If you’re looking for a high-quality cooking oil that not only adds flavor to your dishes but also offers numerous health benefits, then look no further than olive oil. Olive oil has been used for centuries for its health properties and culinary versatility. But with so many options available on the market, how do you choose the best olive oil to cook with?
Before you buy any olive oil, there are a few factors you should consider. First, consider the type of olive oil. Extra-virgin olive oil has a fruity flavor profile and is best used in dressings or drizzled over dishes like pasta or vegetables. It is not recommended for high-heat cooking due to its low smoke point. If you’re looking for an olive oil to cook with, go for a light olive oil or pure olive oil that has a higher smoke point and neutral flavor profile. Additionally, look for olive oils with certification that guarantee the quality of the product.
How do you know if you’re buying the best olive oil to cook with? Here are a few questions to consider. Is the olive oil cold-pressed to retain the most nutrients? Does it come in a dark bottle to prevent oxidation? Is it a single-source olive oil or a blend of different olive oils? Does the labeling have clear information about the country of origin and the harvest date? By answering these questions, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best olive oil to cook with that meets your needs and preferences.
10 Best Olive Oil To Cook With
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Ideal for cooking, baking, and dressing salads with its rich flavor and high smoke point.
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2
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The product is ideal for cooking and baking purposes to prevent food from sticking to the surface or pan.
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3
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Ideal for cooking, sauteing, grilling, and dressing salads with an all-natural cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil spray.
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4
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PAM Olive Oil Cooking Spray is ideal for easily adding a non-stick coating to cooking surfaces and reducing added fats/oils.
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5
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Ideal for enhancing the flavor of food with the combination of garlic and extra virgin olive oil.
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6
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This product is ideal as a flavorful and versatile topping or dipping oil for dishes such as salad, vegetables, pasta, and bread.
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7
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Ideal for heart-healthy cooking, salad dressings, pasta sauces, grilling, and any recipe that requires a high-quality olive oil.
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8
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Ideal for roasting and sautéing, naturally gluten-free, non-allergenic, and non-GMO.
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9
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Ideal for cooking and adding flavor to dishes with a combination of sunflower and extra virgin olive oil.
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10
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Ideal for cooking, baking, and as a healthy oil option. Suitable for those following a Whole30, Keto or Vegan diet.
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1. Kevala Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 1 Gallon, 128 Fl Oz
Kevala Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the perfect addition to any kitchen. This premium quality oil is obtained from cold pressing organic olives grown in Tunisia, ensuring that it is unrefined and of the highest quality.
Kevala Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is verified by the Non-GMO project, and is free from hexane, solvents, and additives, making it an incredibly healthy oil for cooking with. Its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it a great choice for anyone looking for a healthy alternative to other oils.
This oil has a smoke point that makes it perfect for cooking at low heat, and it has a fruity flavor and sweet aroma that will enhance the taste of any dish. It is ideal for drizzling over salads as a dressing, or for sautéing vegetables, meats, and other foods.
Kevala Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is bottled in the USA in a BPA-free plastic jug, ensuring that it is safe and easy to use. This oil is also gluten-free and kosher, making it a great choice for anyone with specific dietary needs.
2. Pam Olive Oil Cooking Spray, 5 Ounce (3 Pack)
Introducing the All Natural PAM Olive Oil, a game-changer in the world of cooking! With its outstanding no-stick performance, this product is a must-have in every kitchen. Unlike other cooking sprays, this one contains only natural ingredients, making it a healthier option for those who are conscious about their diet.
But that's not all; this spray also serves as a tasty and low-fat alternative to cooking with olive oil. Its unique formula ensures that the food is cooked to perfection without sticking to the pan. And for those who prefer a lighter flavor, you can even spray it on your pasta after cooking to add a deliciously light-tasting flavor to your favorite pasta dish.
Using olive oil for cooking has never been so easy! With the All Natural PAM Olive Oil, you can now enjoy the health benefits of olive oil without worrying about the excess fat. This product is perfect for those who are looking for a healthier lifestyle but don't want to compromise on taste.
This cooking spray is also certified Kosher, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of quality and purity. So, if you're looking for a reliable and trustworthy cooking spray that delivers exceptional results every time, look no further than All Natural PAM Olive Oil. Try it today and experience the difference for yourself!
