast or dinner. Whether you’re cooking, baking, or simply finishing a dish, this versatile oil brings richness and health benefits that are hard to beat. Embrace the full potential of olive oil in your kitchen and elevate your meals with a rich, savory, and great taste.
