Cooking with Evoo

The Magic of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is more than just a kitchen staple. If stored and used correctly, it is an essential addition to many of the most popular and nutritious diets around the world. EVOO is versatile, can be used when cooking at a range of different temperatures and has numerous health benefits too.

While there a wide range of olive oils to choose from, selecting the best quality extra virgin olive oil you can find is the surest way to increase the benefits derived from its use in your cooking. The definition of extra virgin olive oil is very precise regards production methods, taste and chemical composition. To be certified as extra virgin, an olive oil must:

• Come from a single source, it is not mixed / blended with other olive oils, even if they are of extra virgin quality
• Come from the first pressing of fresh, young olives, normally within 24 hours of harvesting
• Be extracted purely by mechanical means at temperatures specifically below 28C.
• Have free fatty acid or acidity level (normally measured as oleic acid) of less than 0.8%.
• Be defect free and have a perfect taste and aroma.

So, how can we be sure to choose an extra virgin olive oil of proven high quality such as Morocco Gold when there is so much choice out there?

Choosing And Storing the Right Olive Oil

Correct selection and storage of extra virgin olive oil is a vital factor in preserving its quality and maximising flavour and health benefits.

It’s important to read the label on extra virgin olive oil before purchasing in order to make sure you are getting the highest quality product. At Morocco Gold, we ensure all of our labelling information is clear and transparent, including information on polyphenols, which are a vital component in delivering the health benefits associated with a high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

Usually, extra virgin olive oil will have phrases like ‘cold-pressed’ or ‘first cold pressed extra virgin olive oil’ labelled on the bottle, indicating that a chemical-free process was used in its extraction. Taking extra time to read the label ensures you get the best extra virgin olive oil for your culinary needs!

According to The Olive Oil Times, there are five keyways you can maximise the shelf life of your extra virgin olive oil. These are:

• Avoid exposure to light
• Choose the right packaging
• Read the labels
• Find the best-before date
• Buy it fresh

The general rule of thumb is to keep your olive oil container as air tight as possible and store it in a sealed, dark container (glass or other material) and kept out of direct sunlight. If you prefer to buy your extra virgin olive oil in large quantities (Morocco Gold is currently available on a buy five and get your sixth bottle free promotion), decant the oil into smaller containers to protect it from the air until being used. If you store your olive oil in the fridge, it will eventually solidify, and condensation will promote oxidation.  And oxidation is not good for extra virgin olive oil! So keep it away from the fridge to improve the olive oil use by date.

If attention is given to all of the above factors, the best Extra Virgin Olive Oil can remain ‘extra virgin’ for up to two years after being packaged.

Best Ways to Use EVOO in Your Cooking

Drizzling: salads, soups, and finishing touches

When you’re drizzling extra virgin olive oil over your food or using it as a key ingredient in your cooking, you want to make sure you’re choosing a bottle that truly enhances your dishes. Look for a trusted brand that offers cold-pressed, unfiltered options for the best results.

Pro tip? Use cold-pressed versions to ensure all the nutrients stay intact—they’re not just good for your taste buds but great for your health, too! Now, onto the fun part—how you can use Extra Virgin Olive Oil to effortlessly upgrade your food prep.

The simplicity of a simple drizzle of extra virgin olive oil means that flavour is vital, and the best flavours come from olive oils that are produced with care and attention at every stage.

We know that extra virgin olive oil is great for cooking, sautéing, baking and as a dressing for salads.  In fact, we have a dedicated recipe section bursting with ideas for how to place your bottle of Morocco Gold centre stage in a stunning meal. 

Our top three simple choices for drizzling your extra virgin olive oil are;

• Drizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil On Your Sandwich
• Add Some Olive Oil To Your Soup
• Drizzle On Your Cheese

Sautéing and roasting: enhancing everyday dishes

Not only does Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil help food to cook it also adds a premium, tasty addition to the dish. High quality extra virgin olive oil also has the unique ability to draw out and accentuate the taste of whatever you are preparing.

If your roasted vegetables haven’t been turning out perfectly caramelized and golden, you may need a little EVOO in the mix. When used for roasting, EVOO works its magic in several ways:

• Crispy Perfection: The high-fat content in EVOO ensures a satisfying crisp on the outside while keeping the inside tender.
• Flavour Infusion: Unlike other oils, EVOO adds a subtle layer of flavour to roasted vegetables, potatoes, or even proteins like chicken and salmon.
• Ease of Use: Toss your ingredients with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs (like rosemary or thyme) before roasting. It’s simple, yet so effective.

Roasting tip: Always preheat your oven and use enough EVOO to coat your ingredients evenly. This prevents sticking and ensures an even roast.

Here are some recipe ideas for roasting with extra virgin olive oil.

Baking: using EVOO instead of butter or other oils

When it comes to baking, most of us assume we need certain staple ingredients, including flour, eggs and butter. However, more and more recipes are emerging that use good quality  Moroccan olive oil instead, resulting in super moist and absolutely delicious cakes.

When you use olive oil as a substitute for butter in baking, you’re not only making a healthier choice, but you’re also adding depth and complexity to your recipes. EVOO’s subtle peppery flavor can enhance everything from cakes to cookies, giving a modern twist to traditional treats.

Here are some stand-out reasons to swap butter for extra virgin olive oil in your winter baking repertoire:

• Healthier Fats: Butter is high in saturated fats, which can increase cholesterol. EVOO, on the other hand, is packed with heart-friendly monounsaturated fats.
• Moisture: Olive oil makes baked goods incredibly moist and tender, especially cakes and quick breads.
• Flavor: The slightly fruity, nutty undertones can elevate the flavor profile of many desserts.
• Dairy-Free Option: For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer dairy-free options, EVOO is a fantastic substitute.

Why not try some of these delicious bakes with extra virgin olive oil today?

Marinades and dressings: unlocking depth of flavor

Extra virgin olive oil is an excellent base for marinades, adding both richness and depth of flavor while helping to tenderize meat, fish, or vegetables. Its fruity, slightly peppery notes complement herbs, spices, and acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar, creating a balanced and aromatic mixture.

Beyond taste, olive oil acts as a carrier for fat-soluble flavors, allowing garlic, herbs, and spices to infuse more effectively into the food. It also helps form a protective coating that locks in moisture during cooking, resulting in a tender, flavorful dish with a subtle Mediterranean flair.

Pairing Olive Oil with Food

The versatility of extra virgin olive oil shows in the wide variety of food pairing options it can offer. The best quality extra virgin olive oils like Morocco Gold are an excellent pairing choice with fish, vegetables, pasta and even deserts.

For lots more recipe inspiration and food pairing with extra virgin olive oil ideas check out our recipes here and take advantage of one of our current discounts here.