For as long as I can remember, I’ve been cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO). If you don’t, read on to find out why you should choose European Extra Virgin Olive Oil as the oil of choice in your kitchen.
This post is sponsored by Flavor Your Life and Moms Meet. All opinions expressed are my own.
Growing up, my mom would always have a bottle of olive oil on hand, and it wasn’t used only for cooking. Olive oil was used in our hair as a hot oil treatment and on our skin as a moisturizer. There were lots of uses for olive oil, which is why it has remained a staple in my household as well. I even infuse my EVOO with spices.
When it comes to recipes and cooking, I want the best for my household and my body. When it comes to my oils and my EVOO, I choose European. After all, Europe is known for its olive trees. Olive oils have been used in many recipes for generations and can be found in many households. Did you know that Olive oil has a high smoke point (400° F)? What that means is that it can handle anything from a light sauté to a deep (and intensely flavorful) fry. You can even bake with olive oil, as well.
WHAT EXACTLY IS EVOO
Extra virgin olive oil is simply made by pressing olives without heat or chemicals. That makes it the freshest and purest cooking oil available and it’s virtually acidity free – below 0.8%.
HOW TO STORE YOUR EVOO
Between use, store your oil someplace dark and cool (around 57° F, if possible), never store your EVOO on the countertop or near the stove, and also never store it in your refrigerator.
Always keep lid tightly screwed, and use within six months of opening and within 18 months of purchase.
WHY CHOOSE EUROPEAN EVOO?
The Europeans have a deep respect for the olive tree since the beginning of time. They also know that to make the best tasting, high-quality olive oil possible, the soil and climate have to be at optimal best, and harvest has to be done at the right time. When it comes to the production of European EVOO, they’ve also revolutionized the industry. They have strict olive oil policies and regulations to create the best olive oils possible.
Europe currently offers a vast array of flavor profiles. Yes, there are different flavors of EVOO, which is why having a diverse variety of oils in your pantry for different occasions and recipes is essential.
Here are just a few of the different flavors of European EVOO that are currently available.
- SPANISH OIL is generally golden in color and has a fruity, nutty flavor.
- ITALIAN OLIVE OIL is most often dark green with a herbal aroma and grassy flavor.
- GREEK OLIVE OIL packs a robust flavor and aroma and is often green.
- FRENCH OIL is typically pale in color with a mild flavor.
WHAT TO LOOK WHEN CHOOSING A EUROPEAN EVOO
When choosing your European EVOO, be sure to double-check the country of origin on the label.
Choose oils stored in dark bottles as it cuts down its exposure to light.
Check the date, either the “best buy” or “harvest or bottling date”. Choosing a bottle that’s “fresh” will ensure the best flavor, and be sure to use it within 18 months.
So pick up a bottle of European EVOO the next time you’re at the supermarket. A favorite of mine is Olitalia. Experiment with the flavors, use them for salad dressings, veggies, fish, eggs, or even potatoes, or drizzle as a finisher. And always remember to store away from heat and light, and never keep your oil near the stove.
