Top Reasons to Love Olive Oil

Some of us have never been introduced to the culinary life Mediterranean style. It's never too late, however, for that discovery. The benefits are many. We can consider at least four reasons why olive oil belongs in your life.

Olive Oil Everywhere

When in Italy you probably will not be served butter with that beautiful bread. Typically butter has other purposes. In a restaurant - excuse me: ristorante - or even a café - chances are if you must have something to go with that bread, it will be olive oil. Many have distinct flavors, created by infusing herbs and different kinds of fruit or spices with the olives.

Extra Virgin, Virgin and just Olive Oil - what does it all mean?

In the first place this oil is a natural product. There is a process for releasing and capturing the oil that has been almost the same for thousands of years, using just about the same techniques. You can feel the excitement in understanding the presence of the fragrant and tasty oil from olives in human society since ancient times.

The differences between Extra Virgin and Virgin involve acidity. Basically there is a standard, a grading process for the olives. Extra Virgin Olive Oil - nicknamed by some as EVOO - means pressed with no heat, no chemical usage, no treatments. That's why it is known as cold pressed! - and has a lower percentage of acidity.

Lifestyle and Health Benefits

In simple language, Extra Virgin Olive Oil is known to play a part in:

* Lowering bad cholesterol
* Acting as a powerful anti-oxidant
* Reducing the risk of certain cancers.

Studies continue to show you can be healthier incorporating this magical oil into your life, gaining a lifestyle that has all these advantages. And it tastes good too, mixing it in with many kinds of foods both cooked and uncooked.

Cooking with Olive Oil

Go ahead and cook with it. Eggs, too? But of course. Butter is not mandatory. So sizzle up your French toast, oil your pan for an omelette and add a dollop to rice while it's steaming. Using it to prepare meat, seafood, vegetables and fish will result in food that is healthy and delicious.

You Didn't Expect This One

In the kitchen, while you are in the heat of your bubbling pots, take advantage of any drips from the olive oil bottle by wiping them up with your hands; it's a treat to your skin. There you have another great benefit: a spa treatment while cooking!

Olive Oil is marvelous for hair and skin and is used in natural remedies. When you shop for it, take the time to read the labels carefully. Some bottles labeled as Virgin are often blended with canola and other oils. That's okay sometimes, but reach for the real thing! Get ready for the good life - you'll see.

I'm Rebecca Ferndell, a food enthusiast, and I'd like to share what I continue to learn about cooking, food, health and recipes too. Join me at http://www.DishingFood.blogspot.com

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