Olive Oil Simplified: How to Choose Fresh, Flavorful, and Real Extra Virgin Olive Oil

If you've ever stood in the cooking oil aisle feeling overwhelmed by all those olive oil bottles, you're not alone. Between the fancy labels and the "extra virgin" claims, it's easy to just grab one and hope for the best.

How to Choose a Good Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Go for extra virgin --- cold-pressed and naturally high in antioxidants.

• Check for a harvest date --- the fresher the better.

• Choose dark glass or tins --- light is the enemy of olive oil.

• Look for single-origin (Italy, Greece, California, etc.)

• Store your olive oil in a cool, dark place, and use it within a few months once opened.

A Few Quality, Flavorful Oils

These are widely available, well-reviewed, and known for their freshness and purity:

• California Olive Ranch --- smooth and balanced for everyday use.

• Bellucci Italian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil --- organic, traceable, and full-bodied with a clean, peppery finish.

• Lucini Italia Premium Select --- rich and flavorful, and versatile.

• Cobram Estate California Select --- peppery and fresh.

• Graza "Drizzle" --- bright and (you've guessed it) ideal for drizzling over finished dishes.

• Kirkland Organic EVOO --- affordable, reliable, and organic.

• Colavita Premium Selection --- mild and consistent.

What About Store Brand Olive Oils?

Brands like Trader Joe's and Whole Foods '365' line aren't artisan oils, but they can be solid, budget-friendly options. Just check for a dark bottle, a recent harvest date, and single-origin when you buy.

Extra virgin olive oil is one of those simple, real-food staples that make everyday cooking feel special. I drizzle it over salads and roasted veggies, and swirl it on top of soup. (I actually think you can add a drop to anything!) It's simple, healthy, natural, and a little bit magical!

Until next time,

Sally

References & Resources

UC Davis Olive Center — Evaluation of Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Sold in California

Consumer Reports — How to Choose a Good Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Food & Wine — The Best Olive Oils, According to Chefs and Testers

The Kitchn — The Best Olive Oil at Trader Joe’s, According to the Internet

Ledger Insights — Olive Oil Traced via Blockchain at Whole Foods Market

NYIOOC Guide — Bellucci Awards in World’s Largest Olive Oil Competition