Best Blended Olive Oil Recipes: A Complete Guide to Cooking with Versatility and Flavor
Blended olive oil is a versatile kitchen staple that can elevate a wide range of dishes, from savory meals to sweet treats. At OliveOil.co.in, we believe that using the right oil is essential for bringing out the best in your cooking. Whether you’re dressing a fresh salad, grilling your favorite meats, or baking a delicious dessert, blended olive oil can add the perfect balance of flavor and health benefits.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the best blended olive oil recipes that will help you make the most of this wonderful ingredient. From hearty dinners to light snacks and even desserts, these recipes will not only enhance the taste of your dishes but also boost their nutritional value. Let’s dive in!
Why Blended Olive Oil?
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s take a moment to talk about why blended olive oil is such an essential ingredient in your kitchen.
Blended olive oil is made by combining extra virgin olive oil with refined olive oil or other types of oils. This blend provides a perfect balance of flavor, affordability, and versatility. The extra virgin olive oil contributes to the oil’s rich flavor and health benefits, while the refined oil offers a neutral taste and allows for higher cooking temperatures.
Here are some reasons why blended olive oil is a great choice:
- Versatility in Cooking: You can use it for sautéing, frying, grilling, and even baking.
- Affordable Quality: Blended olive oil offers the best of both worlds, with a quality taste at a more accessible price point.
- Health Benefits: It’s packed with healthy fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
At OliveOil.co.in, we recommend using our premium blended olive oils to enhance your cooking experience. Now, let’s get to the fun part—cooking with olive oil!
Savory of Best Blended Olive Oil Recipes
1. Blended Olive Oil Salad Dressing
A fresh salad is the perfect way to incorporate the health benefits of olive oil into your diet. Here’s a simple yet flavorful blended olive oil salad dressing that will complement any greens:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup blended olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the mustard, balsamic vinegar, and garlic.
- Slowly drizzle in the blended olive oil, whisking constantly until emulsified.
- Season with salt and pepper, and adjust to taste.
This dressing is tangy, creamy, and perfect for any salad. The blended olive oil creates a smooth texture, while the Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick. Try this recipe with mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or even as a marinade for grilled chicken.
2. Herb-Infused Blended Olive Oil for Dipping Bread
Infusing blended olive oil with fresh herbs and garlic is an easy way to add flavor to your meal. This recipe is perfect for serving with a loaf of fresh, warm bread.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup blended olive oil
- 2 sprigs rosemary
- 1 sprig thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat the blended olive oil over low heat.
- Add the rosemary, thyme, and garlic to the oil, and let it infuse for about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and strain out the herbs and garlic.
- Pour the infused oil into a serving dish and serve with crusty bread.
The blended olive oil enhances the flavor of the herbs, making this dipping oil an irresistible appetizer or side dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables with Blended Olive Oil
Roasting vegetables is an easy way to bring out their natural sweetness, and blended olive oil is the perfect choice for this. The oil’s smooth texture helps vegetables caramelize, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 1 pound potatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon blended olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the vegetables in blended olive oil, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the vegetables are golden and crispy.
The blended olive oil enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables and gives them a beautiful golden color. This dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian option.
4. Blended Olive Oil Pasta Sauce
A simple pasta sauce made with blended olive oil is all you need for a quick and satisfying meal. The oil adds richness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons blended olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the blended olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and dried basil, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, and toss with your favorite pasta.
This blended olive oil pasta sauce is simple, flavorful, and a great way to incorporate healthy fats into your diet. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Sweet and Best Blended Olive Oil Recipes
1. Olive Oil Cake with Lemon and Almond
Olive oil isn’t just for savory dishes—it can also be used to create a moist, flavorful cake. This olive oil cake combines the richness of blended olive oil with the fresh zest of lemon and the nutty flavor of almonds.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup blended olive oil
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup almond meal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, almond meal, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, lemon zest, and blended olive oil.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
The blended olive oil makes this cake moist and flavorful, while the almond meal adds a lovely texture. It’s a unique twist on a traditional cake and a great way to use olive oil in desserts.
2. Chocolate Olive Oil Brownies
Rich and fudgy, these brownies are made with blended olive oil for a healthier alternative to butter. They’re perfect for a dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth while still providing nutritional value.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup blended olive oil
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the blended olive oil, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the flour and salt.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
These chocolate olive oil brownies are rich, moist, and full of deep chocolate flavor, with the added benefit of healthy fats from the blended olive oil.
