wonderboy, Author at D'Olivo Tasting Bar

September 14, 2023

The Art and Science of Extra Virgin Olive Oil Production

Olive oil, often referred to as “liquid gold,” has been a symbol of prosperity and health for centuries. Its rich history and versatile uses make it a beloved culinary treasure worldwide. But have you ever wondered how this precious oil is made? In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through the intricate process of olive oil production.

The Olive Orchard: A Prerequisite for Quality

The journey of each olive oil begins in the olive orchard, where the choice of olive variety, climate, soil, and farming practices play a pivotal role in determining the oil’s quality and flavor. Here are some key factors that contribute to an exceptional olive orchard:

Olive Varieties

There are hundreds of olive varieties worldwide, each with its unique flavor profile and characteristics. Common varieties include Arbequina, Picual, Koroneiki, and Frantoio. The choice of olive variety often depends on the region’s climate and the intended flavor of the oil.

Climate and Terroir

Olive trees thrive in regions with mild, Mediterranean climates characterized by warm, dry summers and mild winters. The concept of terroir, which includes factors like soil composition and microclimate, can significantly influence the flavor and aroma of the resulting olive oil.

Soil Quality

Olive trees require well-draining soil, preferably with a pH level between 5.5 and 7.5. The mineral content of the soil can affect the nutritional value and flavor of the olives.

Harvesting: Timing Is Everything

The next crucial step in olive oil production is the harvest, which requires precise timing to ensure the olives are at their peak flavor and nutritional content. Harvesting methods include hand-picking and mechanical shaking.

Hand-Picking

Hand-picking is the traditional and labor-intensive method. It’s often preferred for premium oils as it allows for selective harvesting of ripe olives, minimizing damage to the fruit.

Mechanical Shaking

Mechanical shakers are used to dislodge olives from the trees, and nets are placed beneath to collect the falling fruit. While this method is more efficient, it’s not as precise as hand-picking and can result in a mix of both ripe and unripe olives.

Harvest Timing

Timing is critical. Olives harvested too early may produce a bitter oil, while overripe olives can result in a rancid taste. Producers often monitor the olives’ color changes to determine the optimal harvest time.

Milling: The Art of Olive Oil Extraction

Once the olives are harvested, they are taken to the mill for oil extraction. The milling process involves several steps:

Cleaning

The olives are first cleaned to remove leaves, twigs, and dirt.

Crushing

The cleaned olives are then crushed into a paste (often called olive pomice), often using large stone or metal rollers. This process breaks down the cell walls and releases the oil. In order to be considered extra virgin olive oil, the crushing must be done without the use of heat or chemicals.

Malaxation

The olive paste is mixed in a malaxer, a machine that kneads the paste to encourage the oil droplets to merge and form larger ones. This process enhances oil extraction efficiency.

Pressing vs. Centrifugation

Traditionally, olives were pressed to extract oil. However, modern methods often use centrifugation, which separates the oil and water from the paste more efficiently. Centrifugation produces a cleaner, higher-quality oil.

Separating Oil from Water

After milling, the olive paste contains a mixture of oil, water, and solid residues. To obtain the pure olive oil, these components must be separated. This is typically done in a decanter centrifuge or a press.

Decanter Centrifuge

In a decanter centrifuge, the paste is spun at high speeds, separating the components based on their density. The oil, being the least dense, rises to the top, while the water and solids settle at the bottom.

Pressing

Pressing involves applying pressure to the paste, squeezing out the oil. This method is less efficient than centrifugation and is often reserved for traditional or small-scale production.

Clarification and Filtration

Even after separation, the olive oil may contain small water and solid particles. To ensure clarity and quality, the oil is often clarified and filtered through various methods, such as gravity settling, sedimentation tanks, or diatomaceous earth filters.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The Gold Standard

Not all olive oils are created equal, and the term “extra virgin” signifies the highest quality. Extra virgin olive oil is obtained through cold pressing, which means no heat or chemicals are used in the extraction process. It also undergoes rigorous testing for acidity, flavor, and aroma.

At D’Olivo, we take the quality of our olive oils beyond even the standard extra virgin label. Our oils meet 33 quality parameters, and as a result earn the designation of Ultra Premium.

Acidity Level

To be classified as extra virgin, olive oil must have an acidity level of less than 0.8%. Lower acidity levels indicate a superior oil.

Flavor and Aroma

Extra virgin olive oil should have a balanced, fruity flavor with no defects. The aroma should be fresh and characteristic of the olive variety used. Often people describe the flavor and aroma as matching that of fresh cut grass.

Storing and Bottling

Olive oil is extremely sensitive to light, heat, and oxygen, which can cause it to deteriorate and lose its quality. To preserve its freshness, olive oil should be stored and bottled with care.

Storage Conditions

Store olive oil in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Containers should be airtight to prevent exposure to oxygen. Our oils are stored in stainless steel fusti before bottling.

