Olive oil is becoming increasingly popular worldwide as more people learn about the importance of eating healthy fats. One of the best sources of nutritional fats and cooking oils you can buy is high quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). In this week’s blog we’ll explain why olive oil is a superfood and how its nutritional benefits exceed other cooking oils.
What is a superfood?
Superfoods are densely nutritious foods that are exceptionally good for your health and well-being. Some of the most powerful superfoods are garlic, blueberries, broccoli, spinach and olive oil. Experts suggest incorporating these nutritious foods into a balanced diet. Thankfully, really good olive oil compliments and enriches most foods.
What are the health benefits of olive oil?
Nutrient-rich superfoods contain a variety of vitamins and minerals to help ward off disease and extra weight. They also improve energy levels, support cell growth and protect organs. Healthy extra virgin olive oil is known to be one of the best superfoods because of its powerful antioxidants and monounsaturated fats. Even though oil is all fat, studies have shown evoo can lower cholesterol and body inflammation. However, it’s important to buy top rated olive oil. Regular olive oil, virgin olive oil or extra light olive oil has been chemically refined and overly processed which significantly reduces its nutrients and flavors.
What’s the best oil to cook with?
It depends. Not all cooking oils perform the same, but quality olive oil tends to be the most versatile and most flavorful. While evoo has several health benefits, it’s smoke point is relatively lower than other oils. Therefore, we recommend it for low and medium heat cooking, as well as dipping and drizzling. Vegetable oil has a higher smoke point which works well for deep frying, but it’s generally less nutritious. It’s usually made from a blend of sources including corn, palm and soybeans. It also contains a higher amount of polyunsaturated fats which can increase inflammation and harm heart health. Avocado oil and sunflower oil are more nutritious options and they have a relatively high smoke point. However, they don’t have much flavor.
How can olive oil be used?
Everyday extra virgin olive oil is incredibly versatile for cooking. Over time, the Pasolivo family has developed an array of recipes to bring out your inner chef. That includes: main dishes, side dishes, soups, salads, appetizers, drinks and desserts. Many of our recipes explain how to cook, bake and dip with California olive oil. It’s not just a cooking oil, it’s a major ingredient meant to enhance the dishes that you love. For that reason, we offer flavored olive oil such as Red Jalapeno Olive Oil, Citrus Olive Oil and Rosemary Olive Oil. Each flavor compliments a dish differently. Scroll down to view some of our favorite recipes.
Olive Oil Cocktail
Pasolivo’s most notable cocktail uses olive oil and citrus to make an incredibly smooth and delicious refreshment.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounce navy strength gin
- 1/2 ounce Pasolivo Citrus Olive Oil or Pasolivo Lemon Olive Oil
- 1/2 ounce lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- Pinch of Pasolivo Pacific Blue Kosher Sea Salt
Preparation:
Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously. Add ice and shake again then strain in a chilled cup.
Jalapeno Chicken Enchiladas
We love these Jalapeño Chicken Enchiladas topped with cheese and saucy goodness. Serve with chips, salsa and margaritas!
Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp Pasolivo Red Jalapeno Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Pasolivo Kosher Flake Sea Salt
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 Tbsp jalapeno, finely chopped
- 3 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 8 flour or almond flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
To serve:
- Shredded lettuce
- Chopped tomatoes
Preparation:
Brush a 9×9 pan with Pasolivo Red Jalapeno Olive Oil. Warm Pasolivo Red Jalapeno Olive Oil in a fry pan. Then add Pasolivo Kosher Flake Sea Salt and onions. Saute until the onion is translucent. Add jalapeno and cook for an additional minute. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, onion mixture, and chicken. Spread 1/4-1/3 cup mixture into each tortilla, roll up, and place in pan. When all tortillas are in the pan, brush them with Pasolivo Jalapeno Olive Oil. then top with shredded cheese. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted. Serve with desired toppings.
Tangerine Olive Oil Brownies
Once you’ve tried this brownie recipe, you’ll never use a boxed mix again!
Ingredients:
- 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Pasolivo Tangerine Olive Oil
- 2 Tbsp water
- 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate broken/chopped into pieces
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp. baking soda
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan, or line it with aluminum foil. In a small bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking soda. Microwave sugar, Pasolivo Tangerine Olive Oil and water in a large microwave-safe bowl on high (100%) power for 4 to 5 minutes or until mixture bubbles, stirring once. Remove from heat. Add chocolate; stir until melted. Stir in eggs one at a time until incorporated. Stir in vanilla extract. Add flour, baking soda and salt; stir well. Stir in nuts. Pour into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out slightly sticky. Remove to a wire rack to cool completely.
