Cooking With Olive Oil: How to Use It Confidently and Make Everything Taste Better
Cooking with olive oil should not feel confusing, controversial, or like you need permission from the internet.
At The Anointed Olive, one of the most common questions we hear in our DeLand and Ormond Beach stores is simple:
“Can I cook with olive oil?”
The answer is yes. Not only can you cook with olive oil, you probably should.
Why Olive Oil Is Meant for Cooking
Olive oil has been used for cooking for thousands of years. Long before food blogs, influencers, or smoke point debates, people were sauteing vegetables, roasting meats, and finishing dishes with olive oil because it worked and tasted good.
High-quality extra virgin olive oil is stable, flavorful, and versatile. When used correctly, it enhances food instead of overpowering it.
The key is understanding that not all olive oils are meant for the same job.
Choosing the Right Olive Oil for the Way You Cook
One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming olive oil is one-size-fits-all.
Different olive oils shine in different situations.
For everyday cooking like sauteing, roasting, and baking, look for a balanced extra virgin olive oil that can handle heat without losing its character.
For finishing dishes, dipping bread, or drizzling over vegetables, a more delicate or flavor-forward olive oil adds brightness and depth right before serving.
At The Anointed Olive, we help customers choose oils based on how they actually cook, not how a label sounds.
Can You Cook With Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Yes. Absolutely.
High-quality extra virgin olive oil is safe and effective for most home cooking. It performs well for sauteing, roasting, pan cooking, and even baking.
The idea that extra virgin olive oil should only be used raw is outdated. What matters most is freshness, quality, and choosing the right oil for the heat level.
If an oil smells fresh and tastes clean, it belongs in your pan.
Cooking With Olive Oil Without Burning It
Olive oil does have a smoke point, but that number varies depending on the oil.
Fresh, high-quality olive oil typically has a higher smoke point than people expect. Burning usually happens when heat is too high or the pan is left unattended, not because olive oil is fragile.
A simple rule helps:
- Medium heat for sauteing and everyday cooking
- Moderate heat for roasting
- Finish with olive oil when you want maximum flavor
If you are unsure, ask. That is why tastings and guidance matter. We are Olive Oil experts!
Olive Oil Makes Simple Food Better
One of the best things about cooking with olive oil is how little effort it takes to improve a meal.
A good olive oil can elevate:
- Roasted vegetables
- Pasta and grains
- Chicken, fish, and pork
- Eggs and breakfast dishes
- Soups and sauces
You do not need complicated recipes. Good oil does a lot of the work for you.
Cooking With Olive Oil at Home Starts With Quality
If olive oil tastes bitter, greasy, or flat, it is often not the cooking. It is the oil.
Freshness matters. Storage matters. Quality matters.
That is why tasting before buying makes such a difference. When you know what good olive oil tastes like, cooking becomes easier and more enjoyable.
Visit Us to Learn How to Cook With Olive Oil Confidently
If you want help choosing olive oil for cooking, we are happy to help.
DeLand, Florida
The Anointed Olive DeLand
118 N Woodland Blvd
DeLand, FL 32720
Ormond Beach, Florida
The Anointed Olive Ormond Beach
240 N Nova Rd
Ormond Beach, FL 32174
In both locations, you can taste oils, ask questions, and leave knowing exactly how to use what you buy.
Not Near DeLand or Ormond Beach? Order Online
You do not need to live nearby to cook with better olive oil.
The Anointed Olive ships olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and gourmet gift sets anywhere in the United States. International shipping is not available at this time, however we do ship to military APO addresses overseas.
You get the same oils we sell in-store, delivered to your door.
Cooking With Olive Oil FAQ
Is olive oil good for cooking?
Yes. High-quality olive oil is excellent for everyday cooking, including sauteing, roasting, and baking.
Can you cook with extra virgin olive oil?
Yes. Extra virgin olive oil is safe and effective for most cooking methods when used at appropriate temperatures.
What olive oil is best for cooking?
A fresh, balanced extra virgin olive oil works best for everyday cooking. More delicate oils are great for finishing dishes.
Does olive oil lose nutrients when heated?
Some nutrients change with heat, but olive oil remains a healthy and stable cooking fat compared to many alternatives.
Why does my olive oil smoke?
Smoking usually happens when heat is too high or the oil is old. Fresh olive oil used at moderate temperatures performs well.
Where can I buy olive oil for cooking?
The Anointed Olive offers tasting experiences and guidance in DeLand and Ormond Beach, Florida, and ships nationwide within the U.S.
Continue Exploring
To learn more about olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and how to use them, start with Welcome to The Anointed Olive, then explore our guides on olive oil stores, balsamic vinegar stores, and gift sets.

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