Summer and Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A Perfect Pair
Summer has just begun, bringing high temperatures. It is the perfect season for enjoying the benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) as part of a healthy diet.
During summer, we look for shade, swims in the sea or pool, and meals full of salads, fish, rice, and generally light dishes where Extra Virgin Olive Oil should always be an essential ingredient.
Caring for Your EVOO in Summer
To preserve the extraordinary qualities and health benefits of EVOO, it is important during hot months to keep bottles tightly closed in a cool, dry place, protected from extreme summer temperatures. EVOO is very sensitive to odors, so open containers may absorb surrounding smells, altering their flavor. Direct and intense light should also be avoided, as it can negatively affect the oil.
Remember that Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a natural product with no added preservatives. If not properly stored, it may lose some of its beneficial properties, such as antioxidants and low acidity, and could become rancid. Bottles indicate a "best before" date, after which some properties may diminish, but the oil remains safe to consume.
EVOO in Your Summer Diet
Summer meals often need to be lighter and fresher. A finishing touch of EVOO adds flavor and health benefits, helping protect cells against heat stress. Fat-soluble vitamins such as K (in leafy greens), E (in vegetables, nuts, and seeds), D (in oily fish like mackerel and tuna), and A (in tomatoes, carrots, and corn) are absorbed more efficiently thanks to the oil.
Summer holidays also offer more time for outdoor sports. To support physical activity, include antioxidant-rich foods like EVOO in smoothies or detox drinks to stay hydrated and recover energy. Simple snacks, like toasted bread with EVOO, hummus, guacamole, or chilled soups like gazpacho and salmorejo, are ideal. EVOO also enhances fish dishes, whether fried, grilled, baked, or served in tataki with an EVOO vinaigrette. And for something refreshing, why not try homemade EVOO ice cream?
EVOO Ice Cream Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/4 liter of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 10 eggs
- 300 grams of sugar
- 1/2 liter of heavy cream
Instructions:
- Separate the egg yolks from the whites. Mix 100 grams of sugar with the yolks, and 200 grams with the whites, beating separately and letting them rest.
- Whip the cream and set aside.
- Mix the yolks with the rest of the ingredients in a blender, gradually adding the EVOO while blending.
- Once fully mixed, finish incorporating ingredients by hand to avoid lumps.
- Pour the mixture into a container and freeze until solid.
Benefits of EVOO for Skin and Hair in Summer
Extra Virgin Olive Oil deeply hydrates skin and hair, providing softness, preventing premature aging, and protecting against sun, pool, and sea exposure. It is also an excellent lip moisturizer, post-shave or waxing treatment, and hair mask before washing. Applied to insect bites, a few drops of EVOO can reduce inflammation and soothe itching.
Summer Gift Ideas
If you visit friends or family this summer, a bottle of Verde Esmeralda Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a thoughtful gift that will delight any host. Our store offers a wide selection that can be conveniently delivered to your home. Enjoy your summer with the flavor and health benefits of EVOO!