3. Artisanal Olive Oil Spray – Great For All Cooking!
La Tourangelle Artisan Cooking Sprays offer an easy and chemical-free way to add high-quality oil to your meals. Their 100% Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is cold-pressed to perfection, resulting in a well-balanced and intense flavor with hints of freshly cut grass, almond, and fresh olive leaves, and a bright peppery finish. This oil is perfect for daily cooking, creating distinctive dishes, and adding flavor to salads, grilled meat, pasta, or a cheese plate.
La Tourangelle is dedicated to producing natural, sustainable, and artisanal oils that help elevate your meals to gourmet status. Their oils are perfect for everyone, from professional chefs to novice cooks and foodies. They strive to be the best artisanal oil producer, and their products are carefully crafted to bring you the best flavors from around the world.
With La Tourangelle, your kitchen can become an art studio, where you can create delicious and memorable moments around the table. Their AvoCoco butter substitute and Pesto Oil are just a few examples of the many oils and flavors they offer. Discover your culinary creativity with La Tourangelle oils.
In addition to providing high-quality oils, La Tourangelle also ensures that their products are allergen-free. Their Extra Virgin Olive Oil is abalone-free, making it a safe choice for everyone to enjoy. Trust La Tourangelle to bring you the best oils and flavors that are natural, sustainable, and delicious.
4. Pam Olive Oil Cooking Spray, 5 Oz (2 Pack)
PAM Olive Oil offers a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional olive oil cooking. With its low-fat content, this spray is perfect for those who are health-conscious but don't want to sacrifice taste.
What sets PAM Olive Oil apart from other cooking sprays is its unbeatable no-stick performance. No more struggling to remove your food from the pan or worrying about it sticking and burning. With PAM Olive Oil, your food will effortlessly glide right off the pan, making clean-up a breeze.
Cooking with olive oil has never been so easy thanks to PAM's convenient spray bottle. Simply apply a few sprays to your pan before cooking, and you're good to go. No more measuring out the perfect amount of oil or worrying about adding too much.
In addition to its no-stick performance and convenience, PAM Olive Oil is also versatile. Use it for pan-frying, sautéing, or baking your favorite recipes. Its neutral flavor won't overpower your dishes, allowing your ingredients to shine.
PAM Olive Oil is made with high-quality ingredients and is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. It is also non-GMO and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
5. Grand'aroma Garlic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 8.5-Ounce Bottles (Pack Of 3)
Mantova presents a pack of three bottles of its Grand'Aroma Garlic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, each 8.5 ounces in size. The oil is made in Italy, using 100% natural, non-GMO, and trans fat-free ingredients, with no added sugar, sodium, or gluten. It is also cholesterol-free, making it a healthy choice for those who want to follow a nutritious diet.
This extra virgin olive oil is cold-pressed, infused with garlic extract and has a delicate mellow body. The garlic infusion adds a fresh, zesty taste that will brighten up a variety of dishes like pasta, pizza, roasted chicken, salads, risotto, bruschetta, and fresh cheeses.
The oil comes in glass bottles that are designed to protect the oil's quality, while also being environmentally sustainable. The non-drip pour spout and handle grip make it easy and convenient to use. The bottles are also easy to handle, so you can transform your favorite recipes easily and quickly without any mess.
Mantova Extra Virgin Olive Oil infused with garlic is rich in heart-healthy fatty acids and antioxidants, making it a perfect addition to any healthy lifestyle. You can substitute this flavored oil for plain oil in any dish, drizzle it over chicken, fish or eggs to add instant Italian taste, and even use it to pop popcorn for a unique and delicious flavor.
Apart from the Garlic flavor, Mantova offers a variety of Italy's favorite flavors in its Grand'Aroma Extra Virgin Olive Oil, including Basil, Tuscan Herbs, Lemon, Rosemary, Truffle, Picante, Pizza, Grillata, and Smoked.
6. Garlic Evoo: Italian-Made Topping & Dip (2-Pack)
Introducing a premium quality olive oil that is infused with natural garlic extract – the perfect addition to any Italian dish! This cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil is 100% natural, ensuring that you are consuming only the finest quality ingredients.
One of the standout features of this olive oil is its smooth flavor profile, which is complemented by a delicate and mellow body. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone who is looking for an authentic Italian taste that is not overpowering or too intense.
Another great advantage of this oil is that it maintains its integrity up to medium heat. This means that you can use it to pan fry or saute chicken, fish or eggs, without worrying about it breaking down or losing its flavor.
In addition to being a great cooking oil, this olive oil is also perfect for dipping. Simply pour it over some fresh Italian bread for a delicious and authentic bread dipping experience. It is also ideal for making garlic bread or garlic mashed potatoes, adding instant authentic Italian flavor to any dish.