Bottling

Olive oil is typically bottled in dark glass bottles or tins to shield it from light. Avoid clear or plastic containers that can lead to rapid degradation.

Conclusion

The journey of olive oil from orchard to bottle is truly a magnificent blend of tradition and technology. It begins with careful cultivation in well managed orchards, extends through the precise timing of harvest, and culminates in the delicate art of milling and extraction. The result is a healthy and flavorful oil that is ready to be featured in your culinary adventures.
Whether drizzled over a fresh salad, used in cooking, or savored on its own, olive oil stands as a testament to the skill, dedication, and passion of those who labor to bring it to our tables.

Shop our selection of olive oils here – https://dolivotastingbar.com/product-category/dolivo-flavored-olive-oils/

Find recipes here – https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipe/

August 16, 2023

Best Ways to Use Olive Oil

Cooking with olive oil has long been a popular trend, and for good reason. Olive oil, especially high-quality olive oil, offers a flavorful option for a variety of culinary dishes as well as a healthier alternative to many of the other cooking fats available today.

Mastering the art of using olive oil can elevate your cooking to new heights, both in terms of taste and health benefits. Let’s explore the best ways to utilize this precious oil in your culinary creations.

Selecting the Right Olive Oil

The first, and perhaps most important step in this process is to choose the right variety of olive oil. We suggest diving right into extra virgin olive oils as they are the highest quality and also offer the most flavorful option. Obtained from the first cold pressing of ripe olives, without the use of heat or chemicals preserves the taste of the olive fruit while also maintaining all of the amazing health benefits. This oil comes in a variety of options from medium to robust. Extra virgin olive oil also comes from a variety of regions around the world which only serves to enhance the individual flavors of the oils themselves.

As a note, we recommend purchasing from a reputable vendor, like the ultra-premium oils that we source from Veronica Foods. Specialty retailers and reputable vendors have a deeper knowledge of extra virgin olive oils and purchasing from them will ensure you’re getting the highest quality oil on the market.

Dressings and Vinaigrettes

Olive oil forms the foundation of some of the best dressings and vinaigrettes. It’s smooth, fruity undertones complement a variety of ingredients. For a classic vinaigrette, mix extra virgin olive oil with balsamic or red wine vinegar, a touch of Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, and salt. Experiment by adding in fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to create unique flavor profiles.

Enhance the Flavors in Your Cooking

Extra virgin olive oil can work true culinary magic by transforming the most simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes. Use extra virgin olive oil to sauté vegetables, garlic, and onions to form a flavorful base for your next soup, stew, or sauce. The high smoke point of high-quality extra virgin olive oil makes it a great option for a variety of cooking methods from frying to baking.

Baking and Desserts

Olive oil’s subtle fruitiness can enhance baked goods and desserts. Substituting it for butter or other fats in recipes lends a unique dimension to your treats. You can also drizzle a touch of extra virgin olive oil over gelato, ice cream, or even fresh berries for an truly delightful dessert. Try one of our fused or infused olive oils for this.

Dipping and Spreads

Elevate your appetizer game with a simple yet impressive olive oil dip. Mix extra virgin olive oil with a pinch of sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a dash of balsamic vinegar. Serve it with crusty bread for a sophisticated starter. Alternatively, blend olive oil with roasted red peppers, garlic, and chickpeas to create a velvety and healthy spread reminiscent of hummus.

Grilling and Marinades

Olive oil’s robust flavor makes it an excellent companion for grilling. Create tasty marinades by combining extra virgin olive oil with herbs, spices, and acidic elements like lemon juice. Or pair one of our ultra-premium olive oils with one of delicious balsamic vinegars for an extra flavor punch. Marinate meats or vegetables before grilling to impart both flavor and tenderness. The oil’s natural fats also prevent sticking and create attractive grill marks.

You can also top the meat and vegetables with oil and vinegar after cooking to get additional flavor into your dishes.

Preserving and Pickling

Incorporate olive oil into your preservation endeavors. Marinate olives, cheese, or even garlic cloves in a mixture of olive oil and herbs. These make for delectable antipasti or additions to charcuterie boards. The oil acts as a preservative while enhancing the flavors of the preserved ingredients.

Storing Olive Oil

Proper storage ensures that your olive oil retains its freshness and flavor. Keep it away from heat, light, and air, which can lead to oxidation and degradation. Store olive oil in a cool, dark place and tightly seal the container after each use. Olive oil needs to be used within 14 months of the crush date unless it is a free style, then it can be up to 24 months. Extra virgin olive oil is a fruit juice and needs to be treated as such.

Conclusion

Olive oil’s allure lies in its ability to enhance dishes and contribute to a healthy lifestyle. From drizzling over salads to infusing with flavors and even enriching desserts, its culinary potential is truly endless.

