A Taste of the Mediterranean: Delicious Olive Oil Recipes

A Taste of the Mediterranean: Delicious Olive Oil Recipes for Every Occasion

The Mediterranean diet, famed for its health benefits and fresh flavours, prominently features olive oil. Olive oil is a versatile and delicious ingredient, perfect for a wide range of recipes. In this blog, we’ll explore some scrumptious olive oil recipes that will transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, perfect for any occasion.

1. Simple and Delicious Bruschetta

 

A classic Italian appetizer, bruschetta showcases the flavours of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of crusty Italian bread
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Vallesur extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Slice the bread into 1/2-inch thick slices and toast or grill until golden.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the tomatoes, basil, red onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted bread slices and drizzle with extra olive oil. Serve immediately.

   2. Mediterranean Salad with Olive Oil Vinaigrette

This refreshing and healthy Mediterranean salad features an olive oil-based vinaigrette that brings out the flavours of the vegetables and feta cheese.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup Vallesur extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.

3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.

   3. Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti

This simple yet flavorful pasta dish highlights the rich taste of olive oil, infused with garlic and red pepper flakes.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1/3 cup Vallesur extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook until the garlic is golden and fragrant.

3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic-infused olive oil. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

4. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

   Lemon Olive Oil Cake

This moist and tender lemon olive oil cake showcases the fruity notes of high-quality olive oil, balanced with a bright citrus flavour.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup Vallesur extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until well combined and pale in colour. Add the olive oil, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and serve.

Conclusion

These delicious recipes highlight the versatility of olive oil, which is the star ingredient of the Mediterranean diet. Embrace the flavours of the Mediterranean and elevate your dishes with Vallesur extra virgin olive oil, available for purchase on our website. Bring the taste of sunshine to your table and experience the health benefits of using high-quality olive oil in your cooking.