How to use olive oil correctly?

Olive oil is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen, but many people underestimate its full potential. Should it be used for frying? Poured over hot dishes? How best to store it? In this guide, you'll find the answers so you can get the most out of your olive oil – both in terms of taste and nutrition.

1. Which olive oil should you use?

Before we dive into its uses, it’s important to understand that not all olive oils are created equal. Extra virgin olive oil is the best quality – cold-pressed, unrefined, and full of flavor and nutrients. It should be used for everything from dressings and marinades to light frying and as a finishing touch to hot dishes.

Read more about how to choose the best olive oil here.

2. Can you fry in olive oil?

Yes! The old myth that you can't fry in olive oil has been debunked time and time again. Extra virgin olive oil has a higher smoke point (160-190°C) than many people think, and it works great for sautéing, light frying and baking. However, you should avoid overheating the oil, as it loses some of its flavor and nutritional value at too high a temperature.

3. Use olive oil as a flavor enhancer

Extra virgin olive oil isn't just a source of fat – it's a flavor enhancer. Use it as a finishing touch on:

• Fresh salads and grilled vegetables
• Pastas and risottos
• Grilled fish or meat
• The soup before serving
• Homemade bread with a little salt

Olive oil can elevate a dish from ordinary to extraordinary with just a few drops.

4. How to store your olive oil correctly

To preserve flavor and quality, store your olive oil:

• In a dark and cool place – away from direct sunlight
• In a tightly closed container – preferably a dark glass bottle or a bag-in-box
• At a stable temperature – not too close to the stove or refrigerator

Olive oil keeps best within 12-18 months of pressing, but it should be used quickly after opening to avoid oxidation.

5. Use olive oil creatively

Olive oil isn't just for cooking. It can also be used for:

• Hand and skin care – a natural moisturizing alternative
• Baking – as a substitute for butter or margarine
• Homemade aioli or pesto

The possibilities are endless – and the better quality the oil, the more versatile it is in your kitchen.

Taste the difference

Using olive oil correctly is not just about technique – it's about appreciating the raw material. With a quality oil like CARDENAU Extra Virgin Olive Oil, you get an olive oil that is not just an ingredient, but an essential part of your cooking.

Understand why some olive oils taste better than others.

Want to try it yourself?

Buy your olive oil here