Extra virgin olive oil isn't a one-size-fits-all ingredient. Grocery store options may have simple labels. Yet there's a whole world of rich, unique flavors to explore. Intensities of extra virgin olive oil can vary, which makes cooking and pairing them with dishes and ingredients that much more exciting.
At Fustini’s our SELECT olive oil features three main intensities: delicate, medium, and robust. These types of olive oil signify a step beyond the generic olive oil perception and invite a unique culinary experience that elevates the flavor of dishes to a greater degree.
Here, we’ll share what you need to know about olive oil intensities and how to enjoy them in your healthy and flavorful cooking.
Olive Oil Intensities
Extra virgin olive oil has three main intensities: delicate, medium, and robust. As the names imply, the flavor components intensify as you move from delicate to robust. This has nothing to do with the quality of the oil, instead it relies on the actual flavor of the olive oil. These range in their bitterness and ripeness.
Delicate - The delicate flavor of olive oil is the lowest intensity of bitterness and pungency. They have just a slight bitterness to them but are overall mild, smooth, and buttery.
Medium - The medium flavor olive oil has a moderate level of intensity. They tend to have a balanced level of bitterness and pungency while also having a peppery finish.
Robust - The robust flavor olive oil has the more intense level of pungency and spiciness. It captivates with a grassy and bold flavor that can be a fun add to dishes.
Note that the intensities also vary based on the origin of the olive as well as what stage of ripeness the olives are harvested at, whether green, veraison, or black.
Cooking with Olive Oil Intensities
While each level of olive oil has its own unique and delightful characteristics, there are some ingredients and dishes that pair better with some more so than others.
Delicate
Delicate extra virgin olive oils pair well with more mild dishes when you want to add a subtle flavor. This intensity level of olive oil is great for topping off light salads in a vinaigrette, pairing with soft cheeses, or adding to seafood.
Medium
Medium extra virgin olive oils pair well with dishes where you want to add a little bit more of a flavor. These can be great in baking and salad dressings, as well as with chicken marinades and tossing with roasted or grilled vegetables. Medium oils tend to be the most versatile as they add enough boldness without coming on as too strong, depending on the dish.
Robust
Robust extra virgin olive oils pair well with dishes where you want to add a significant amount of flavor. While still smooth, these oils pair well with hearty meats like steak or pork, as well as rich red sauces and roasted root vegetables.
Finding Olive Oil Intensities at Fustini’s
Fustini’s makes it easy to find the right intensity for whatever you're cooking. Our high-quality fresh crushed SELECT olive oils are delightful, vibrant, and easy to love. Since we prioritize freshness, certain olive oils may only be available seasonally.
Depending on the time of year, you can find the following SELECT extra virgin olive oils at the following intensities:
- Arbequina, from Spain. This has ripe fruit with a low level of bitterness
- Nocellara, from Italy. This mild olive oil is sweet and flowery with a fun pepper and chili finish.
- Hojiblanca, from Spain. This olive oil is fruity, aromatic with a low bitterness and moderate pungency.
- Picual, from Spain. One of the most popular SELECT olive oils, the Picual has a fruity flavor that has a high stability, making it very versatile.
- Coratina, from Italy. This has a pungent, bitter, and herbaceous flavor.
Learn more about our SELECT extra virgin olive oils in this blog article.
Find Olive Oil Flavor at Fustini’s
Our SELECT olive oils carry their own unique intensities and flavor profiles that’s fun to explore and try. Stop into your local Fustini’s store or shop online to discover these products yourself. You can also sign up to join a Virtual Tasting Class to learn how to taste quality olive oil like a professional and unlock delightful flavors in each of these unique olive oil profiles.