Whether you are a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this garlic-infused olive oil is a must-have ingredient for anyone who loves Italian cuisine. So, why not add it to your pantry today and experience the authentic taste of Italy in your own home?
7. Mantova's Healthy Italian Oil Spray: Drip, Spray, Stream.
Introducing the Mantova Extra Virgin Olive Oil Spray bottle, a product that offers a convenient and healthy way to enjoy 100% natural Italian EVOO. Made in Italy, this olive oil dispenser is designed to preserve the genuine qualities of the oil and allows you to spray just the right amount for your dish.
The Italian olive oil sprays are non-GMO and heart-healthy, boasting powerful antioxidants and monounsaturated fatty acids. The “bag in bottle” system helps you spray lightly and evenly without the use of any propellants, aerosols, or additives, making it a smart and eco-friendly choice.
This product is not only great for everyday use with eggs, waffle irons, and grilled sandwiches, it is also perfect for baking muffins, cakes, and breads. You can even spray it onto finished foods for a beautiful look and a great taste.
Mantova offers Extra Virgin Oil Sprays in several exciting flavors for adding to snack foods, salad dressings, pasta salads, pasta sauces, breads, vegetables, and meats. The range includes Lemon, Garlic, Chili, Black Truffle, White Truffle, Ginger, Orange & Black Pepper, and Turmeric, allowing for a variety of flavors to elevate your dishes.
8. Pompeian Mild Olive Oil – Perfect For Cooking
The Olive Oil People brings to you their expertly crafted Mild Taste Olive Oil made from olives nurtured and grown by their family of farmers. This olive oil boasts of a mild flavor that is perfect for any meal that begins with a sauté and ends with a drizzle. Its flavor profile makes it an ideal choice for roasting and sautéing your favorite foods.
Since 1906, The Olive Oil People have been committed to offering high-quality olive oil products. Their Mild Taste Olive Oil is 100% farmer crafted, ensuring that each bottle you get is of premium quality.
Pompeian Mild Taste Olive Oil is a great substitute for butter, margarine, and vegetable oil. This healthy swap won't compromise the taste of your favorite dishes. It is perfect for those who want to make a healthy choice without sacrificing flavor.
Pompeian Mild Taste Olive Oil is a premium quality product that is certified gluten-free and non-allergenic. It is also kosher-certified and verified by the Non-GMO Project. The North American Olive Oil Association (NAOOA) has certified its authenticity, so you can be assured that you are getting a high-quality product.
9. Iberia Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Sunflower Oil, 17 Fl Oz
Introducing a premium blend of cooking oil that combines the best of both worlds – 80% Sunflower Oil and 20% Extra Virgin Olive Oil. This all-purpose cooking oil is designed to cater to all your culinary needs. Its unique composition makes it highly resistant to high temperatures, and it can be used for frying with a flavor. It is also versatile enough to be used for baking, grilling, on salads, for making sauces or blending into a vinaigrette or marinade.
This blend is ideal for pan-coating, crispy frying, and non-stick sautéing. With its high smoke point, it is perfect for all your cooking needs. The rich texture of the oil is perfect for adding flavor and depth to your dishes.
This cooking oil is a "must-have" in your pantry. It combines the high-heat properties of sunflower oil with the rich flavor of extra virgin olive oil. It is a perfect blend that will add an extra layer of flavor to your dishes.
This premium blend of cooking oil is cholesterol and carbohydrate-free, making it a healthy option for your cooking needs. It works well with salad, fish, meats, and cheeses.
10. Cali Blend Evoo: Cook, Bake, Enjoy!
The award-winning California Olive Ranch Global Blend Medium Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is a delightful blend of artfully balanced and carefully selected olives from our California farmers and grower partners in Argentina, Chile, and Portugal. With its well-rounded taste notes of fresh herbs, fruit, and green grass, this EVOO is perfect for every day cooking, whether for sweet or savory dishes. Sauté, roast, and bake with confidence knowing that this extra virgin olive oil is verified non-GMO by the Non-GMO Project, certified kosher by Orthodox Union, certified paleo, keto verified, and vegan friendly.
Unlike other “light” or “pure” olive oils that are made using excessive heat or chemicals, our extra virgin olive oil is made from cold-pressed olives to extract their natural oils. We never use high heat or solvents in our EVOO, ensuring that you get high-quality EVOO with all its nutritional benefits.
