Oil and Vinegar
A Mediterranean diet includes natural foods, including olive oil, nuts and tomatoes. When it was revealed through scientific studies that people in the Mediterranean were less susceptible to coronary illness than other parts of the world many of us sat up and took notice to the facts. And though many people may not understand why the Mediterranean diet promoted so many health benefits they welcomed the use of olive oil as an almost integral part of their diet and it is now a commonplace food item in most homes.
Olive oil can be used in a variety of ways. To make a superb salad dressing olive oil can be mixed with excellent balsamic vinegar. The resulting dressing is not only an ideal accompaniment for salads but can be used for bread dipping. Delicious rustic Italian breads and an olive oil and balsamic combination make a wonderful appetizer and are frequently offered in most good Italian restaurants.
Oil and vinegar have always been immensely popular as part of a Mediterranean diet but is now enjoyed globally not only for its taste but for the fact that it is actually good for you and has surprising benefits to health. It is not surprising that a delicious extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing would be preferable to other low calorie substitutes that may help reduce cholesterol but lack flavour. Irrespective of health benefits olive oil and vinegar are widely enjoyed by everyone in many different ways.
Only extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar are used to make good quality vinaigrette. It is very important to use only the best extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar as it will certainly reflect in the taste, texture and overall flavour of the dressing. In Italy it would be unheard of to use any oil and vinegar that were not of the best standard. Most chefs will choose only extra virgin olive oil for its unadulterated flavour. The best vinegar for a good vinaigrette recipe is aged balsamic vinegar of Modena. Extra virgin olive oil has a unique and pure flavour that cannot be compromised especially when creating dishes where olive oil is not combined with any other ingredient and the full flavour of the oil must be appreciated.
To preserve the shelf life of olive oil and extra virgin olive oil it is important to store them correctly. If olive oil is bought in a large container it can be decanted into smaller containers for storage purposes. Olive oil should be stored in a cool dark area of your kitchen or pantry. Before use olive oil should be transferred to a decanter.
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