3. Olive Oil Gelato with Citrus Zest
If you’re looking for a unique dessert, try making gelato with blended olive oil. The result is creamy, refreshing, and perfect for a hot day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup blended olive oil
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup sugar
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream, milk, blended olive oil, orange zest, and sugar.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Freeze the gelato for at least 2 hours before serving.
The blended olive oil gives this gelato a rich, smooth texture and a unique flavor that perfectly complements the citrus zest.
Blended Olive Oil for Cooking and Grilling
1. Grilled Chicken with Lemon and Garlic Blended Olive Oil Marinade
Grilled chicken marinated in a blended olive oil mixture is simple to prepare and full of flavor. The olive oil helps the chicken stay moist while imparting a deliciously smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup blended olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the blended olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
The blended olive oil adds moisture to the chicken while allowing the garlic and lemon to shine through, creating a deliciously simple grilled dish.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Blended Olive Oil Recipes
What is Blended Olive Oil?
Blended olive oil is a mixture of extra virgin olive oil and refined olive oil, providing a balanced flavor that’s versatile for various cooking methods.
Can I Use Blended Olive Oil for Frying?
Yes, blended olive oil has a higher smoke point, making it perfect for frying and grilling.
How Does Blended Olive Oil Compare to Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Blended olive oil has a more neutral flavor and can withstand higher temperatures, while extra virgin olive oil is richer in flavor and ideal for dressings and drizzling over finished dishes.
Is Blended Olive Oil Good for Baking?
Yes, blended olive oil can replace butter or other oils in baking, providing moisture and a subtle flavor to cakes, brownies, and other baked goods.
Can I Make My Own Blended Olive Oil?
Yes, you can blend your own oils at home by mixing extra virgin olive oil with a lighter, refined olive oil. Adjust the ratio to your taste.
How Do I Store Blended Olive Oil?
Store blended olive oil in a cool, dark place, away from heat and sunlight, to preserve its freshness and flavor.
Can I Use Blended Olive Oil for Salad Dressings?
Absolutely! Blended olive oil is great for making salad dressings, offering a smooth texture and rich flavor.
What Are the Health Benefits of Blended Olive Oil?
Blended olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, promoting heart health and overall wellness.
Is Blended Olive Oil Suitable for High-Temperature Cooking?
Yes, blended olive oil is perfect for high-temperature cooking methods like frying and sautéing due to its higher smoke point.
What Dishes Can I Use Blended Olive Oil For?
You can use blended olive oil for a variety of dishes, including salads, pasta, grilled meats, baked goods, and even desserts.
Can I Use Blended Olive Oil for Dipping Bread?
Yes, blended olive oil works wonderfully for bread dipping when infused with herbs and spices.
Is Blended Olive Oil Suitable for Vegan Recipes?
Yes, blended olive oil is vegan-friendly and can be used in any plant-based recipe.
Can I Substitute Blended Olive Oil for Butter in Recipes?
Yes, blended olive oil can replace butter in most recipes, providing a healthier alternative.
How Much Blended Olive Oil Should I Use in Recipes?
The amount of blended olive oil varies depending on the recipe, but typically 2 to 4 tablespoons are used for dressings, marinades, and cooking.
What’s the Difference Between Olive Oil Blends and Other Oils?
Blended olive oil combines the flavors and properties of extra virgin and refined olive oils, providing versatility for high-heat cooking while retaining some of the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil.
Can I Use Blended Olive Oil in Desserts?
Yes, blended olive oil works well in desserts like cakes, brownies, and even ice cream.
What Flavors Does Blended Olive Oil Enhance in Cooking?
Blended olive oil enhances savory flavors, like garlic, herbs, and spices, and also brings out the natural sweetness in vegetables and baked goods.
Does Blended Olive Oil Have a Long Shelf Life?
When stored properly, blended olive oil can last up to two years, though it’s best used within a year for optimal flavor.
Is Blended Olive Oil Better Than Other Cooking Oils?
Blended olive oil is a healthier choice compared to other oils, as it’s rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition to your meals.
Can I Use Blended Olive Oil for Roasting Vegetables?
Yes, blended olive oil is perfect for roasting vegetables, providing a golden color and crispy texture.
