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olive oil

Oils & FatsYear-round availability, though freshly pressed oils from the autumn harvest (September–November in the Northern Hemisphere) offer peak flavor and quality for several months following production.

Rich in monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, olive oil is associated with cardiovascular health benefits; extra virgin varieties contain higher concentrations of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

About

Olive oil is a liquid fat extracted from olives (Olea europaea), the fruit of the olive tree native to the Mediterranean region. The oil is produced through mechanical pressing or crushing of ripe or unripe olives, with production methods ranging from traditional stone-grinding to modern centrifugal techniques. Quality and flavor vary significantly by harvest time, olive cultivar, growing region, and production process. Extra virgin olive oil, the least processed form, is obtained from the first cold pressing and retains the most flavor, aroma, and polyphenols. Virgin and refined olive oils undergo additional processing for higher smoke points and more neutral flavors. The oil's color ranges from pale yellow to deep green, depending on olive ripeness and processing methods, with flavor profiles spanning from buttery and fruity to grassy, peppery, and herbaceous.

Culinary Uses

Olive oil is fundamental to Mediterranean cuisine and widely used across global cooking traditions. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for finishing dishes, dressings, and dips where its flavor is highlighted, while refined or light olive oil is suited for cooking at higher temperatures. The oil is essential in Italian, Spanish, Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines for sautéing, roasting, emulsifying vinaigrettes, and drizzling over soups, grains, and vegetables. Regional preferences influence usage: Spanish oils often accompany hearty stews and grilled meats, while Greek and Italian oils complement tomato-based dishes, fresh herbs, and cheeses. Beyond savory applications, olive oil appears in Mediterranean desserts and breads.

Used In

Recipes Using olive oil (1,807)

RCI-VG.004.0682.001

Hummus Fijian-style

Hummus Fijian-style from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.002.0116.001

Hvidløgssuppe

This garlic soup can be traced back to Greece. Serve with herbed toast.

RCI-SN.001.0225.001

Ikra Ovoshchnaia

This recipe came from an estate sale. I obtained it when I purchased the family collection from the Gingham Estate in Fort Worth, Texas in 1992.

RCI-VG.005.0078.001

Imam Baildi

Imam Baildi is also known as stuffed eggplant.

RCI-VG.005.0079.001

Imam Baildi I

Baked eggplants with tomatoes, onions and garlic Imam Baildi

RCI-RC.001.0096.001

Indian Almond Rice

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RCI-SP.002.0117.001

Indian Spiced Cauliflower Soup

A really flavourful spicy soup. Enjoy.

RCI-SP.006.0040.001

Indian Spiced Chilled Tomato Soup

Wonderfully aromatic, cardamom adds a distinct and delicious Indian flavor to this tasty soup, which is also good served warm in cooler months.

RCI-MT.004.0490.001

Indonesian Chicken

When I found the recipe, it was called Indonesian Chicken, and, not being Indonesian or knowing anyone from Indonesia, I can neither confirm nor deny that this is, indeed, Indonesian Chicken.

RCI-VG.001.0314.001

Insalata Caprese

This recipe came from an estate sale. I obtained it when I purchased the family collection from the Cabrera Estate in Malakoff, Texas in 1986.

RCI-SP.004.0180.001

Irish Shepherd's Pie

One of the most famous Irish dishes, Shepherd's Pie is traditionally made from leftover mutton, minced and topped with mashed Potato. However, pre-cooked minced (or ground) Beef can be used.

RCI-SW.004.0031.001

Island Ceviche Tacos

Island Ceviche Tacos from the Recidemia collection

RCI-RC.006.0072.001

Israeli Couscous with Coriander and Baby Turnips

Israeli Couscous with Coriander and Baby Turnips from the Recidemia collection

RCI-RC.006.0073.001

Israeli Couscous with Vegetables

Israeli Couscous with Vegetables from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.002.0118.001

Israeli Pumpkin Soup

Serve hot to 6 to 8 people.

RCI-VG.001.0323.001

Israeli Vegetable Salad

Serves approximately 4.

RCI-SW.001.0037.001

Istanbul Zucchini Sandwich

Istanbul Zucchini Sandwich from the Recidemia collection

RCI-MT.003.0046.001

Italian Braised Shortribs

Shortribs cooked in red wine with classic Italian herbs makes them flavorful, moist, and fork tender.

RCI-SP.003.0344.001

Italian Chicken Soup

This satisfying soup gets its Italian flair from fennel, thyme, basil and orzo pasta. If you don't start with a low-sodium or sodium-free stock, advises our Test Kitchen stay, you might want to decrease the amount of salt called for in the recipe.