July 26, 2023

A Deep Dive into Extra Virgin Olive Oil

What is Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil, or EVOO as it’s commonly known, is a culinary treasure that has long been revered in the industry for both its exceptional flavor and health benefits. Originating from the Mediterranean region, extra virgin olive oil is derived from the pressing of green olives. Depending on where the olives are grown and the oil is pressed, the olive oil will develop a distinct taste, aroma, and nutritional profile. In this article, we take a deep dive into the unique properties of this tasty oil.

Production of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

One of the things that makes extra virgin olive oil so unique is the meticulous production process which focuses on the preservation of all the natural goodness of the olive. The first step in the process is the harvesting of the olives, typically done by hand or through mechanical means. Special care is given to collecting the fruit at exactly the right stage of ripeness to ensure both quality and flavor. The olives are then washed to remove any impurities, and the pits are removed. After pits are removed, the olives are then crushed or ground into a paste. This paste is then cold-pressed to remove the oil from the solid parts of the olive.

In order to be classified as extra virgin, the olive oil must come from the first cold-pressing of the fruit. Avoiding the use of heat or chemicals to extract the oil is what maintains the purity of the oil and ensures that the health benefits remain.

Once the oil is extracted, the oil is then stored in stainless steel containers (fusti), protecting the oil from exposure to light, heat, and air – all of which can degrade the quality of the oil. The entire process from fruit to oil is typically carried out within a few hours of harvesting to preserve the freshness and nutritional value of the oil.

Chemical Composition

One of the things that sets extra virgin olive oil apart from other oils and fats are the distinctive characteristics and health benefits. Predominantly composed on monounsaturated fats, about 70-80% of olive oils total fat content comes from oleic acid. Monounsaturated fats are considered heart-healthy fats that can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, extra virgin olive oil, contains antioxidants such as polyphenols and vitamin E, which play an important role in protecting the body from inflammation and oxidative stress.

Health Benefits of Olive Oil

As we’ve mentioned, one of the causes for the rise in popularity for extra virgin olive oil is tied to its overall health benefits. Some of which we discuss below.

1.Cardiovascular Health – there have been several studies that demonstrated the positive impact of extra virgin olive oil on heart health. It’s high content of oleic acid helps maintain good cholesterol levels by reducing LDL and increasing HDL. In addition, the polyphenols contribute to its cardiovascular benefits by preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol.

2. Anti-inflammatory Properties – chronic inflammation is linked to various health conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers. The polyphenols present in extra virgin olive oil have potent anti-inflammatory effects helping reduce inflammation in the body.

3.Weight Management – while common thought has it that all fats contribute to weight gain, the monounsaturated fats in extra virgin olive oil actually aid in weight management. Consuming this type of oil has been associated with increased feelings of satiety, which leads to a reduction in overall calorie intake.

4.Antioxidant Effects – extra virgin olive oil is a rich source of powerful antioxidants, which can protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that come about during normal cell metabolism. Polyphenols and vitamin E which are present in extra virgin olive oils help neutralize oxidative stress, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support overall health.

Conclusion

Extra virgin olive oil is more than just a delicious oil for adding into your cooking repertoire. It’s a true embodiment of the phrase that food is medicine. It’s unique chemical composition, rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds, makes it a culinary treasure that’s packed with health benefits. Adding this oil into your diet should be a no brainer – especially with so many tasty options available.

If you’re looking for the perfect way to dive into the world of extra virgin olive oil, we encourage you to check out our ultra-premium offerings. Shop online or visit us in store and we’ll take you through a true olive oil tasting experience.

Need recipe ideas for your favorite oil, we’ve got you covered too. Visit the recipe section of our website here – https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipe/

June 21, 2023

How to Tell If Your Olive Oil Has Gone Bad

Raise your hand if you’ve ever been digging through your cupboard and stumbled upon an item or two with a questionable expiration date. We’ve been there a time or two, and while it might be safe to use those products in whatever you’re cooking (I mean does garlic powder really expire), using certain expired items could truly ruin an otherwise delicious meal.

Extra virgin olive oil, especially high-quality oils like our ultra-premium varieties can bring an extra boost of flavor to any dish, but not if they’ve expired. In today’s blog we’re walking you through the steps of identifying an olive oil that’s gone bad, and exploring ways to prevent that from happening.

How to Tell If Olive Oil Is Expired

There are truly two ways to tell if your olive oil has expired and both work on their own, but using the two in combination is probably the most effective way to know if the oil is in fact bad.

First, smell the oil. Open the bottle, pour some out and smell the oil. A good olive oil should smell fresh and green like ripe olives. Rancid oil will smell a bit waxy like crayons or putty. Second, taste the oil. A good oil will taste “green” like fresh grass or ripe green olives. If it is at all greasy or tastes like nuts that have gone bad get rid of it.

