Are you one of those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen and looking for new ways to elevate your dishes? If so, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) will be your best ally. This liquid gold not only provides an incomparable flavour, but is also a versatile ingredient capable of transforming any recipe.
Whether you're an amateur cook or an experienced chef, you'll discover that EVOO has much more to offer than you might think. From cooking techniques to innovative seasonings, we invite you to explore 12 ways to use extra virgin olive oil. Get ready to take your cooking skills to the next level.
Marinades
Extra virgin olive oil is perfect for creating marinades that enhance the flavour of meats, fish and vegetables. Its ability to absorb and transfer aromas makes it an ideal medium for infusing spices and herbs.
For best results, use a mild or medium EVOO, such as Arbequina. Combine the oil with fresh herbs, garlic, citrus and spices of your choice. Marinate the food for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This method not only adds flavour, but also helps to maintain the juiciness of the food during cooking. Experiment with different spice combinations to create unique marinades that will surprise your guests.
Emulsions and dressings
An emulsion is the union of two ingredients that may seem incompatible, but that when mixed together provide a sauce with an incomparable texture and flavour. Emulsions and dressings with EVOO are an excellent way to enhance salads and cold dishes.
The key is use the Arbequina variety to make sure it does not mask the flavour of the other ingredient you use. EVOO provides not only flavour, but also a silky texture and a hint of bitterness that perfectly balances the other ingredients. Experiment with different acids and seasonings to create unique dressings to suit your dishes.
Confit
Confit in olive oil is a technique that allows for cooking food at low temperaturepreserving its texture and enhancing its flavour. It is ideal for delicate fish, tender meats and vegetables. Use a mild EVOO, such as the Arbequina variety, so as not to mask the natural flavour of the ingredients.
It heats the oil to a temperature between 60°C and 80°C and immerses the food, cooking it slowly. This technique not only infuses the food with a rich, mild flavour, but also helps to preserve it. Candied foods can be kept in the oil for several days, further intensifying their flavour. Try garlic, herbs or spices in the oil to add additional layers of flavour.
Finishing oil
Using EVOO as a finishing oil is a simple but effective way to elevate any dish. This technique consists of drizzle a splash of high quality oil on the dish just before serving.
Opt for a premium EVOO with an intense and fruity flavour profile, such as Picual or Royal. The heat of the dish will release the aromas of the oil, creating a unique sensory experience. This method is perfect for enhancing soups, pasta, grilled meats, baked fish or even desserts. As well as providing a fresh and vibrant flavour, the oil adds visual appeal with its characteristic sheen. Remember that less is more: a few drops are enough to transform the dish.
Infuse
Creating infused oils is a great way to expand your flavour palette in the kitchen. Start with a mild-tasting EVOO, such as Arbequina, which will act as a blank canvas for your creations.
Gently heat the oil with your chosen ingredients (herbs, spices, citrus, garlic, etc.) over low heat for about 10-15 minutes. Allow to cool and steep for at least 24 hours before filtering. These infused oils can be used for cooking, seasoning or as a finishing oil, adding a unique touch to your dishes. Experiment with combinations such as rosemary and garlic, or even vanilla for desserts. In addition to their culinary use, these flavoured oils make a perfect gourmet gift.
Artistic packaging
EVOO is not only an ingredient, it is also a tool for the creative presentation of dishes. Its consistency and colour make it perfect for creating designs on the plate. Use an oil with an intense flavour and vibrant green colour, such as the Picual variety.
You can draw lines, dots or patterns on the plate before placing the food. You can also create foams or airs of EVOO to add texture and volume to your presentations. This technique not only enhances the aesthetics of the dish, but also adds a touch of intense flavour that complements the main ingredients. Remember that presentation is for the eyes, and artistic plating with EVOO can elevate the dining experience to a whole new level.
Frying
Extra virgin olive oil is excellent for frying food because of its stability at high temperatures. Contrary to popular belief, EVOO is ideal for frying because of its high smoke point (between 190°C and 220°C) and its ability to form a crispy crust that prevents the oil from penetrating excessively into the food.
Frying in EVOO results in tastier and healthier food. The oil forms a protective layer that seals in the juices of the food, maintaining its inner moisture while creating a crispy texture on the outside. In addition, EVOO transfers less fat to the food compared to other oils.
Preserves
EVOO is excellent for the production of homemade preserves, since it not only preserves food but also adds flavour. Use a good quality oil with a medium flavour, such as the Arbequina or Hojiblanca variety. This technique is ideal for preserving roasted vegetables, fresh cheeses, fish or meat.
Sterilise the jars and fill with the prepared ingredients, covering completely with EVOO. You can add herbs or spices to intensify the flavour. The oil acts as a barrier against air, preventing oxidation and bacterial growth. In addition to preserving, the food is slowly infused with the flavour of the oil, improving over time. These preserves are perfect for keeping gourmet ingredients on hand for your recipes or as gifts for friends and family.
Baking
EVOO can be an excellent substitute for other fats in bakingIt provides not only health benefits but also a unique flavour. Choose an oil with a mild flavour, such as the Arbequina variety, so as not to alter the flavour profile of your desserts too much.
You can use EVOO instead of butter or vegetable oils in recipes for cakes, biscuits and even some types of bread. EVOO adds moisture and a light texture to baked goods, as well as a subtle fruity touch that goes particularly well with citrus fruits, nuts and spices. Experiment with classic recipes such as lemon sponge cake or almond biscuits by substituting EVOO for the traditional fat.
Sautéed
Stir-frying with extra virgin olive oil is a quick and healthy technique that preserves the flavour and nutrients of the food. This technique consists of cooking the ingredients quickly over high heat with a small amount of EVOO.
For a perfect stir-fry, choose a medium to full-flavoured EVOO, such as the Royal variety. These oils can withstand the high temperatures of sautéing and provide a robust flavour that complements vegetables and meats well.
Dressing
The dressing with extra virgin olive oil is one of the simplest and most effective ways to enhance the flavour of your dishes.especially salads, cooked vegetables and grilled meats.
To create exceptional dressings, opt for a high-quality EVOO with an intense, fruity flavour profile, such as Picual or Organic Picual. These oils will provide aromatic notes and a spicy touch that will elevate your dishes.
The basic rule for a perfect dressing is a 3:1 ratio of oil to vinegar or citrus juice. However, don't be afraid to experiment with these ratios to suit your personal taste. Add salt and pepper to taste, and consider incorporating fresh herbs, minced garlic or mustard to add depth of flavour.
Low temperature cooking
Low-temperature cooking in EVOO is a technique that allows food to be cooked in a gentle and controlled manner, preserving as much of their nutrients and textures as possible. Use a mild to medium flavoured oil, such as Arbequina or Royal. Heat the oil to a temperature between 60°C and 70°C and immerse the food, cooking it slowly for longer periods.
This technique is ideal for tender meats, delicate fish and vegetables. EVOO not only acts as a cooking medium, but also infuses the food with its rich, complex flavour. In addition, the low cooking temperature prevents the oil from degrading, keeping its healthy properties intact. Experiment with adding aromatic herbs or spices to the oil during cooking to create unique flavour profiles. This technique requires patience, but the result is incredibly juicy and flavourful dishes.
Extra virgin olive oil is much more than just a simple ingredient in the kitchen. It is a versatile tool that offers an almost infinite range of culinary possibilities. Its ability to enhance flavours, improve textures and provide nutritional benefits makes it an indispensable ally for any cook.