Olive oil, derived from the fruit of the olive tree, is an indispensable part of cuisines due to its flavor. It is consumed with great pleasure in salads and dishes because of the aroma it brings. However, it’s more appropriate to use different types of olive oils for different dishes. For this, it’s necessary to examine the types of olive oils.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Natural Olive Oil, obtained from olives harvested directly from the tree branch and produced within 4 hours at a temperature of 27 degrees Celsius, does not require any refining process. Natural olive oils with low acidity levels are categorized as extra virgin, virgin, and ordinary virgin. Olive oil with high acidity levels is extremely beneficial. Natural olive oil is often consumed with breakfast foods. You can prepare delicious salads by adding spices to this olive oil and consuming it raw. Additionally, it is one of the most preferred oils for frying and cooking. If you enjoy spreading garlic on toasted bread, you can also add natural olive oil. You can also enhance the flavor of special vegetable purees by mixing roasted garlic and extra virgin olive oil, creating a delightful aroma. You can enjoy these purees alongside your dinner meals as well.
When making salad dressings, you can use lemon or vinegar to complement olive oil. You can also add natural olive oil to homemade foods such as pepper pastes or pesto sauce. This helps prevent the foods from spoiling.
Refined Olive Oil
Among the types of olive oil that undergo mechanical processing, have high acidity levels, and may not be suitable for direct consumption, refined olive oils are included. While mechanical processing removes unwanted characteristics of the oil, it also leads to a noticeable reduction in aroma and flavor compounds.
Refined olive oils contain high levels of acidity. If you enjoy using this type of olive oil, you can prefer it for frying dishes, pastries, and desserts. However, if you plan to use refined olive oils alongside other olive oils, you may need to be a bit cautious. Refined olive oil, commonly associated with pastries and desserts, can bring its unique aroma to your table.
Riviera Olive Oil
Another type of olive oil with high acidity is Riviera olive oil. It is obtained through a blend of refined olive oil and extra virgin olive oil in specific proportions. Riviera olive oil undergoes different refining processes to become ready for consumption. With its proportions of extra virgin olive oil, Riviera olive oils stand out, although they are less nutritious compared to extra virgin olive oils.
You can frequently use Riviera olive oil, which has a mild aroma and flavor, in various dishes. You can incorporate it directly into cold or hot dishes, and it can also be used in salads and raw dishes if desired. Due to their mild flavor, Riviera olive oils are suitable for a variety of dishes. They are commonly used in frying as well.
What Are the Storage Conditions for Olive Oil?
To keep your olive oil fresh and flavorful like the first day, you need to pay attention to some special steps. By considering storage conditions, you can ensure that your olive oil remains fresh for a long time.
Avoid placing olive oil near the stove, oven, or in direct sunlight. It should be stored in a cupboard away from light, with the lid tightly closed to prevent oxygen contact. Light, heat, and oxygen can cause olive oil to deteriorate in taste. By paying attention to storage conditions and using it before the expiration date specified on the packaging, you can safely use olive oil in your delicious dishes. Olive oil pairs well with almost any food, adding a unique flavor to your meals.