Cooking with or eating rancid oil won’t make you sick, however, the off flavor you’ll get is likely to ruin a recipe. If you find that your oil has gone bad we suggest tossing it out and making a trip to the store.

How to Help Prevent Olive Oil from Going Bad

While olive oil can go bad unexpectedly, there are a few things that are known to cause it to become rancid sooner than the expiration date. Check out our tips below for protecting your oil

1. Store it in a dark bottle – exposure to light can cause your olive oil to go bad more quickly than normal so you should store your oil in a dark bottle and in a cabinet away from light.

Preventing exposure to light is why our oils and balsamic vinegars are stored in stainless steel containers (fustis) and then transferred to dark bottles and sealed right in store. This ensures a fresh bottling and helps prevent exposure to light.

2. Don’t Expose it To Air – exposure to the air can also impact the oil and cause it to go rancid before the expiration date. When you use your oil be sure that you get a good seal on it after use. You’ll also want to ensure that you use it up within a few months after you’ve opened it.

3. Exposure to Heat – While your oil is good at room temperature you’ll want to be sure that you don’t over-expose it to additional heat. Make sure you don’t leave it out on the counter where it sits in the sunlight for a majority of the day or it may alter the olive oil shelf life.

May 17, 2023

Best Recipes for Green Olives

Here at D’Olivo we love olives. From the beautiful, delicious, and high-quality extra virgin olive oils they produce to the tasty recipes you can make with both the olives and the olive oils there’s so much to explore. Check out some of our favorite recipes for green olives below!

Pizza with Green Olives

Everyone loves a good pizza, and no matter what your favorite go-to toppings are, green olives, and the flavor profile they can offer, make an excellent addition. Get adventurous and take a break from ordering pizza from your favorite place and instead try making it a family affair by making your own. We’ve got a great pizza recipe for you to check out.

https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/green-olive-pizza/

Greek Salad

Greek salads are a favorite for us, especially during the warm summer months when it’s nice to have lots of healthy, flavorful, and refreshing recipes on hand. For those days when you need a quick snack or just don’t want to fire up the stove or grill, consider throwing one of these together. It also makes a great potluck dish – quick and easy – so keep this one on hand for any occasion.

https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/green-olive-greek-salad/

Greek Chicken Pita

We’re staying with the Greek theme on this next suggestion too. What can we say, they know how to cook with olives! A Greek gyro is one of the tastiest dishes you can find, and this recipe puts a fun spin on that traditional dish. While it calls for chicken you could definitely substitute in another meat of your choosing or make it all-veggies. Give it a try.

https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/greek-chicken-pita-bowls/

Marinated Olives

Green olives, or olives of any kind really, can be delicious on their own. You can purchase some amazing stuffed olives (at D’Olivo we offer a great selection of Delizia stuffed olives) or purchase pitted green olives and marinate your own. If you’re the kind who likes to tinker with homemade goods, give these a try.

https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/marinated-olives/

Pasta Salad

Another easy, quick side-dish for the warm summer months is pasta salad. Kick yours up a notch or two by adding in green olives. If you’re feeling extra adventurous try your favorite stuffed Delizia olive and substitute it for plain, pitted green olives. Trust us that this one is going to be a crowd pleaser.

https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/green-olive-pasta-salad/

Shrimp Orzo Salad

Shrimp, or any fish, can make a great meal and this orzo pasta dish is no exception. We love things that are quick to make and throw together since we know how great it is to have easy meals on hand for extra busy weeknights or for days that you just don’t want to spend too much time cooking.

https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/shrimp-orzo-salad/

Sheet Pan Chicken

Another easy to make meal is sheet pan chicken. Simply throw together your sauce, marinate it in the dressing of your choice and place everything onto a pan and bake it in the oven. It comes out with everything ready to go. You can choose to add some additional sides or just eat it as is. If you’re looking for a great sheet pan recipe to try, we’ve got a great one.

https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/sheet-pan-chicken/

March 14, 2023

Why Does the Smoke Point of Olive Oil Matter?

There is a lot of confusion around smoke points and its impact on the health benefits of olive oil. To understand and sort through the questions, it’s first important to know what smoke point actually is and isn’t.

For some, smoke point is measured by how long it takes for the smoke detector to sound! Before we make that a step in our recipes, let’s explore the components of smoke point and its connection to olive oil.

What is Smoke Point?

Let’s start with clarifying some terms that are frequently used to describe and explain oils and cooking.

Smoke points are usually a range of temperatures. When oils reach the temperatures within this heat scale, they begin to burn. Burning causes the components of the oil to begin breaking apart causing fats in the oil start to smoke. When this occurs, oils begin to lose some of their health benefits.

Additionally, harmful fumes can be emitted when oils burn past their smoke point. Plus, if we’re being honest, food just doesn’t always taste great if it has been cooked in oil that reaches its smoke point.

How Does an Oil ‘Get’ a Smoke Point?