At California Olive Ranch, all our oils are certified "Extra Virgin" by Applied Sensory, passing both rigid chemical and sensory evaluations. We take pride in the quality of our extra virgin olive oil, which is why we recommend storing it in a dark, cool place to keep it fresh. Our EVOO is packaged in dark green bottles to help protect its integrity and life.
Best Olive Oil To Cook With FAQs
Are there any specific brands of olive oil that are best for cooking?
When it comes to cooking, the quality of olive oil you use can make a significant difference in the taste and healthfulness of your dishes. While there are many brands of olive oil available in the market, not all are created equal, and some are better suited for cooking than others.
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is considered the best quality olive oil, but it has a lower smoke point than other types of olive oil. This means it can start to smoke and burn at high temperatures, which can negatively affect the flavor and nutritional profile of your food.
For cooking, it's best to use a more refined olive oil with a higher smoke point, such as pure or light olive oil. Some popular brands that offer high-quality olive oil for cooking include California Olive Ranch, Colavita, Pompeian, and Bertolli.
Ultimately, the best brand of olive oil for cooking will depend on your personal preferences and cooking needs. It's essential to choose a brand that is high in quality, has a high smoke point, and fits within your budget.
Can I use flavored olive oils for cooking?
Yes, you can use flavored olive oils for cooking. Flavored olive oils are a delicious way to add extra flavor to your dishes. They are made by infusing high-quality olive oil with various herbs, spices, or fruits. Flavors such as garlic, basil, lemon, rosemary, and chili are commonly used.
When using flavored olive oils for cooking, it is important to consider the smoke point of the oil. Smoke point is the temperature at which the oil starts to smoke and break down, leading to the production of harmful compounds. Flavored olive oils typically have a lower smoke point than regular olive oil, so it's important to use them at lower temperatures and avoid high-heat cooking methods such as frying.
Flavored olive oils are best used for dressings, marinades, or as a finishing oil to add flavor to the final dish. They are not recommended for deep frying or sautéing at high temperatures. Always check the label to ensure that the oil is suitable for cooking and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
How do I choose the best olive oil for cooking?
Choosing the best olive oil for cooking can be a daunting task, as there are many options available in the market. However, to make the right decision, you need to consider a few factors.
Firstly, look for extra-virgin olive oil, which is made from pure, cold-pressed olives and is the highest quality available. It is best for raw applications like salads, dressings, and dipping. For cooking, you can use regular olive oil or light olive oil, which has a higher smoke point, making it ideal for frying, sautéing, or baking.
Secondly, check the label for the country of origin, harvest date, and the variety of the olives used. The fresher the oil, the better the quality, so look for a harvest date that is within the last 18 months. Also, different varieties of olives have different flavors, so choose one that complements the dish you are making.
Lastly, consider the price. High-quality olive oil can be expensive, but it is worth the investment. Avoid buying cheap olive oils as they may be blended with other oils and have lower quality.
In conclusion, choosing the best olive oil for cooking requires considering the quality, freshness, variety, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you can make an informed decision and elevate the taste of your dishes.
How should I store my olive oil to maintain its quality for cooking?
To maintain the quality of olive oil for cooking, it is essential to store it properly. Olive oil can turn rancid due to exposure to air, light, and heat. Therefore, it is recommended to store olive oil in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A pantry or cupboard away from the stove or oven is an ideal location to store olive oil.
It is also essential to keep the olive oil in a tightly sealed container to prevent air from getting inside. Dark-colored glass bottles or stainless steel containers are best for storing olive oil. Plastic containers should be avoided as they can react with the oil and degrade its quality.
It is recommended to use olive oil within six months of opening the bottle to ensure its freshness and quality. Refrigeration is not necessary, but if the oil is exposed to high temperatures, it can be stored in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life. However, it is important to note that refrigerated olive oil may become cloudy and thick, but this does not affect its quality or flavor.
By following these storage guidelines, you can ensure that your olive oil stays fresh and maintains its quality for cooking.
Is it safe to use extra-virgin olive oil for cooking?
Yes, it is safe to use extra-virgin olive oil for cooking. In fact, it is one of the healthiest oils you can use for cooking due to its high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants. However, it is important to use it properly. Extra-virgin olive oil has a low smoke point, which means it can break down and become toxic when heated to high temperatures. Therefore, it is best to use it for low to medium heat cooking, such as sautéing or baking. If you need to cook at high temperatures, it is recommended to use an oil with a higher smoke point, such as canola oil or grapeseed oil. It is also important to store extra-virgin olive oil properly, in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat, to maintain its quality and freshness.
