The Finest Harvest in Every Bottle:

PDO/DOP Certified Extra Virgin Olive Oils

Introduction to Cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is a versatile ingredient that can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of a wide variety of dishes. From salads and dips to main courses and desserts, EVOO can be used in numerous recipes to add a rich, robust flavor.

Appetizers and Dips

Classic Hummus

This creamy hummus recipe is a crowd-pleaser and incredibly easy to make.

• 1 can of chickpeas, drained
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt to taste

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Drizzle with more EVOO before serving.

Bruschetta

A simple and delicious Italian appetizer that highlights the flavor of EVOO.

• 1 baguette, sliced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup basil, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Toast the baguette slices, mix the tomatoes, basil, garlic, and EVOO, and spoon the mixture onto the toasted bread. Season with salt and pepper.

Main Courses

Grilled Chicken with Lemon and EVOO

This juicy and flavorful chicken recipe is perfect for a healthy dinner.

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Marinate the chicken in the EVOO, lemon juice, garlic, and thyme mixture for at least 30 minutes. Grill until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.

Pasta Aglio e Olio

A classic Italian pasta dish that showcases the simplicity and elegance of EVOO.

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. In a large pan, heat EVOO and sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant. Toss the pasta with the garlic oil mixture, add parsley, and season with salt. Serve with grated Parmesan.

Salads

Greek Salad

This fresh and vibrant salad is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of EVOO.

• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

In a large bowl, combine the greens, cucumber, onion, tomatoes, olives, and feta. Whisk together EVOO and red wine vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss to combine.

Caprese Salad

A simple yet elegant salad that highlights the quality of your EVOO.

• 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1 ball of fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Balsamic glaze for drizzling
• Salt and pepper to taste

Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a plate, alternating them. Top with basil leaves. Drizzle with EVOO and balsamic glaze, and season with salt and pepper.

Desserts

Olive Oil Cake

This moist and flavorful cake is a delightful way to use EVOO in baking.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3/4 cup milk
• 3 eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the EVOO, milk, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, and pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool before serving.

Expert Tips

According to Chef Antonio Rossi, "Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil in your recipes can significantly enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your dishes. Always choose a fresh, well-packaged EVOO for the best results."

For more delicious recipes, check out our articles on Cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Olive Oil Tasting: How to Appreciate Quality Olive Oil. Learn how to choose the best EVOO in our Buyer’s Guide.