Our Guide To The Best Olive Oil

Often hailed as the culinary world's liquid gold, the best olive oil is the most sought-after oil for both cooking and drizzling over salads. While it's a staple in kitchens worldwide, the quality of olive oil can vary, and we are here to walk you through the types of olive oil, the difference between extra virgin and refined olive oil, plus the health benefits of this extraordinary elixir.

From extra virgin to pure olive oil, each has its unique characteristics. While extra virgin olive oil, with its rich flavour, is perfect for dressings and drizzles, refined lighter versions like pure or light olive oil are more suited for cooking, using in a frying pan, and baking. Unrefined, extra-virgin olive oil or cold-pressed is of superior quality as it retains not only all of its strong aromatic properties but also the antioxidants and nutrients often diminished by the high-speed machinery and heat used in modern oil extraction methods.

Best Olive Oil At A Glance:

• Best value olive oil: Filippo Berio Extra-Virgin Olive Oil - View Offer on Sainsbury's
• Best olive oil gift: Nicolas Alziari Cuvee Prestige Olive Oil - View Offer at Selfridges
• Best taste: Odysea Greek PDO Kalamata Olive Oil - View Offer at Amazon UK

From the peppery undertones of some variants to the fruity notes of others, there's an olive oil for every palate, but it's not just about taste. Olive oil is packed with health benefits, making it an excellent food to consume daily. A study funded by notable olive oil brand Filippo Berio found that people who consume 20ml or four tablespoons of olive oil in its raw form each day benefit from combatting coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart health. As olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, it's known to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve heart health, and even reduce inflammation.

For those looking to level up their culinary ventures or want to include this ancient natural medicine into their daily life, here is the crème de la crème of olive oils in the UK you can buy right now.

Best Olive Oil

Our Verdict

Filippo Berio's Extra-Virgin Olive Oil stands out as a winner in terms of affordability and accessibility. The rich, peppery undertones, combined with its versatility in both cooking and dressing, make it a must-have in every kitchen. In terms of taste, we would choose the Odysea extra virgin olive oil. This is a great pick whether dipping fresh bread, enhancing a gourmet dish, or cooking on medium heat.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Olive Oil

Navigating the world of olive oils can be confusing with so many options available. Here are some key considerations to think of:

Type of olive oil: From extra-virgin to light olive oil, each type offers a unique flavour profile and usage. Extra-virgin is unrefined and boasts a robust flavour, making it ideal for dressings, while light olive oil is more suited for cooking.

Extra-virgin: Also seen as EVOO extracted through the cold-pressing technique, it ensures the olives remain under a temperate 27°C, preserving their rich flavour and antioxidant treasures. However, take note as the industry is not regulated, there is a quality spectrum. The best EVOO oils are commonly used for salad dressings and drizzling over finished dishes.

Refined olive oil: Typically derived from mature black olives, undergoes heat treatment. This process might strip away some of its vibrant flavours and antioxidants, but it gifts the oil with resilience, making it good for chefs for cooking and frying. Its low acidity ensures the flavours remain intact, even when things get sizzling.

Infused olive oils: These oils could be made from refined and extra-virgin, and are infused with aromatics like garlic, chilli, or luxurious truffle. While they aren't great for frying pan, they're great at finishing touches, adding a burst of flavour to soups, pastas, and more.

Origin: The region or country of origin can influence the taste and quality of the oil. For instance, Italian olive oils tend to be fruitier, while Spanish variants might have a nuttier profile.

Bottle: Consider how frequently you'll use the oil. A larger bottle might offer better value, but ensure it's stored correctly. Dark glass bottles or tins protect the oil from light, preserving its quality.

Flavour: Whether you prefer a peppery kick or a subtle fruitiness, understanding the flavour notes will help you select an oil that complements your dishes.

Certifications: Look for certifications like PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) or organic labels, which can indicate a higher production standard.

FAQs

What are the health benefits of olive oil?

Olive oil has so many fantastic health benefits. Rich in monounsaturated fats, it improves heart health, reduces inflammation, and lowers the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, it's packed with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.

Why is olive oil in a glass bottle better?

Glass bottles, especially those that are tinted, protect olive oil from light exposure. Light can degrade the quality of the oil, affecting its flavour and nutritional value. Glass also doesn't react with the oil, ensuring that the taste remains unaltered.

How should I store my olive oil?

Store your olive oil in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. This helps preserve its flavour and prolong its shelf life.

Can I use olive oil for frying?

Yes, but using refined or light olive oil for high-heat cooking is advisable. Extra-virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point and is best reserved for dressings or low-heat cooking.

Ellen Kinsey is a Senior Health & Wellness Product Writer for A Modern Kitchen, specialising in sustainable living and healthy cooking. She lives and breathes all things food, travel and wellness.