12 olive oil facts

Olive Oil is a kitchen essential that has been used in the Mediterranean for centuries. Here are some interesting facts to impress, next time you are in the kitchen!

1. The olive is a fruit not a vegetable.
2. The olive tree can live between 300 and 600 hundred years.
3. The olive branch is a symbol of peace.
4. Spain is the world’s largest producer of olive oil, followed by Italy.
5. Between 4 and 5 kilos of olives are needed to produce 1 litre of olive oil.
6. Variety and maturation are two of the most important factors that influence the quality and taste of olive oil.
7. Extra virgin is the highest quality and most expensive form of olive oil. It comes from the first pressing. It is the least acidic oil, with a strong olive aroma and fresh fruity flavour.
8. The term virgin universally means the oil was processed by the use of mechanical means only, with no chemical treatment.
9. Baked goods will last longer if you substitute olive oil in place of butter.
10. Air, light and heat affect olive oil, so you should make sure the bottle is properly closed and store it at room temperature out of direct sunlight.
11. To keep vegetables crisp in a salad, pour olive oil before you add salt, vinegar or lime. The olive oil will form a protective layer.
12. If you use a little olive oil in water when cooking pasta it will prevent it from boiling over.

Favourite recipes featuring olives and olive oil

Looking for some great dishes to try using quality olive oil? Here are a few of our favourites. 

• Rigatoni with Olive, Caper and Tomato Sauce
• Olive and Roasted Capsicum Bruschetta
• Olive Tapenade