What are some good recipes that use olive oil for cooking?
Olive oil is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are some good recipes that use olive oil for cooking:
1. Roasted Vegetables: Toss vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until they are tender and golden brown.
2. Salad Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and honey to make a simple and delicious salad dressing.
3. Grilled Chicken: Marinate chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, and then grill them until cooked through.
4. Pasta: Cook pasta and toss it with olive oil, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese for a simple and flavorful meal.
5. Hummus: Blend chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic in a food processor to make a creamy and delicious hummus.
These are just a few examples of the many ways you can use olive oil in your cooking. It's a healthy and flavorful ingredient that can enhance the flavor of many dishes.
What are the best types of olive oil to use for cooking?
When it comes to cooking with olive oil, choosing the right type can make all the difference in both flavor and health benefits. The most commonly used olive oils for cooking are extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), virgin olive oil, and refined olive oil.
Extra-virgin olive oil is the highest quality and purest form of olive oil, with a fruity and slightly bitter taste. It is best used in low to medium heat cooking, such as sautéing or baking, to preserve its flavor and health benefits. Virgin olive oil, on the other hand, is also unrefined but has a milder taste and is suitable for higher heat cooking such as stir-frying or roasting.
Refined olive oil is a lower quality oil that is processed to remove impurities and has a lighter color and flavor. It is best used for high-heat cooking, such as frying, due to its high smoke point.
It is important to note that cooking with olive oil does not change its nutritional value, but it can change its taste and smoking point. Therefore, it is recommended to choose the appropriate type of olive oil based on the cooking method being used.
What are the health benefits of cooking with olive oil?
Cooking with olive oil has numerous health benefits. Olive oil is a rich source of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and prevent chronic diseases. One of the main health benefits of cooking with olive oil is its ability to lower the risk of heart disease. The MUFAs present in olive oil help reduce LDL or "bad" cholesterol levels and increase HDL or "good" cholesterol levels. Olive oil is also known to help in weight loss. It is a healthier alternative to other cooking oils as it contains fewer calories per serving and helps in making you feel full for longer.
Cooking with olive oil has also been linked to a lower risk of cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. The antioxidants present in olive oil help reduce oxidative stress and prevent cell damage, which can lead to the development of chronic diseases. Additionally, olive oil is known to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of developing inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.
Overall, cooking with olive oil is an excellent way to improve your health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. It is essential to choose high-quality olive oil and use it in moderation to reap the maximum health benefits.
What is the difference between regular olive oil and extra-virgin olive oil?
Regular olive oil and extra-virgin olive oil are two types of olive oil that have different characteristics and uses.
Extra-virgin olive oil is made from pure, cold-pressed olives, whereas regular olive oil is a blend, including both cold-pressed and processed oils. Extra-virgin olive oil is made from the first pressing of the olives and has no chemicals or solvents used in the extraction process. It is considered the highest quality olive oil and has a strong, fruity flavor and aroma.
On the other hand, regular olive oil is a blend of cold-pressed and processed oils. It is made by refining virgin olive oil, which removes impurities and neutralizes the strong flavor. It has a milder taste and can be used for cooking at higher temperatures.
Extra-virgin olive oil is best used in dishes where the flavor and aroma of the oil are important, such as salads, dips, and dressings. Regular olive oil is better suited for cooking, frying, and baking, as it has a higher smoke point and a more neutral flavor.
Overall, extra-virgin olive oil is a premium product that is more expensive than regular olive oil due to its superior quality and flavor.
What is the smoke point of different types of olive oil?
The smoke point of olive oil varies depending on its quality and type. Extra-virgin olive oil, which is made from pure, cold-pressed olives, has a lower smoke point of around 375°F (191°C). This means that it is not suitable for high-heat cooking methods such as frying or grilling as it can break down and produce harmful compounds at these temperatures.
On the other hand, refined olive oil, which has been processed and has fewer impurities, has a higher smoke point of around 465°F (240°C). This makes it more suitable for high-heat cooking methods.
Light olive oil, which is a refined oil that has been heavily processed, has the highest smoke point of around 468°F (242°C). However, it lacks the flavor and health benefits of extra-virgin olive oil.
It's important to note that using oil beyond its smoke point can not only produce harmful compounds but can also affect the flavor of the food. Therefore, it's crucial to choose the right type of olive oil for the cooking method to ensure optimal results.