Now, you may be wondering how you can control an oil’s smoke point. We as consumers can control how we store and use our oils. But, the oils we purchase will already have a smoke point. And, yes, all oils have a smoke point.

One factor that impacts an oil’s smoke point is their processing. Vegetable and corn oils are typically classified as refined oils. This grouping of cooking oils has been manufactured in processes that are heavily reliant on chemicals. Usually, refined oils are clear in appearance and neutral in taste. As part of their processing, refined oils are formulated to cook at higher temperatures, so these oils have a higher smoke point.

You may be thinking, that’s great. I’ll cook with refined oils and eliminate concerns about smoke points. However, because of the purification or refining process, these oils create health concerns. Their natural goodness of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants have been manufactured out of them.

Let’s look at unrefined oils and their smoke points. Unrefined or virgin oils have not been processed using heat or chemicals. Without the application of heat during the manufacturing, unrefined oils are more delicate; therefore, they have lower smoking points. But virgin and unrefined oils retain their health benefits due to how they are made.

Can You Cook at High Heat with Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

The short answer is yes, you can use extra virgin olive oil in your cooking, including cooking at higher temperatures. Most quality bottles of Extra Virgin Olive Oil can be heated to just over 400 degrees. Most recipes that are created in home kitchens will not require you to heat your oil to that temperature and certainly not any hotter. So, this means that you can safely sauté and fry your delectable recipes using your quality EVOO.

Making the news even better, when you reach higher temperatures with your EVOO, the oil is not breaking apart and releasing toxins. You can cook your favorite foods with healthy EVOO and not worry; you can actually begin to add more flavor to your food. EVOO remains very stable at high temperatures.

You might wonder why there has been so much confusion about extra virgin olive oil and strong suggestions that it should not be used for frying or sautéing. Many in the food world believe that earlier tests were not always conducted with high quality EVOO. The widespread use of all ranges of olive oil in the United States is a fairly recent trend. Therefore, it is also a relatively new phenomenon to be able to purchase high quality oils.

There are better indicators of an oil’s ability to withstand high temperatures than its smoke point. One measurement of an oil’s stability when heated is how much it has been refined in its manufacturing process. EVOO does not go through a refining process, which is another reason that it performs so well at high heat levels.

Additionally, the composition of an oil is another measurement of its performance. Oils with lower levels of polyunsaturated fats are more stable at high temperatures. Again, EVOO is a great choice because it has a low percentage of polyunsaturated fats.

Does an Oil’s Smoke Point Matter?

This has another straightforward answer, yes, an oil’s smoke point does matter. Most oils will provide a wide enough range of temperatures to cook most foods. However, if you do reach or exceed the smoke point of your oil, you do want to remove your pan from the heat. You definitely want to avoid causing the temperature of the oil to escalate to its flash point.

Acrolein is released when oils begin to smoke. This acid is what causes the burnt scent that you might be smelling. Once the oil has cooled off, do a taste test. You want to make sure that it doesn’t have a bitter flavor. If the oil does have that acrid smell and flavor, you should safely discard it, and start your meal prep again.

What Are the Temperature Ranges for Olive Oil?

The range of temperatures that olive oils can be used to cook with vary greatly. Extra light olive oil has a much higher smoke point than extra virgin oil olive. Since extra light olive oil has been formulated using a different process, it can withstand temperatures of more than 480 degrees. The smoke point for virgin olive oil falls between extra light and extra virgin at around 430 degrees.

While different types of olive oil provide great versatility in how you can use them because of their high smoke points, the healthiest option is extra virgin olive oil which is processed in a way that allows it to retain all of the health benefits.

There are so many great options available for extra virgin olive oil, including both fused and infused flavored options. That means one of your biggest decisions, and the most fun, is choosing the oil that tastes best in whatever dish you’re preparing.

Stop in to your local specialty shop to select ones that will complement the type of cooking that you do. Shops that sell quality olive oils will offer tastings that will help you in your selection process. If you’re still not certain which olive oil to buy, try a variety pack.

Next time you’re cooking, grab a couple of bottles to try. Sounds like it’s time to invite friends over for a tasting party! Have fun!

February 22, 2023

The History of Olive Oil

Olive oils and olives are a part of the cuisine in many homes and restaurants. For some, infusing olive oils into cooking and recipes is relatively new; other home chefs have been enjoying the delights of this ancient fruit for years.

Classified as a fruit, olives are composed of up to thirty percent oil. Its oil can vary in taste and color. Where the trees are grown, the process to extract the oil, and the ripeness of the olive are all factors in the resulting oils.

Origination of Olive Trees and Olive Oil

Findings from archeologists suggest that olive trees and olive oil may have existed as long ago as 5000 BCE. Pieces of pottery excavated in present day Israel contain evidence of olives and olive oil that supports the belief that olive oil may be up to 8,000 years old. The exact location of the first tree or grove of olive trees has not been discovered, but most scientists believe its origins are in the area of Syria, Israel, and/or sub-Saharan Africa.

