More Interesting Facts on Olive Oil 

Numerous studies have confirmed that real extra virgin olive oil's main benefits for the heart stem from its unique polyphenol profile. These oil-based polyphenols survive the stomach, entering the bloodstream more readily than the water-soluble polyphenols such as found in tea and wine. They greatly reduce inflammation, one of the major causes of heart disease. One interesting study noted that olive oil also makes fresh vegetables and fish taste so much better that the study's participants more eagerly ate these heart healthy foods as well.

Flavor Trends in Dressings and Marinades    

Forget tired vinaigrettes and the old stand-by marinades. The "Return to the Kitchen" movement has amped up sales in the dressings and marinades category of food sales. It has also steered consumers' taste buds toward more flavor-forward endeavors. Exotic Pacific Rim flavors feature yuzu, plums, Asian pear, wasabi, and ginger. Fresh Mediterranean flavors are zesty and bursting with citrus. Both marinades and dressing are also benefiting from sweet-hot flavors, such as peppadew, and still others add complexity with distinctive alcohols such as sake and whiskey. 

Ginger seems to be the fan favorite, especially when married with pineapple or wasabi. Add to traditional vinaigrette and use with favorite fruits and vegetables. Also try the strong kick of Japanese horseradish; use it as a dressing on sweet edamame. Recipe here. 

Sweet-and-hot flavors are being kicked up a notch with premium spirits. The alcohol not only acts as a tenderizer but also mellows and rounds out any sharp flavors, leaving subtle after-notes. Recipe here. 

The combination of sweetness with subtle heat - is a huge food trend overall right now - has long been popular in marinades. The dueling flavors satisfy an array of tastes and create a balance on the palate. A great example is Korean Barbecue. Recipe here. 

Our in-store staff is always eager to help with culinary questions - explore the possibilities.