Healthy Bits · Nutrition & wellness
Extra virgin olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil is at the heart of the Mediterranean diet, one of the most studied eating patterns and one research links with heart health. It's mostly monounsaturated fat, and "extra virgin" means it's extracted mechanically, without chemicals or high heat, so it keeps its polyphenols, the plant compounds behind its peppery bite.
Yes, you can cook with it. Good extra virgin olive oil holds up to everyday sautéing and roasting better than its reputation suggests. Save your best bottle for drizzling, where its flavor shines.
Buying tips:
- Choose dark glass or tins
- Look for a harvest date within the past year
- Store it away from the stove and sunlight
Try this: finish tonight's vegetables or soup with a generous drizzle and a pinch of flaky salt.
- healthy fats
- antioxidants
- dressings
Healthy Bits are for general education and aren’t medical advice. Check with your doctor or healthcare provider before making changes, especially if you’re pregnant or nursing, take medication, or are managing a health condition.