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Some people might say that cooking with extra virgin olive oil at high heat is not good for you. However, looking at the studies, olive oil's main health benefit is its fat composition. Olive oil is mostly monounsaturated fat.  Cooking with an oil will not change its fat composition. Olive oil's percentage of monounsaturated fat remains the same after heating, even to high temperatures. The North American Olive Oil Association talks about heat and cooking with olive oils. The major points around this topic include: Smoke point - All oils will become unhealthy if heated past the smoke point. Stovetop cooking is usually...

What should you look for when tasting olive oils? The aromas of olive oil are a critical part of its flavor. The best way to appreciate them is to pour a little bit of olive oil (a couple tablespoons) into a shotglass, or small wineglass. Cup the glass in one hand and cover it with the other to trap the aromas inside while you warm it up. Swirl it to warm it for few minutes. Then place your nose deep in the glass and take in all of the aroma or “nose” of the olive oil. A good EVOO will...

Not unlike wine tasting, olive oil tasting deserves some attention to ensure you are consuming the finest quality oil. So, take your favorite brands of olive oil and... First, pour a tablespoon or two of extra virgin olive oil into a small glass. Cup the glass in your hands and swirl the oil gently to release aromas. As you swirl, you should be sure to allow the oil to warm in the process. Now it is time to breathe in the aromas. Stick your nose in the glass and inhale deeply. Then slurp the oil to bring in air while...

The olive oil harvest is one of my favorite times of the year... And, it has become a tradition for us since Amy and Mirco bought their farm, Costa Digiano. The harvest usually begins in mid to late October and extends into November, depending upon the weather. The harvest day is long It doesn't end until the olives are safely delivered to the frantoio, or mill, for pressing. We generally start the day at 8 a.m. and finish harvesting around 4 or 4:30 p.m. before heading to the mill. We begin the day by spreading the green nets around two...