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Greece, the ancient land of myths and breathtaking landscapes, has long been revered as a cradle of culinary excellence, particularly when it comes to olive oil. Often called “liquid gold,” Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is more than just a kitchen staple; it’s a cornerstone of the world-renowned Mediterranean diet, celebrated for its exquisite flavor, aroma, and profound health benefits.
Join us as we explore the essence of Greek olive oil, delving into its rich history, unparalleled health benefits, and highlighting five exceptional varieties that truly embody the spirit and quality of this ancient land.
The vast majority of Greek olive oil is Extra Virgin Olive Oil, signifying its superior quality. This means it’s produced from the first cold pressing of olives, a meticulous process that preserves its maximum flavor, aroma, and nutritional integrity without the use of chemicals or excessive heat. This method ensures low acidity and a rich profile.
The omnipresent Koroneiki olive, with its robust, intensely fruity, and often peppery profile, is the backbone of many acclaimed Greek EVOOs, thriving in the country’s diverse microclimates. However, Greece boasts a rich tapestry of indigenous olive varieties, each contributing unique characteristics, creating a fascinating and diverse landscape for olive oil connoisseurs to explore.
The unique combination of sunny climate, varied topography, and traditional cultivation methods across Greece results in oils with distinct regional characteristics, vibrant colors, and complex flavor notes that truly set them apart on the global stage.
The story of olive oil in Greece is as old as civilization itself, a tale deeply interwoven with mythology, economy, and daily life. Archaeological evidence suggests the cultivation of olive trees in Greece dates back over 5,000 years, with findings of petrified olive leaves in Santorini estimated to be 50,000 to 60,000 years old, hinting at an even more ancient connection.
In Minoan Crete, around 2500 BCE, olive cultivation became widespread, forming a crucial part of the island’s economic boom. Olive oil was not just a foodstuff; it was a vital commodity used in religious rituals, as fuel for lamps, in perfumes, cosmetics, and even as medicine. Ancient Greeks, perhaps drawing on the observations of early scientists like Hippocrates who called it “the great healer,” recognized its purifying and healing properties.
Greek mythology also places the olive tree at the heart of its origins. Legend has it that the goddess Athena gifted the olive tree to the city of Athens, symbolizing peace and prosperity, winning the city’s patronage over Poseidon. This myth underscored the olive tree’s sacred status. It was considered such a precious gift that according to Aristotle, destroying an olive tree could result in the death penalty.
Throughout classical antiquity, olive oil played an immense role. Olympic athletes were famously anointed with olive oil before competitions, and winners were awarded not just olive wreaths (the kotinos, a symbol of peace), but also large quantities of valuable olive oil in amphorae – a prize equivalent to years of wages for ordinary citizens. This highlights its significant economic and social value. Greek olive oil was a major export, traded across the Mediterranean, contributing greatly to the prosperity of city-states like Athens.
From ancient stone presses, not dissimilar to modern cold-pressing methods, to the widespread use in Byzantine monasteries, olive oil has consistently remained at the core of Greek identity. Today, Greece continues to be one of the world’s top producers of high-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil, with many producers still honoring traditional methods passed down through generations. The enduring presence of ancient olive trees, some thousands of years old and still bearing fruit, stands as a living testament to this timeless legacy.
Beyond their incredible flavor and culinary versatility, Greek olive oils, particularly extra virgin varieties, are celebrated globally for their profound health benefits. As a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, their regular consumption is linked to increased longevity and a reduced risk of numerous chronic diseases, making them a true superfood.
At the heart of EVOO’s health prowess are its rich content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), primarily oleic acid, which are known for their heart-healthy properties. These healthy fats help to reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol levels while maintaining or even increasing “good” HDL cholesterol, crucial for preventing cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart attacks, and strokes.
Furthermore, Greek olive oil is a powerhouse of antioxidants, including polyphenols and vitamin E. These powerful compounds combat oxidative stress in the body, which is a key driver of cellular damage and premature aging. The anti-inflammatory properties, largely attributed to compounds like oleocanthal (which acts similarly to ibuprofen), help to mitigate chronic low-level inflammation—a root cause of many modern ailments including cancer, metabolic syndrome, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Regular intake of EVOO has been associated with improved cognitive function and memory.
Moreover, olive oil supports overall digestive health by stimulating enzyme production and can even have a mild laxative effect. Studies suggest it can also play a role in managing blood sugar levels, making it beneficial in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes. Its comprehensive nutritional profile, combined with its ability to enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), makes it an indispensable component of a truly healthful diet.