RCI-SN.001.0231.001

Italian Dipping Oil

I love the dipping oil served at my two favorite Italian restaurants. Both restaurants vary slightly in ingredients. Here is my version that brings the best of both worlds. Serve with warm bread fresh out of the oven and enjoy!

RCI-VG.004.0707.001

Italian Florentine Casserole

Makes 8 servings.

RCI-ND.001.0045.001

Italian Garlic Shrimp

Italian Garlic Shrimp from the Recidemia collection

RCI-RC.002.0014.001

Italian Rice with Wild Mushrooms

Italian Rice with Wild Mushrooms

RCI-VG.004.0711.001

Italian Roasted Vegetables

This recipe came from an estate sale. I obtained it when I purchased the family collection from the Henson Estate in Dallas, Texas in 1982.

RCI-MT.004.0501.001

Italian Skillet Chicken

Makes 4 servings.

RCI-VG.005.0082.001

Italian Stuffed Peppers

Italian Stuffed Peppers from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.001.0325.001

Italo and Sri Lankan Salad

Italo and Sri Lankan Salad from the Recidemia collection

RCI-MT.003.0047.001

Jacob's ladder (beef with bones)

Jacob's ladder (beef with bones) from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.002.0067.001

Jadi's Healthy Potato Salad

Jadi's Healthy Potato Salad from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.003.0353.001

Jamaican Pumpkin-Coconut Soup

Very spicy and hot soup.

RCI-VG.004.0716.001

Jani me Fasul

White bean casserole soup

RCI-VG.005.0084.001

Jerinkitz Peppers

Jerinkitz Peppers from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SF.001.0208.001

Jerk Grilled Salmon

Salmon fillets are marinated in jerk spices, such as Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme, and ginger.

RCI-SF.002.0152.001

Jersey Bay Scallops with Rice

Makes 4 servings.

RCI-MT.002.0162.001

Jing Do Pork

This recipe is a cousin to the popular sweet and sour pork dish. It originates from Bejing and derives its name from that city (Jing Do - "capital city"). I use extra ight olive oil so that it does not add taste to the dish.

RCI-SW.003.0046.001

Jordanian Chicken Wraps

The proportions of spices are approximate... it's a rich yellow with red speckled look and aromatic smell that you should go for. You can eat them hot, or better, at just above room temperature. This is not a quick recipe.

RCI-VG.004.0723.001

Jota

Jota, a sturdy bean soup with sauerkraut from Trieste. " La Jota, piatto tipico triestino, tastes the next day even better.

RCI-SN.003.0145.001

Kabab barg

This kebab is prepared by marinating the meat overnight, and grilling it on open fire. It is usually served with Polo(white rice) or Naan (bread).

RCI-VG.004.0728.001

Kala Channa

Contributed by Pressurecookerrecipes Y-Group

RCI-MT.003.0048.001

Kalbi Kui

Kalbi Kui Yield: 16 servings

RCI-VG.001.0332.001

Kale Salad

The key to this salad is finely chopping the kale leaves. The finer they are, the more they will absorb the dressing and the easier they will be to eat. This salad is a great opportunity to practice good knife skills.

RCI-VG.001.0333.001

Kålsalat

Coleslaw - Serves 6 Coleslaw - Kålsalat

RCI-MT.003.0049.001

Kangaroo Fillet

right|Kangaroo fillet

RCI-SP.003.0358.001

Kapunata

A Maltese version of Ratatouille made from tomatoes, capers, aubergines and green peppers which goes well with grilled fish. This is a summer dish and can be eaten hot or cold.

RCI-VG.002.0071.001

Kartoffelsalat I

German potato salad From "Catsrecipes Y-Group" Source: Biergarten, Germany, Epcot Center Makes 3 cups

RCI-VG.002.0072.001

Kartoffelsalat III

This recipe came from an estate sale. I obtained it when I purchased the family collection from the Jacobs Estate in Mabank, Texas in 1987.

RCI-MT.004.0517.001

Kebda b'l-bsel

Algerian Chicken Liver Pate

Kofta
RCI-MT.005.0141.001

Kofta

These are the Turkish meatballs, delicious little meat balls or patties. You can make them with beef, but lamb is traditional and makes them very special.

RCI-SP.003.0363.001

Kofta with Apricot Sauce

Kofta with Apricot Sauce from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.004.0754.001

Koshery

This is true Egyptian comfort food at its best. Very easy to make and it's cheap!