Any recommended pairings for Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Spain?

The complexity, balance, and aromatic intensity of early harvest extra virgin olive oil, often described as “green olive juice,” make it an extraordinary ingredient to elevate a wide variety of dishes. Its unique flavor profile, characterized by fresh, grassy notes, a touch of bitterness, and a peppery finish, adds a layer of sophistication and richness when used raw. Unlike regular olive oils, early harvest olive oil retains more of its natural antioxidants and polyphenols, which not only contribute to its bold flavors but also enhance the health benefits of your meals.

Here’s a closer look at how this versatile green olive juice can transform your culinary creations, from cheeses and cold cuts to desserts.

Cheeses: Semi-Hard and Hard Varieties

One of the best pairings for high-quality olive oil is with cheese. For semi-hard varieties such as our Marqués de Mendiola artisan sheep cheese, the oil complements its creamy texture and subtle flavors, adding a sharp, fresh contrast. When drizzled over semi-hard cheese, the olive oil enhances the underlying nutty tones while bringing out the richness of the dairy.

On the other hand, hard cheeses like our Gran Reserva aged sheep cheese truly shine with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The strong, savory flavor of hard cheeses melds perfectly with the grassy, pungent notes of the oil, creating a balanced tasting experience. The combination also works well as a topping for crostini or served with crackers for a sophisticated appetizer. You can find these delicious cheeses in our shop. Check them out here!

Cold Cuts: Salami and Ham

When paired with cold cuts, especially chunks of salami and ham, olive oil elevates the experience by cutting through the saltiness of the meat with its fresh, fruity tones. The peppery finish of early harvest olive oil complements the spices in salami, while its mild bitterness helps to balance the fatty richness of ham. Drizzling it over a charcuterie board can add a refined touch, making the flavors of the meats more vibrant and complex.

Pasta: Enhancing Classic Sauces

Olive oil is no stranger to Italian cuisine, especially pasta. Whether you’re making a simple pesto, a hearty Bolognese, or a classic tomato sauce, early harvest extra virgin olive oil can be the secret ingredient that ties everything together. It adds depth and a glossy finish to the sauce, making each bite more satisfying.

For something simpler, you can toss the pasta directly in olive oil, finish with freshly grated Parmesan, and let the oil’s natural richness coat the noodles. It’s an effortless way to make even the most basic pasta dishes stand out.

Cannelloni, Lasagna, and Pizza

Beyond traditional pasta dishes, olive oil pairs incredibly well with cannelloni, lasagna, and even freshly baked pizza. After these dishes come out of the oven, drizzling some olive oil on top can intensify the flavors of the cheese and vegetables.

For a four-cheese pizza, a splash of olive oil after baking enhances the creaminess of the cheeses, while its bitterness offers balance to the rich flavors. On a vegetable pizza, the oil adds a fresh contrast to the roasted vegetables, making every slice more vibrant and flavorful.

Grilled Fish and Meat

When it comes to grilled fish, such as sardines, salmon, sea bream, turbot, or cuttlefish, early harvest olive oil brings out the natural sweetness of the fish. The fresh, slightly peppery flavor of the oil complements the smokiness from the grill, while its fruity notes elevate the fish’s delicate flavors. Simply drizzle it over the fish right before serving for a finishing touch that amplifies the dish’s complexity.

Olive oil is also a fantastic complement to a meat steak such as ribeye or sirloin, as well as grilled chicken. The oil’s bitterness and richness play off the juicy, savory flavors of the meat, creating a harmonious balance. For the best results, drizzle it over the steak right after cooking to capture the fresh aromas and lock in moisture.

Surprising Pairings: Chocolate, Orange, and Ice Cream

One of the most unexpected yet delightful pairings for olive oil is with dark chocolate. The slight bitterness of the oil enhances the depth of the chocolate, making it a rich, decadent experience. This pairing can be a simple drizzle of olive oil over a piece of chocolate or even incorporated into a dessert.

Another surprising match is with slices of orange. The oil’s freshness balances the citrus’s natural acidity and sweetness, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This pairing is an ideal way to finish a meal, offering a light yet flavorful dessert option.

For something even more adventurous, try pairing early harvest olive oil with vanilla ice cream and a pinch of salt. The olive oil adds a creamy, luxurious texture, while the salt enhances the sweetness of the ice cream, creating a truly unique and indulgent dessert experience.

Conclusion

Early harvest extra virgin olive oil is more than just a condiment; it’s a versatile ingredient that can elevate both savory and sweet dishes. Its complexity, balance, and intensity make it a fantastic match for a variety of foods, from cheeses and cold cuts to pasta, pizza, grilled meats, and even desserts. Whether you’re drizzling it over a simple salad or pairing it with dark chocolate, this green olive juice brings a touch of sophistication and a burst of flavor to every dish.