When it comes to selecting olive oil for cooking, there is an infinite range of qualities that experts look for. And, if you’re thinking about gourmet-kind olive oil, you will not think exactly of Costco, but then you’re losing one of the best oils in the market. But, first off, it’s primary to consider where the olives used in the production of the oil come from. While many olives are grown in Italy, they are also cultivated throughout Southern Europe in countries such as Spain, Turkey, and Greece. So, if a label only specifies that the olive oil was produced in Italy, it’s best to exercise caution, as the source of the olives may not be clear.
Another crucial aspect to keep in mind is how the olive oil is packaged. Look for bottles that are either opaque or dark, as exposure to sunlight and heat can cause the oil to spoil quickly. And when you do bring that bottle home, be sure to store it in a cool, dark place, away from any sources of heat or light. This will help preserve the oil’s flavor and aroma for longer, allowing you to enjoy it in all its deliciousness for months to come. American cook Samin Nosrat always takes a look at all these aspects and, surprisingly, the one she chose is sold at Costco, and it’s not a fancy brand.
Samin Nosrat’s Favorite Olive Oil Is Sold Only at Costco
When it comes to cooking, the quality of ingredients can make all the difference. Samin Nosrat, renowned chef and author of the bestselling cookbook “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat,” is certainly no stranger to this concept. In fact, she’s quite particular about the ingredients she uses in her cooking. For example, Nosrat is known to favor artisanal two-year-old soy sauce, as well as a special Japanese salt that travels from the other side of the planet to be charged $20 to the costumers. It’s just salt, but she knows what she’s doing.
But don’t let that fool you, because she’s also a fan of more affordable options like Diamond Crystal kosher salt. And when it comes to olive oil, Nosrat is singing the praises of a particular brand that may surprise you.
Costco’s Kirkland Signature organic extra-virgin olive oil has earned the chef’s stamp of approval, with Nosrat describing it as “really good.” The brand is transparent about where the olives are sourced (Portugal, Tunisia, Italy, Greece) and adheres to strict EU regulations for olive oil production. The oil is even stamped with one of three quality seals: PDO, PGI, or Organic Olive Oil.
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Products Are Surprisingly Great
If you’re looking for a high-quality olive oil that won’t break the bank, Costco is offering is certainly worth considering. Its rich flavor and aroma are sure to elevate any dish you prepare, from salads to pasta dishes and beyond.
About oils, all the Kirkland Signature ones are amazing for cooking, because of their quality and great behavior when cooking. The canola oil, for example, has a high smoke point, so it won’t burn easily. This one is produced at Canada, which is one of the best origins for canola in the world. Also take a look at the coconut oil from this exclusive Costco brand. It’s great for exotic dishes and tropical, Asian or Caribbean-style cooking.
Why extra virgin olive oil is better than other oils
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is widely recognized as one of the healthiest cooking oils available. Studies have shown that EVOO contains powerful antioxidants, polyphenols and monounsaturated fatty acids that act as an anti-inflammatory agent and are beneficial for human health.
- A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that EVOO was associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease and stroke, and a reduced overall risk of mortality — when compared to other cooking oils.
- A study conducted by the American Heart Association concluded that EVOO had a positive effect on blood cholesterol levels and could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study found that EVOO improved HDL (good) cholesterol levels and reduced LDL (bad) cholesterol levels compared to other vegetable oils.
- Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that EVOO was associated with a reduction in inflammation, oxidative stress and total cholesterol levels. These findings suggest that EVOO can be beneficial for reducing the risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease.
EVOO is a healthier choice than other cooking oils due to its high levels of antioxidants, polyphenols and monounsaturated fatty acids, which have been linked to a number of health benefits.