Best extra virgin olive oil: 5 picks for healthy cooking

In the era of kale chips and quinoa, we’re all about healthy living. And what’s a healthier choice than switching to a healthy cooking oil? From drizzling it on salads to sautéing those veggies, extra virgin olive oil is a superstar in the culinary world. It is versatile and has health benefits too, as long as you don’t overheat it due to its low smoking point. So, let us take you through some of the best extra virgin olive oils in India to help you cook and eat healthier.

What is extra virgin olive oil and what are the health benefits?

The market is full of different types of olive oil, but only some of these can be used for proper cooking purposes. Extra virgin is the first cold pressing of olives, which preserves the most nutrients and flavour. Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, it can lower your risk of heart disease and promote good cholesterol. It’s also an anti-inflammatory powerhouse, reduces the risk of stroke, and can even help with weight loss. Basically, it’s a Mediterranean elixir that does wonders for your body.

Best extra virgin olive oil brands in India

With so many options out there, how do you choose the best one for your kitchen adventures? We’re here to help you with some of the best Amazon deals from the Amazon Great Indian Festival Sale 2023.

1. Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Are you looking for an oil that’ll make your dishes sing but not add a heavy note to your conscience? Enter Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil! This 1 litre bottle packs a punch when it comes to flavour, without the guilt of excess calories. It’s your best bet for all-purpose cooking, whether it’s grilling or roasting. With the subtle flavour of olives, it’s the kitchen companion you never knew you needed. The brand claims that the product is 100 percent natural and cold-extracted using the finest olives.

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2. Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil

If your culinary dreams involve recreating those fancy restaurant salads or perfectly sautéed veggies at home, Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive OIl is your ticket. Cold extracted to preserve those precious nutrients and flavours, this 1 litre bottle is your go-to for salad dressing or giving your stir-fries a wholesome twist. Drizzle it like you mean it!

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3. DiSano Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Looking to add a touch of Mediterranean magic to your Indian meals? DiSano Extra Virgin Olive Oil, straight from Spain, is the answer. Imported goodness in a 1L bottle, this olive oil is your sidekick for enhancing the flavour of your parathas, marinating your kebabs, or creating the perfect salad dressing. It’s like a culinary adventure in a bottle. Infused with antioxidants, this oil promises to reduce the levels of obesity and risk of osteoporosis.

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4. Gmore Cold Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil

For the health-conscious kitchen warriors, Gmore Cold Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil in its 1L avatar is here to stay. With its low cholesterol levels and high-quality standards, it’s perfect for those who believe in clean eating. Whether you’re baking, grilling or sautéing, this oil has got your back. It is infused with antioxidants, has a lower acidity and a higher monounsaturated fat content. Say hello to guilt-free cooking!

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5. Colavita Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Colavita Extra Virgin Olive Oil is known for its goodness. This 1 litre bottle is perfect for dressing your salads, dipping your bread or marinating your meats. The brand claims that its product is 100 percent authentic. It also contains vitamin E, which makes it a healthier option. In addition, this oil has cholesterol regulating function, which makes it a perfect choice.

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How to use extra virgin olive oil in Indian cooking?

Indian cooking and olive oil? It’s great for sautéing, grilling, or as a base for curries. You can also use it to drizzle over biryanis, as a salad dressing, or in marinating meats for a smokey flavor. Olive oil elevates the health quotient of your Indian dishes without compromising on taste.

Also read: Using olive oil for cooking? Here’s the right variety you should choose

Tips to find the best olive oil for cooking

Choosing the right olive oil is essential to get its maximum benefits. So, consider the following points before making your decision:

• Look for products that are certified extra virgin and organic. These certifications will ensure that the oil has undergone minimal processing and has been extracted without using any fertifilisers or chemicals.
• Make sure that you check the harvest date of the oil as a fresher is better when it comes to extra virgin olive oil.
• Consider the origin of olive oil as it impacts the flavours and characteristics of the oil.
• Pay attention to the extraction method of the olive oil. Look for cold-pressed olive oils as they are extracted without the use of any heat or chemicals.
• Opt for oils that are packed in dark glass bottles or metal tins to protect them from sunlight.
• Read the label carefully to get a better understanding of the product.

(Disclaimer: This article was collaboratively written by the editorial team along with a creative AI tool. At Health Shots, we make a constant effort to break the clutter for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by the editorial team but use your discretion and an expert’s opinion before using them. Their price and availability may differ from the time of publication. If you buy something using these links in the story, we may earn a commission.)