How to Know Which Olive Oil to Use

Olives are crushed and then pressed to make olive oil. There are several types of olive oil that can be used in different ways. These are extra virgin, pure or virgin, and light olive oil. Read on to find the best use for each of these.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• olive oil
• good taste buds

1. 

   Extra virgin olive oil is considered to be the top of the line product. Generally, it is not used for cooking. Use it to add flavor to your salads, sauteed vegetables and also use in place of butter for your rolls, etc. The flavor is more pronounced in the darker colored extra virgin oil. It also has the most antioxidant benefits.

2. 

   The virgin or pure virgin olive oil is lighter in color. The flavor is not as enhanced. This brand is better used for low to medium heat cooking, such as frying.

3. 

   The light olive oil is usually used by people who are looking for an even less enhanced taste. The caloric content is still the same. This light oil can be used for cooking on high heat.

Tips & Warnings

• Olive oil contains antioxidant benefits which are very helpful in keeping the arteries clear.
• Use in place of butter.
• To keep olive oil fresh store it in the refrigerator or keep it in a cool dark place.

[Cherrie]

on 1/7/2009 Good article. We had different approaches to this important topic. Especially important is to replace butter.

[Wordart]

on 12/11/2008 I use extra virgin olive oil, but I didn't know it's not meant to cook with. Thanks for telling me so.

[FBPoems]

on 11/29/2008 Thanks for the enlightenment! Superb Article, great tips! You share such rich articles that we need info on and about. You really know a lots of How To's in life! Thanks for sharing with us!

[lydiabily]

on 11/16/2008 These are good cooking tips, and I like your idea of using olive oil instead of butter!

[TheMoreYouKnow]

on 11/9/2008 I never knew any of this information! wow.. thanks for sharing! 5ive *tars.