There are more than 2,000 varieties of olive tree worldwide, over 500 of them in Italy. The gnarled trees of southern Italy can be several hundred years old and reach heights of up to twenty metres. The trees grown by Olio Nobile’s producers in Tuscany are around six metres tall and yield an average of 10 to 15 kilograms of olives a year. This produces just one to one and a half litres of olive oil. Olive trees thrive in the temperate Mediterranean climate: a fertile combination of sunshine, sufficient autumn rainfall and relatively moderate seasonal temperature changes. Olive trees and their fruit offer a wonderful range of flavours, from fresh and mild to robust and delicately bitter.
Olive oil is therefore an integral part of the Mediterranean way of life, which brings together several elements. A varied daily intake of plant foods, including vegetables, fruit, pulses, nuts and grains, is at the heart of a Mediterranean diet. Olive oil plays a major role, both in salad dressings and in cooking. Mediterranean cuisine generally includes modest amounts of sheep’s and goat’s milk products, especially cheese and yoghurt. Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids is eaten several times a week. A glass of wine is part of the tradition too, in moderation, of course.
Almost everything in the Mediterranean is prepared with olive oil. The Mediterranean diet, and high-quality extra virgin olive oil in particular, is said to have health benefits.
The culinary versatility of olive oil
in hot and cold dishes
Olive oil enhances all kinds of salads and brings out the flavour of meat when searing, roasting or braising. Our extra virgin olive oil can be heated to 180°C. It is wonderful with mushroom dishes, plain or filled pasta, risotto, and all sorts of meat or fish carpaccio. Olio Nobile olive oil is also suitable for barbecuing.
For many people with high cholesterol and high blood pressure, olive oil is an ideal addition to their diet. Fruity, intensely flavoured Olio Nobile is a wonderful substitute for salt and an excellent alternative to butter. Our oils are suitable for baking as well as frying. High-quality olive oil works particularly well in shortcrust pastry, sponge cakes, yeast doughs and choux pastry.
Taste, try and experiment for yourself. An outstanding olive oil opens up a world of flavour while doing your health a world of good.
Buon Appetito!
