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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.004.1131.001

Rice and Lentil Salad

The lentil is a staple food throughout the Middle East. Lentils provide protein and can be substituted for meat.

RCI-SW.001.0072.001

Rice and Roast Beef Sandwiches

Makes 8 servings

RCI-VG.005.0183.001

Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato

Makes 4 servings

RCI-RC.001.0176.001

Rice in Fish Broth-Sayyadieh

Rice in Fish Broth-Sayyadieh from the Recidemia collection

RCI-RC.001.0178.001

Rice Pilaf with Golden Vermicelli

Rice Pilaf with Golden Vermicelli from the Recidemia collection

RCI-RC.004.0246.001

Rice Primavera Salad

Rice Primavera Salad from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.003.0558.001

Rice Soup with Red Cabbage

This recipe came from an estate sale. I obtained it when I purchased the family collection from the Wadley Estate in Allen, Texas in 1990.

RCI-RC.004.0252.001

RICE TABBOULEH

Makes 6 servings.

RCI-RC.001.0180.001

Rice with Chicken Spanish-style

This is a good way to get vegetables into the meal plan. Serve with a mixed green salad and some whole wheat bread.

RCI-RC.001.0182.001

Rice with Peas

This recipe came from an estate sale. I obtained it when I purchased the family collection from the Henry Estate in Dallas, Texas in 1980.

RCI-ND.002.0114.001

Rigatoni pasta with Ricotta in Tomato Cream Sauce

Pasta with Ricotta cheese in a tomato cream sauce topped with Parmesan cheese and parsley.

RCI-RC.002.0025.001

Risotto al Gorgonzola

Risotto al Gorgonzola

RCI-RC.002.0030.001

Risotto with Green Peas

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RCI-RC.002.0031.001

Risotto with Sea Fruit

Serves 4.

RCI-RC.006.0110.001

Risu chi Fasuoli e Cruzziteddi

Rice with beans and dry chestnuts Traditionally this dish is made with chestnuts, rice a little “astrattu”, super concentrated tomato paste, olive oil, onion and anchovies. It is an old recipe that was prepared in the province of Palermo.

RCI-MT.001.0215.001

Roast Beef Round with Au Jus

Slow roasting makes normally tough eye of round tender.

Roast Butternut, Biltong and Brown Rice Salad
RCI-RC.006.0111.001

Roast Butternut, Biltong and Brown Rice Salad

Roast Butternut, Biltong and Brown Rice Salad from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.004.1142.001

Roasted Asparagus with Feta

Roasted Asparagus with Feta from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.004.1143.001

Roasted Asparagus with Rosemary Oil

This recipe comes from an Estate Sale and were obtained when The Family Collection from The Wetzel Estate in Plano, Texas was purchased in 1982.

RCI-SP.002.0180.001

Roasted Avocado Soup

Roasted Avocado Soup from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.001.0481.001

Roasted Baby Beet and Spinach Salad

Original recipe Serves 4 – 6

RCI-SN.003.0217.001

Roasted Balsamic Beet Brushetta

Roasted Balsamic Beet Brushetta from the Recidemia collection

RCI-ND.002.0116.001

Roasted Butternut Squash Pastina served in a Pumpkin

Courtesy Michael Chiarello Show: Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello Episode: Pumpkin Picking Party From "Catsrecipes Y-Group" Prep Time: 25 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Yield: 2 cups, puréed

RCI-VG.004.1144.001

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SF.001.0298.001

Roasted Catfish Basquaise

A Catfish recipe.

RCI-SF.001.0299.001

Roasted Chilean Sea Bass with Seared Tomatoes and Leeks

300px| Roasted Chilean Sea Bass with Seared Tomatoes and Leeks This recipe yields 4 servings.

RCI-VG.001.0483.001

Roasted Eggplant, Tomato and Arugula Salad

Roasted Eggplant, Tomato and Arugula from the Public Health Cookbook by the Seattle & King County Department of Public Health—original source of recipe, public domain government resource Serves: 4

RCI-VG.004.1147.001

Roasted Fennel

Roasted Fennel from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SF.001.0300.001

Roasted Fish with Artichokes

Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group * Source: Prevention

RCI-VG.004.1148.001

Roasted Garlic

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RCI-ND.002.0117.001

Roasted Garlic Avocado Pasta

Roasted Garlic Avocado Pasta from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.002.0141.001

Roasted Garlic Potatoes

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RCI-MT.003.0077.001

Roasted Kangaroo Leg

This is roasted kangaroo meat, from Australia. In Australia it is not uncommon to eat the marsupial kangaroo. Most good restaurants and hotels will often have this meat on their menu. It can be served in many ways.

RCI-VG.002.0142.001

Roasted Lemon Potatoes

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RCI-VG.004.1150.001

Roasted Onions

Roasted Onions from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SW.003.0063.001

Roasted Pepper and Hummus Wrap

A quick, easy and yet still healthful snack. Use organic peppers, if possible. but feel free to use sliced pita breads and stuff with extra vegetables if you'd like.

RCI-VG.002.0143.001

Roasted Peruvian Potatoes

Roasted Peruvian Potatoes

RCI-MT.002.0234.001

Roasted Pork Loin with Rosemary

Original recipe Makes 6 servings

RCI-VG.002.0144.001

Roasted Potatoes

Roasted Potatoes from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.002.0145.001

Roasted Potatoes with Bacon and Rosemary

Purchased from the O'Banion Estate in Mesquite, Texas in 1984. Dated 1968. Another tried and true recipe that is a regular in my house of potato lovers.

RCI-SN.001.0322.001

Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Dip

I got tired of paying $$$ for this at a local market, so I set out to make my own.

RCI-MT.001.0219.001

Roasted Red Pepper Wraps

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RCI-VG.002.0146.001

Roasted Redskin Potatoes

Roasted Redskin Potatoes from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.002.0147.001

Roasted Root Vegetables

Roasted Root Vegetables from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SF.001.0301.001

Roasted Salmon with Shallot Grapefruit Sauce

Remember grapefruit can interfere with certain medications!

RCI-VG.004.1154.001

Roasted Squash with Potatoes and Garlic

Roasted Squash with Potatoes and Garlic from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SN.001.0325.001

Roasted Sweet Onion Dip

Roasted Sweet Onion Dip from the Public Health Cookbook by the Seattle & King County Department of Public Health—original source of recipe, licensed in the public domain Cook Time: About 20 minutes Serves: 8

RCI-ND.002.0119.001

Roasted Vegetable Lasagna

Roasted Vegetable Lasagna from the Recidemia collection

RCI-ND.001.0095.001

Roasted Vegetable Pasta

This is a tried and true favorite. You can add whatever vegetables you prefer.

RCI-SP.002.0181.001

Roasted Vegetable Soup

Roasted Vegetable Soup A medley of vegetables mellowed with cream makes a pleasing first course for a holiday dinner. This soup can be made up to two days ahead. If it thickens too much, simply add a little extra chicken broth.