When it comes to enhancing your everyday cooking, the quality of your ingredients matters, and one of the most impactful ingredients in any kitchen is quality olive oil. But with so many olive varietals and flavored olive oils available, how do you choose the right olive oil for your needs, and of course, budget? At The Olive Tap, we offer a diverse selection of high-quality olive oils, each suited for different culinary applications.

Here’s your guide to selecting the perfect olive oil to elevate your dishes.

Understanding Olive Oil Types - Watch Out for Lower Quality Olive Oils

Shopping for quality olive oil can be confusing as there are many distinct classes of olive oil. Unfortunately, you have to read the labels very carefully as there are little to no regulations on how the labeling can be presented on the bottle. If you want the true health benefits of olive oil, you need to buy 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oils and Flavored Olive Oils with the same, quality olive oil.

Acidity is key in classifying Olive Oils, it is a measure of the Free Fatty Acids in the oil, which are created when triglycerides breakdown during productions. The breakdown is caused by poor extraction of the fruit (olives) from the trees, poor quality fruit (over ripened) or delayed processing.

Olive oils can be broken down to many, more detailed sub-categories, however, we kept it simple at the three key categories.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO):

The highest quality olive oil, made from cold-pressed olives without heat or chemical processing or altering the oil in any way. The oil must be free of sensory defects and the Free fatty acid level is .8% or below. EVOO is rich in polyphenols, which have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The smoke point of 375-405 degrees fahrenheit. It is the richest tasting olive oil and has a robust, fruity “olive” flavor. Due to the lower smoke point, it is recommended for drizzling, bread dipping, vinaigrettes or finishing over cooked vegetables, meats and more! Cooking at higher temperatures will degrade the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

All of The Olive Tap 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oils and Flavored Oils are in the EVOO class, no exceptions!

Virgin Olive Oil:

Slightly lower in quality than EVOO, virgin olive oil is also made from cold-pressed olives, but it may have slight organoleptic defects and has a slightly higher acidity. This olive oil has a higher smoke point of 390-420 degrees Fahrenheit.

It is a more affordable olive oil and can still be used for vinaigrettes, marinades, and light cooking. You will find many virgin olive oils at your local grocery store. The Olive Tap does not carry this class of oil.

Refined Olive Oil or Pure Olive Oil:

Higher in acidity and a blend of refined olive oil and extra virgin olive oil. In order to achieve consumability the oil must undergo additional processing to neutralize any defects in taste, aroma and acidity. It does have a higher smoke point of 390-470 degrees Fahrenheit.

The refinement makes it suitable for frying and sautéing, however, it does not offer the many health benefits of EVOO. The Olive Tap does not carry this class of oil.

Light Olive Oil:

While often called a category of Olive Oils, it is not. Light Olive Oils refer to flavor, not the calorie content. This oil is highly refined, resulting in a milder taste and a higher smoke point. It can be ideal for baking or high-heat cooking, sans the health benefits. The Olive Tap does not carry this oil.

Flavored Olive Oils: Adding a Twist to Your Dishes

At The Olive Tap, we specialize in both 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oils and Flavored Olive Oils, which are infused with natural flavors including garlic, lemon, herbs and more. Both of these olive oils can add a new dimension to your cooking:

Extra Virgin Olive Oils

The Olive Tap evaluates and tastes each 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil not only for determining if the oil will meet our standards, but to develop reliable tasting notes for our online customers who do not have the opportunity to “taste it” online. In addition to our tasting notes, we also provide more detailed descriptions including usage ideas!

• Italiano 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The classic Italian flavor is perfect for salads, meats, pasta and sauces and especially seafood. It is excellent for bread dipping.
• Mia’s Blend 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Mia’s Blend is the perfect all-purpose salad and cooking oil. Great for bread dipping and drizzling over cooked meats, fish and vegetables.

Flavored Olive Oils

Our flavored oils are often the top sellers due to the exceptional taste profiles allowing for even more creativity in the kitchen along with the foundational health benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil. The methods of flavoring vary by olive oil type and have been indicated as appropriate.

• Garlic-Infused Olive Oil: Perfect for adding a rich, savory flavor to pasta, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats. At The Olive Tap we carry Roasted Garlic Olive Oil.
• Lemon-Infused Olive Oil: A bright, citrusy oil that pairs beautifully with seafood, salads, and chicken dishes. At The Olive Tap we carry both Meyer Lemon Olive Oil and Sorrento Lemon Olive Oil Fusion Crushed.
• Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Ideal for drizzling over pizza, mixing into salad dressings, or using as a marinade for meats. At The Olive Tap we carry both Tuscan Herb Olive Oil and Herbes de Provence Olive Oil.

Of course, there are even moreFlavor Infused Olive Oils available for nearly any flavor profile.

How to Choose the Right Olive Oil for Different Dishes

Choosing the right olive oil depends on your recipe and desired flavor impact. As mentioned above, The Olive Tap Online provides detailed descriptions and usage applications. If you are still not sure, please call us and talk to one of our “foodie Tasting Specialists!

• For Vinaigrettes, Dressings and Dipping: Go for high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Its full-bodied flavor enhances the freshness of salads and adds depth when paired with a good balsamic vinegar. Flavor Infused Olive Oils are also a favorite.
• For Cooking: If you’re frying, sautéing, or roasting, opt for higher heat specialty oils such as Avocado Oil. The higher smoke points make them better suited for high heat without burning. Of course, post cooking, finish your dish with just about any one of our oils!
• For Baking: Lighter taste profile extra virgin olive oils with mild flavors makes it a good substitute for butter or vegetable oil in baking. The oil adds moisture without overpowering the taste of your baked goods. We also love citrus oils for baking too!
• For Finishing: Use flavored or extra virgin olive oils to finish dishes. A drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil over grilled steak or a splash of basil olive oil on caprese salad can transform a simple dish into a gourmet experience.

The Olive Tap Difference

What sets The Olive Tap apart is our commitment to quality and variety. We source our olive oils from the best producers worldwide, ensuring that every bottle is fresh, flavorful, and free from defects. Our flavored olive oils are crafted with natural ingredients, making them a healthy and delicious addition to any kitchen.

Tips for Storing Olive Oil

To maintain the quality and flavor of your olive oil, store it in a cool, dark place away from heat and light. Keep the bottle tightly sealed to prevent oxidation, which can degrade the oil’s flavor over time.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Cooking with the Right Olive Oil

Choosing the right olive oil can significantly enhance your culinary creations. Whether you’re looking for a robust extra virgin olive oil for salads or a subtle, lightly flavored olive oil for baking, The Olive Tap has you covered. Explore our extensive selection of high-quality olive oils and discover the perfect match for your kitchen needs.

Ready to elevate your cooking? Visit The Olive Tap today and explore our premium olive oils and also balsamic vinegars. Your taste buds will thank you!