Greek Olive Oil is incredibly versatile and can transform your cooking, adding depth and authenticity to countless dishes. Here’s how to make the most of this liquid gold in your kitchen:
– Finishing Oil: For delicate flavors and maximum health benefits, use high-quality EVOO as a finishing oil. Drizzle it over salads, grilled fish, roasted vegetables, soups, or even yogurt and fruit. Its fresh, peppery notes will shine through.
– Dipping & Dressings: A simple bowl of EVOO with a sprinkle of oregano and sea salt makes an excellent dip for crusty bread. It’s also the perfect base for homemade vinaigrettes, where its flavor can truly stand out.
– Sautéing & Frying: Despite common misconceptions, Extra Virgin Olive Oil has a moderately high smoke point (around 375°F / 190°C), making it suitable for most everyday cooking, including sautéing vegetables, eggs, or light pan-frying. Use it generously when browning meats for a delicious crust.
– Roasting: Toss vegetables, potatoes, or meats with Greek Olive Oil before roasting. It helps them caramelize beautifully, imparting a rich, savory flavor. The fat carries the heat, ensuring even cooking and a tender interior.
– Marinades: The acidity and flavor of Olive Oil make it an excellent base for marinades. It tenderizes meats and infuses them with aromatic notes, especially when combined with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
– Baking (Yes, Baking!): In traditional Greek and Mediterranean baking, olive oil often replaces butter or other fats in savory breads, cakes, and even some sweet pastries. It adds moisture and a subtle, rich flavor. Try it in savory pies like spanakopita or a simple olive oil cake.
– Storage: To preserve its quality, store your olive oil in a cool, dark place, away from heat and light. An opaque bottle is ideal to prevent oxidation.
By understanding the best ways to incorporate Greek olive oil into your cooking, you’ll unlock a world of authentic Mediterranean flavors and nutritional benefits!
While Greece offers a vast array of exceptional olive oils, these five varieties stand out as prime examples of the country’s liquid gold, each offering a distinct taste of its rich olive-growing heritage:
Hailing from the picturesque Finiki Village in Lakonia, this high-quality EVOO is a harmonious blend of Koroneiki, Tsounati, and Asprolia olives. Its unique organoleptic properties, attributed to the special microclimate and chalky soils, result in an aroma reminiscent of fresh-cut grass and a delightful fruity, peppery taste. It’s often considered ideal for raw consumption or finishing dishes.
Produced in a small, hilly area of Olympia, in the southern Peloponnese, Olympia EVOO is typically a blend dominated by Koroneiki and Kollyreiki olives. Its light yellow-green color complements an aroma of ripe olives and a fruity flavor with a thick viscosity. The spicy and slightly bitter profile of this oil is well suited for use with meats, seafood, or enhancing the flavor of salads.
From the beautiful southern Aegean island of Samos, the Samos EVOO is predominantly made from the Throumba and Koroneiki olive varieties. Known for its golden color, sweet taste, and aroma of ripe olives, this intensely flavorful oil is a popular choice among consumers, reflecting the unique island terroir and its ancient olive groves.
This outstanding olive oil hails from the Kolymvari region in Chania, Crete. It is highly regarded for its superior quality, often showcasing the robust and healthy characteristics derived primarily from the Koroneiki olive, which thrives in the Cretan climate. It’s a prime example of Crete’s long-standing tradition of producing exceptionally flavorful and aromatic olive oils.
From the stunning island of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea, this olive oil is produced predominantly from the Thiaki olive variety, a local cultivar unique to the Ionian Islands, often blended with Koroneiki. Kefalonian olive oil is characterized by its bright, fruity aroma, often with notes of fresh herbs and a mild, balanced flavor that reflects the island’s lush landscape and Mediterranean climate.
Discover more Greek Olive Oils on TasteAtlas!
Here are some places where you can find different varieties of Greek Olive Oil in the UK:
They specialise in supplying authentic Greek food products in Crystal Palace (South East London), and, they deliver high quality authentic Greek products to the wider community. Their customers enjoy a delicious choice of takeaway hot and cold refreshments with Greek flavours.
UK’s leading supplier and distributor of premium Greek produce, sourcing the finest quality food products, wines, spirits and beers from across Greece and working directly with a network of small artisan producers.
They strive to support their clients’ needs and improve their services daily, providing customer-centric services. After spending years of travelling around Greece, Bakalikon has brought artisanal products from Greek local producers.
Their mission is to source & promote the unique flavours of Greece, reflecting the country’s rich biodiversity and geodiversity, unparalleled Mediterranean climate and long culinary history.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an eager home cook, exploring these quintessential Greek olive oils will undoubtedly elevate your culinary creations and introduce you to the true essence of Greece. Seek them out and experience the liquid gold that has nourished and enriched tables for millennia, offering both unparalleled taste and remarkable health advantages.
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