Regardless of the location of the first tree, olive trees have been mentioned in literature from ancient texts and often throughout the Bible. As with its proliferation in writings from thousands of years ago, the trees themselves spread throughout the Mediterranean as trade flourished.

Records show that in ancient trading ports of 2000 BCE, olive oil was the most expensive oil traded and far more valuable than wine. Ancient Phoenicians continued spreading the propagation of olive trees with the growth of their trading routes. With the dramatic expansion of the Roman Empire, the cultivation and trade of olives, olive oil, and olive trees continued to spread.

Ancient Uses of Olive Oil

Due to its many uses, olive oil had tremendous value, which caused its rapid dissemination throughout the ancient trading pathways and the Roman Empire. Numerous rituals, civic and religious, included the use of olive oil. Kings, leaders, and warriors were anointed with olive oil to mark special occasions. Messiah means the anointed one. It was an essential part of daily life, used in cooking and providing fuel for lamps.

Many cultures refer to olives, olive oil, and olive branches. In the Old Testament of the Christian Bible, Noah receives an olive branch delivered by a dove. This was Noah’s notification that the flood was over, and he with other survivors could leave the ark. When the Jewish people had to flee from Egypt, only olive oil was permitted to light their Menorah. Today, olive oil remains the preferred method to light the candles.

Ancient Greeks believed olive oil was holy and used it in their sacred ceremonies. Preparation for burials included anointing the body of the deceased with olive oil. Ancient kings were anointed with olive oil in their coronation ceremonies. Many of the ancient religions believed that extra virgin olive oil was the only one worthy of offering to the gods. Religions of today continue to use olive oil in the anointing and consecration ceremonies.

Not only was olive oil used in burials, but olive twigs were also part of the ancient Spartan ritual. Branches created a protective foundation for the soul of the deceased. Attendees to the funeral wore crowns made from olive branches as a safeguard against evil spirits.
Ancient medical practitioners, including Hippocrates, treated over sixty known maladies with olive oil. Galen, a doctor from ancient Rome, used olive oil in his formation of cold cream. Conditions from infections to burns to sore throats were all healed with olive oil. Some people today believe that drinking olive oil each day maintains a healthy body.

Olive Oil’s Rise in Popularity and Use

Rising cholesterol levels and their corresponding medical issues in the 1980s caused concerns in the medical community. Research into contributing factors included the connection between trans fats and heart disease. These fatty acids now require labeling and in some areas are banned. Not only do trans fats increase the bad cholesterol, but they lower the good cholesterol levels in those who consume them.

Additional research from the medical community demonstrated the positive impact of a Mediterranean or Tuscan diet. Eliminating the use of killer fats with the healthier fats of olive oil was one key factor in suggested diet changes for many Americans. Medical experts touted olive oil’s role in controlling cholesterol. Data supports olive oil’s health benefits in lowering risks for heart disease, diabetes, and inflammation.

Olive Oil Production

It can be confusing to know which olive oil does what and when to use each grade. Processed without heat in the traditional method and creating a deeper flavor is cold-pressed olive oil. First cold pressed oils are more expensive, of higher quality, and healthier. It’s these oils that receive the Extra Virgin Olive Oil designation.

EVOO or Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the healthiest olive oil with vitamin E, polyphenols, and antioxidants. It is processed without any chemicals and will contain less than 0.8 percent free fatty acids. Between brands and manufacturers, the aroma, flavor, and color of the oil can and do vary. EVOO is the tastiest olive oil and makes a wonderful addition to many recipes.

Virgin Olive Oil is still a tasty olive oil with a slightly more elevated level of acidity. Sautéing and other low heat food preparation can be good uses of virgin olive oil. Virgin olive oil has a milder taste than EVOO, so it works well in recipes that the taste of the oil is not the star. Its free fatty acid levels will be less than 2.0 percent.

Refined Olive Oil has been processed through more steps than EVOO. This oil can cook foods at a high temperature, which is what refined olive oil is most useful for.

Pure Olive Oil is a blended oil created by combining extra virgin or virgin oil and refined oils. Used for cooking, massages, or skin treatments makes the best use of its qualities.

About Our Olive Oil

Here at D’Olivo Tasting Bar, we pride ourselves on only selling the highest quality of olive oil to our customers. While we’re thrilled that olive oil consumption continues to increase, we are concerned about the misleading labeling. Be sure you’re getting the most out of cooking with olive oil by purchasing the best quality products.

Visit our store in person or online, D’Olivo Tasting Bar. You will see and taste the difference between our line of olive oil and others.

