5 simple and delicious Ways to Use Olive Oil in Your Recipes

Olive oil is a staple in many kitchens around the world, cherished for its rich flavour and numerous health benefits. Known for its monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil is a healthier option than many other cooking oils and a versatile ingredient that can enhance a variety of dishes.

Here are five delicious ways to incorporate olive oil into your recipes.

One of the most common and delightful ways to use olive oil is in salad dressings. Its rich, fruity and bold flavour pairs well with a wide range of ingredients.

Homemade salads dressings are not only far tastier but healthier too. Swapping inflammatory vegetable oils that are found in many shop bought dressings for our anti-inflammatory antioxidant rich EVOO makes it a far healthier option. 

To make a simple vinaigrette, mix together the following:

Ingredients:

• 1 part vinegar (such as balsamic, red wine, or apple cider)
• 3 parts extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Dijon mustard, honey, or fresh herbs for added flavour

 Instructions:

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar and any optional ingredients.
• Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is well emulsified.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• This classic vinaigrette can be drizzled over leafy greens, roasted vegetables, or even used as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish.

Olive oil is perfect for roasting vegetables, as it helps to bring out their natural flavours while providing a crispy texture. The polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil enhance the nutritional content of the vegetables by making the vitamins and minerals more bioavailable. Whether you're roasting root vegetables like potatoes and carrots or more delicate options like bell peppers and zucchini, extra virgin olive oil is the way to go.

Ingredients:

• Your choice of vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices (such as rosemary, thyme, paprika, harrissa)

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C).
• Chop the vegetables into even-sized pieces.
• Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, spices and herbs.
• Spread the vegetables out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Roast for 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned.

Olive oil can be a star ingredient in simple yet flavorful pasta dishes. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can enhance the flavour of your favourite pasta recipes, adding a rich, velvety texture without the need for heavy sauces. Drizzling EVOO over your pasta also lowers the glycemic load of the pasta.

Ingredients:

• Cooked pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Garlic, finely chopped
• Red pepper flakes
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley)
• Lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

• In a large frying pan, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
• Toss in the cooked pasta, coating it well with the oil and garlic mixture.
• Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and lemon zest.
• Season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Olive oil isn’t just for savoury dishes; it can also be a fantastic ingredient in baking. Its fruity herby, notes complement sweet ingredients, making it a great healthier substitute for butter or other oils in cakes, muffins, and bread. It keeps cakes lovely and moist.

Recipe Idea: Olive Oil Cake

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• Zest of one lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Gradually add the olive oil, milk, and lemon zest, mixing well.
• Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool before serving, and enjoy with a drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Olive oil makes a delicious and simple appetizer when paired with fresh bread. Enjoy simply on its own or combine with your favourite vinegar, fresh herbs and spices.

Ingredients:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Freshly minced garlic
• Fresh herbs (such as basil, oregano, or thyme)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh crusty bread

Instructions:

• Pour a generous amount of olive oil into a small dish.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar, and swirl to combine.
• Sprinkle with black pepper and fresh herbs.
• Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Serve with slices of fresh, crusty bread for dipping.

Olive oil is a versatile and flavourful ingredient that can be used in various ways, from salads and roasted vegetables to pasta dishes, baking, and even as a simple dip.

Its rich taste and health benefits make it a must-have in any kitchen. Experiment with these ideas and discover how olive oil can enhance your cooking.