It is obtained from the fruit of the olive tree, which is naturally rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, vitamin E and other nutrients. This healthy composition gives it many positive effects on our health. Numerous studies have confirmed that consuming olive oil in moderation can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, regulate cholesterol levels, and act as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant.
Olive oil is also an excellent source of fat-soluble vitamins, which help improve nutrient absorption and support our immune system. Its variety of flavours and aromas ensure that it enhances other ingredients in recipes, adding a nice tangy or fruity touch.In our collection of olive oil recipes, you''ll find a wide range of tasty and nutritious dishes that can be prepared for a variety of occasions. From salads to roasted vegetable snacks to tasty main dishes, olive oil will be your faithful companion in creating delicious meals.
With simple steps and quality ingredients including olive oil, you can create true culinary masterpieces. Now get creative and enjoy creating delicious meals with olive oil!
10 POPULAR EUROPEAN DISHES WITH OLIVE OIL
1. Greek salad
Greek salad is one of the most popular and recognisable dishes of Mediterranean cuisine. It is made with slices of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, grated feta cheese, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with dried oregano. Refreshing and full of flavour, it is a great snack or side dish for main courses.
2. Spanish paella
Paella is a typical Spanish speciality made with a variety of ingredients, the most famous being paella Valenciana with chicken, prawns, beans, peppers and saffron. Olive oil plays a key role in the preparation, allowing the flavours of the ingredients to combine perfectly to create a rich and aromatic dish.
3. Italian bruschetta
This simple Italian dish is a popular starter or snack. It is made with toasted slices of bread, drizzled with olive oil and garnished with tomatoes, garlic and basil. The olive oil ensures a juicy and intense flavour that blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
4. French ratatouille
Ratatouille is a traditional Provençal vegetable dish made with tomatoes, aubergines, courgettes, peppers and onions. Olive oil is the main ingredient, which ensures the aromatic roasting of the vegetables and adds a pleasant fruity note.
5. Portuguese bakalca
Bakalca is a typical Portuguese dish made with dried bakalar, potatoes, onions, garlic, olives and olive oil.
6. Greek moussaka
Moussaka is a classic Greek dish resembling moussaka. It is made with layers of roasted aubergines, potatoes, minced meat, tomato sauce and béchamel, topped with olive oil. This succulent and hearty dish is a real treat for all lovers of Greek cuisine.
7. Spanish gazpacho
Gazpacho is a refreshing cold soup made with tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions, garlic, bread and olive oil. A popular summer dish in Spain, it is perfect for hot days.
8. French nicoise salad plate
Nicoise salad is a classic French salad made with boiled eggs, potatoes, boiled green beans, tomatoes, olives, capers and tuna, dressed with olive oil. This colourful salad is rich in nutrients and perfect for a light meal.
9. Greek spanakopita pie
Spanakopita is a delicious Greek pie filled with a mixture of spinach, feta, herbs and olive oil, wrapped in crispy puff pastry. This popular snack or side dish is often enjoyed at Greek family lunches.
10. Italian pesto pasta
Pesto is an Italian sauce made with basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic and olive oil. This aromatic sauce is excellent when combined with pasta, adding freshness and rich flavour.Olive oil plays a key role in these popular European dishes, not only enhancing their flavour but also contributing to a healthy diet and the rich cultural heritage of these regions.
DISHES WITH OLIVE OIL THAT YOU CAN MAKE YOURSELF
Roast vegetables with olive oil
Ingredients:
Various vegetables of your choice (e.g. peppers, courgettes, aubergines, onions)
Olive oil
Salt
Freshly ground pepper
Dry spices to taste (e.g. oregano, thyme, rosemary)
Instructions:
Cut the vegetables into even pieces.
Place them in a baking tray and pour olive oil over them.
Season with salt, pepper and your choice of dry spices.
Roast in a preheated oven at 200 °C for about 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
Greek salad with olive oil
Ingredients:
Tomatoes
Cucumbers
Red onions
Olives (black or green)
Feta cheese
Olive oil
Vinegar
Salt
Freshly ground pepper
Instructions:
Cut the tomatoes, cucumber and red onion into small cubes.
In a bowl, mix the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion and add the olives and sliced feta cheese.
Season with salt, pepper, olive oil and vinegar to taste.
Baked salmon with herbed olive oil
Ingredients:
Salmon fillet
Olive oil
Freshly squeezed lemon juice
Parsley
Basil
Thyme
Salt
Freshly ground pepper
Instructions:
Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
Sprinkle with herbs, salt and pepper.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is nicely browned.
Mashed potatoes with olive oil
Ingredients:
Potatoes
Olive oil
Milk or vegetable cream
Salt
Freshly ground pepper
Instructions:
Peel the potatoes, cut into small pieces and boil in salted water.
Mash the cooked potatoes with a fork or masher, add a little olive oil and milk or vegetable cream.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Roast chicken with vegetables and olive oil
Ingredients:
Chicken fillet
Vegetables of choice (e.g. broccoli, carrots, courgettes)
Olive oil
Salt
Freshly ground pepper
Fresh rosemary
Thyme
Instructions:
Cut the chicken fillet and vegetables into small pieces.
Place the ingredients in a baking tray and pour olive oil over them.
Season with salt and pepper and sprinkle with herbs.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200 °C for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
Risotto with vegetables and olive oil
Ingredients:
Arborio rice
Peas (small tin)
4 carrots
Bunch of asparagus
Olive oil
Vegetable soup
Parmesan or other grated cheese
Salt
Freshly ground pepper
Instructions:
First, sauté the vegetables (leave the cooked peas and stir them in 10 minutes before the end of cooking).
Then prepare the risotto as usual (adding the stock and stirring). Add the stock in small quantities.
Finally, add the olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Enjoy preparing and tasting these healthy and tasty olive oil meals that will pamper your body and ensure your well-being!