How to Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil in Cooking: Tips & Recipes

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is more than just a kitchen staple—it’s a powerhouse ingredient that enhances flavours, adds depth to dishes, and offers numerous health benefits. Whether you're drizzling it over salads, using it to sauté vegetables, or incorporating it into baking, EVOO can elevate your cooking in unexpected ways.

In this blog, we’ll explore the best ways to use high-quality extra virgin olive oil in your kitchen, ensuring you get the most out of its rich flavours and nutritional benefits.

Why Choose Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

EVOO is the highest grade of olive oil, extracted through cold pressing without heat or chemicals, preserving its antioxidants and healthy fats. Its fruity, peppery notes and slightly bitter finish come from its high polyphenol content—making it both delicious and good for your heart, digestion, and overall well-being.

Best Ways to Use EVOO in Cooking

1. Drizzling & Dipping

One of the simplest and most delicious ways to enjoy EVOO is to use it as a finishing oil. Drizzle it over:

• Fresh salads for added richness

• Grilled or roasted vegetables

• Soups, pasta, or even pizza for a burst of flavour

• A bowl of hummus or Greek yogurt as a dip

For a gourmet touch, pair it with crusty bread and balsamic vinegar, or mix it with sea salt, garlic, and herbs for an easy dipping sauce.

2. Sautéing & Frying

Despite the common myth, high-quality EVOO has a smoke point of around 190-210°C (374-410°F), making it perfectly suitable for:

• Sautéing garlic, onions, and vegetables

• Lightly frying eggs or fish

• Cooking lean meats like chicken or turkey

The key is to cook over medium heat rather than high heat to preserve its delicate flavours and nutrients.

3. Roasting & Grilling

Roasting vegetables, meats, and even fruits with EVOO brings out their natural sweetness and adds a crispy texture. Try:

• Tossing root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes in EVOO before roasting

• Brushing EVOO on meats or fish before grilling for a juicy finish

• Drizzling over baked feta or roasted figs for a Mediterranean twist

  
  

4. Baking with EVOO

EVOO can replace butter in many baking recipes, making cakes and pastries more moist and flavourful while adding healthy fats. Some ideas:

• Use EVOO in place of butter in banana bread or chocolate cake for a richer taste

• Whisk it into homemade granola for a crunchy texture

• Mix into dough for savoury bread or focaccia

5. Making Homemade Dressings & Sauces

EVOO is a perfect base for fresh, flavourful dressings and sauces. Try these:

• Classic vinaigrette: EVOO, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper

• Garlic aioli: EVOO, egg yolk, garlic, and lemon juice

• Pesto: EVOO blended with fresh basil, garlic, parmesan, and pine nuts

6. Finishing Touch for Soups & Stews

A drizzle of EVOO at the end of cooking enhances flavours and adds silkiness. Try it over:

• Tomato soup or gazpacho

• Lentil stew or bean-based soups

• Risottos and pasta dishes for added richness

Choosing the Right EVOO for Cooking

Not all olive oils are created equal. To maximise the benefits and flavours, look for:

• Cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oil (like Oasi Olive Oil from Alandro Farm)

• Dark glass bottles to protect against light exposure

• A fresh, peppery taste with fruity or grassy notes

Final Thoughts

Cooking with extra virgin olive oil is about enhancing natural flavours while adding a dose of healthy fats and antioxidants to your meals. Whether you're frying, roasting, baking, or simply drizzling, EVOO is a must-have in every kitchen.

Try incorporating high-quality EVOO into your daily cooking and taste the difference!