January 31, 2023

Fun Ways to Cook With Olive Oil in 2023

Olive oil is a heart-healthy addition to anyone’s diet. So, most of us have a bottle or two in our pantries. Sometimes when we know a food is good for us, it doesn’t seem like it can be fun as well. Let’s change that and explore ways to have fun cooking with olive oil in 2023.

Hitting the Boards

From charcuterie boards to butter boards, olive oil has a starring role in all types of boards. For your charcuterie board, drizzle olive oil over hard cheeses. Add some freshly ground pepper to enhance the taste. Heighten the flavor intensity of fresh and soft cheeses with a delicate stream of olive oil with a pinch of sea salt.

Butter boards are not complete without a roasted head of garlic or two. Using olive oil is a great to create a rich depth of garlic flavor. Add the jam-like garlic to your butter board.
Don’t put the olive oil or your boards away, yet! To create your potato board, you will need to use your favorite olive oil to create delectable crispy potato wedges. Use different types of potatoes as the base for your potato board. Add dipping sauces of aioli and herb-infused olive oils to create a fun tasty treat.

Maybe an olive oil board is the next appetizer sensation?!

Elevating your Snacks

Movies and popcorn are a great way to spend time with family and friends. Why not use olive oil instead of less healthy oil to pop your corn? No need to melt and pour butter over your hot just popped corn, drizzle some oil and sea salt to create an easy, fun, and affordable snack. Freshly ground pepper can really bring out the depth of flavor from the olive oil.

Another snack classic whose flavors can be elevated by cooking with your favorite olive oil are chicken wings. Mix your wings in olive oil before putting them in the oven. Turn a couple of times, so the wings are crispy on both sides. Then mix hot sauce and olive oil, baste frequently. Use the rest of the sauce for tangy dipping.

Don’t Forget your Air Fryer

A fabulous addition to many kitchens is the versatile air fryer. A great way to make almost anything and make it healthier is mixing your ingredients in olive oil before adding them to the air fryer. Extra light olive oil has a high smoking point, so it is a terrific oil to use with your air fryer. From steaks to veggie chips to shrimp for tacos, all your air fried food flavors will be intensified when you use any one of your favorite oils.

Time for Dessert

Yes, even cakes, cupcakes, and cookies can be more fun if you upgrade from regular oil or butter to heathier and more tasty olive oil. When substituting butter with olive oil, you usually do not need a one-to-one ratio. Instead try .75 olive oil to 1.0 of the butter requirements. Your cakes will be moist and crumbly. Don’t forget how tasty the combination of dark chocolate, sea salt, and olive oil is, which is a great topping for your olive oil infused cake!

Enjoy experimenting and cooking with olive oil in 2023. There’s a seemingly endless combination of flavors to explore!

January 12, 2023

What Is the Healthiest Olive Oil

While the popularity of olive oil has grown over the years, experiencing a major boost in the last decade or so, the information surrounding olive oil and its health benefits is still surprisingly difficult for many consumers. In fact, though it remains one of the most popular cooking fats, thanks in large part to its presence in the Mediterranean diet, there are very minimal national regulations that producers must follow.

As everyone looks for healthier cooking options, marketers world-wide have created a lot of confusion about this special oil and what exactly makes it unique. We’re here to help break down the information barrier by offering quick tips on how to truly understand olive oils.

Olive Oil Grades

The first step to understanding olive oil is a recognition that there are several grades of this type of fat. Depending on the source you use, there are typically five or six grades. Using the USDA regulations for example show five total grades including U.S. Extra Virgin, U.S. Virgin, U.S. Virgin Not Fit for Human Consumption without further processing, U.S. Olive Oil, and U.S. Refined Olive Oil. For a complete guide to these visit the website here (https://www.ams.usda.gov/grades-standards/olive-oil-and-olive-pomace-oil-grades-and-standards)

While many of these titles won’t be seen on the labels you find at the store, it’s important to note that Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the highest quality or grade of olive oil that you can purchase.

Why Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oils are the purest oils that you will find on the market. By definition, extra virgin olive oils are made from the first, cold-pressing of the olives. Using this method of extraction for the oil means that no heat or chemical compounds are used in the production of the olive oil juice.

By not using heat or chemicals, it maintains both the purity of the olive fruit and the health benefits as well. Studies have linked olive oil to numerous health benefits including:

– Decreased blood pressure
– Lower inflammation
– Improved Heart Health
– Weight Loss Aid

Other olive oil titles you may see on grocery store labels include pure, light, virgin, etc. these labels indicate that the oil is no longer in its purest form and most likely are blended with other, less high-quality oils such as vegetable or canola.

What to Look for When Shopping

As we’ve mentioned, because there is no real national standard for regulation on olive oils, it’s important for every consumer, especially those looking for the highest quality product, to be wary of labels that they see on the grocery store shelves. Even those oils that are labeled extra virgin may not meet the standards outlined by the USDA.

