Nutritional value
Olive oil is beneficial in many ways. It aids digestion, the heart and the brain, and may even help guard against cancer. Its concentration of mono- saturated fatty acids can be as high as 80 per cent. It is a good source of antioxidants, and contains traces of many vitamins and minerals. In calories, it is equal to butter, but as it has more flavour, very little is needed.
Using olive oil
The term 'cold pressed' is out of date, as 90 per cent of oil is now pressed centrifrugally and its temperature controlled by computer. (Years ago, a donkey walked in a circle, pulling a millstone around to crush the olives. The remaining oil was extracted by adding hot water and pressing again, thus 'hot pressed'.) Nowadays, there is almost never any need to get 'extra virgin'. Colour and cloudiness are also immaterial - just choose the flavour you prefer for a particular dish. At low temperatures, the oil may solidify; this is normal, and it will become liquid again when the temperature rises.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here