Is cooking with extra virgin olive oil healthy? Some people still question it, but we’re here to show you that heating extra virgin olive oil is not only possible but also much healthier than using other types of oils.
Is Extra Virgin Olive Oil Healthy for Cooking?
It’s a myth that you can’t cook with extra virgin olive oil. In fact, high-quality extra virgin olive oil is perfect for heating. It’s packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, along with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
So, where does this misunderstanding come from? In the past, olive oil was produced with millstones, which sometimes left olive pit residue in the oil. These residues could burn when heated. Today, however, olive oil is filtered and free from these impurities. Learn more about how our olive oils are made.
How Hot Can Extra Virgin Olive Oil Get?
High-quality extra virgin olive oil can be heated up to 356°F (180°C) without issue. If the oil has a low acidity level, it can even handle temperatures as high as 392°F (200°C). At Oil & Vinegar, all of our extra virgin olive oils are first-press oils with acidity levels below 0.8%.
While refined olive oils have a higher smoke point (around 464°F or 240°C), they lack the health benefits of extra virgin. The refining process removes the healthy fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that make extra virgin olive oil so beneficial.
Which is Better for Cooking: Sunflower Oil or Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
At Oil & Vinegar, we recommend extra virgin olive oil for frying, sautéing, and stir-frying, thanks to its flavor and health benefits.
While sunflower oil is a popular cooking choice, extra virgin olive oil offers much more. It contains healthy monounsaturated fats and is rich in antioxidants. Plus, it brings a distinctive flavor to your dishes, elevating your cooking to the next level.
We advise against using refined olive oils for cooking. They lack the nutrients and taste that make extra virgin olive oil superior.
Can You Cook Everything with Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is incredibly versatile and can be used for virtually any dish. However, the type of olive oil you choose can impact the flavor of your dish.
For lighter recipes, a rich extra virgin olive oil like our Bonsecco Extra Virgin Olive Oil is ideal. It can handle temperatures up to 374°F (190°C).
For higher-heat cooking, we recommend our Baking & Frying Olive Oil. This neutral-flavored olive oil is the perfect base for any dish and can be used for frying, sautéing, stir-frying, and even deep-frying at temperatures up to 410°F (210°C).
Need advice? Visit one of our stores or reach out to our Customer Service Team. At Oil & Vinegar, we offer a variety of olive oils for all your cooking needs.