Tips to Ensure You Get the Best Quality Olive Oil

1.Buy from a Specialty Retailer – one of the best ways to ensure that you get an actual high-quality olive oil is to purchase from a specialty retailer who knows the olive oil industry and has a focus on providing quality products to their customers. D’Olivo for example, specializes in olive oils and balsamic vinegars, sourcing all our products from Veronica Foods.

Veronica Foods takes seriously the quality of their products and ensures that every oil offered from their distributors meets the most rigorous of standards, earning their oils the designation of ultra-premium.

2. Look for a sell-by or harvest date – any quality extra virgin olive oil will provide this information on a label so that consumers know when the oil itself was harvested and when it should be sold by to ensure a high-quality taste.

3. Know What A Good Olive Oil Tastes Like – knowing the product your buying will go a long way in ensuring quality. A fresh, high-quality olive oil should smell like fresh grass, and the most flavorful will have a fruity or peppery taste. Ideally, you’ll be able to taste the oil before you make your purchase which will guarantee you get a good one.

4. After You Purchase Store the Oil Properly – once you’ve purchased your olive oil, in order to make sure that it doesn’t go bad after opening you’ll want to store it properly. This means you need to store you oil in a dark bottle, with a good seal to avoid exposure to the outside air. You also want to store it in a cool, dark location. Exposure to both heat and light can cause spoiling of the oil. Also, be sure to use it up within a few months after opening or within two years if it’s still sealed.

December 2, 2022

Tips and Tricks for Cooking with Olive Oil

With the end of October in site, that means the holiday months are nearly here. With this season of thankfulness and cheer is also accompanied by lots of time in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting family for Thanksgiving or gearing up for all those holiday office parties, food is most likely on the brain.

We hope that like us, this idea of extra time in the kitchen for cooking and baking brings a sense of true joy. Our team at D’Olivo loves preparing delicious food for those we love to enjoy. As we look forward to lots of that in the weeks ahead we’re sharing our top tips and tricks for cooking with the always popular olive oil.

Remember Olive Oil Can Be Used with High Heat

One of the points that olive oil opponents often use in arguments for why you shouldn’t use olive oil as a fat alternative in cooking is that it cannot be used at high heats. However, if you’re using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil this simply isn’t true. In fact, high-quality olive oils have an extremely high smoke point making them safe for use, even in high heat situations.

So, if you’ve got a turkey you want to fry or another high-temperature recipe don’t be afraid to purchase a high-quality olive oil and use it as a healthy alternative for your holiday recipe.

Olive Oil Makes A Great Butter Substitute

While we love to cook and bake, we also recognize that this time of year can bring lots of anxiety as we look to stay healthy while still enjoying baked goods. This is where olive oil can play a role, as it makes a great substitute for butter and other fats in many recipes. As you get ready to make your next pie crust, cookies, or other delicious treat upgrade the ingredients and try a high-quality olive oil.

Not only will you save on calories, but the health benefits of olive oil will give it an extra boost. The ideal ratio for butter substitutions is below:

1 teaspoon = ¾ teaspoon
1 tablespoon = 2 ¼ teaspoons
2 tablespoons = 1 ½ tablespoons
½ cup = 3 tablespoons
1/3 cup = ¼ cup
½ cup = ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons
2/3 cup = ½ cup
¾ cup = ½ cup + 1 tablespoon
1 cup = ¾ cup

When substituting olive oil for canola, vegetable, or another oil simply use a 1:1 ratio.

*Pro tip – try our butter flavored olive oil to keep that rich, buttery flavor alive in the dish.

Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative

Our team at D’Olivo always tries to encourage this point for every customer who steps through the door to taste through our selection. Olive oil, especially our flavored varieties, offer a world of opportunity for enhancing and changing up even your most standard of dishes. Especially if paired with our selection of delicious balsamic vinegars.

If you’ve got a turkey to cook, try basting it with our rosemary, garlic, or mushroom sage olive oils. Preparing to make a side salad? Whip up a dressing using your favorite balsamic vinegar paired with olive oil. If you want to make the prime rib pop for guests, marinate it ahead of time with our Tuscan herb olive oil and neapolitan herb dark balsamic vinegar.

Don’t Forget Cocktail Hour

While not the first thing you might think of when it comes to balsamic vinegars, they make a great, low calorie addition for many of the cocktails that you might be planning to enjoy this holiday season. Check out a few of our favorite recipes below.

Hot Toddy – https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/hot-toddy/
Orange-Umeboshi Mimosa – https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/orange-umeboshi-mimosa/
Lemongrass-Mint Mojito – https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/lemongrass-mint-mojito/
Elderflower Champagne Cocktail – https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/elderflower-champagne-cocktail/
Tropical Shrub (non-alcoholic) – https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipes/tropical-shrub/

As you jump into the season, remember most importantly to enjoy the experience and if you need any help, visit our website for plenty of inspiration and suggestions – https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipe/