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Recipes
27. 2. 2025
How to Pair olive oil with food: tips and recipes for better flavor

Extra virgin olive oil is not only a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, but also a versatile seasoning that can enhance almost any dish. In this article, we’ll explore different foods that you can pair with high-quality olive oil, and provide simple recipes to help you make the most of its rich aroma.
1. Garlic and herb starter
One of the simplest yet most delicious ways to enjoy Chiavalon olive oil is by preparing a quick starter with garlic, herbs, and olive oil. This dish is perfect as an appetizer and pairs wonderfully with bread.
Ingredients:
- 100 ml of Ex Albis extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- Bread of choice (preferably sourdough, ciabatta, or baguette)
Instructions:
- In a small pan, add the Chiavalon olive oil and chopped garlic. gently heat, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the dried oregano, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute.
- Pour the mixture over sliced pieces of bread and serve. This simple recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the richness of extra virgin olive oil.

2. Olive oil salad dressing
A good dressing can completely transform a salad. Given the richness that Chiavalon extra virgin olive oil offers, it’s one of the easiest ways to add depth of flavor to even the simplest salads.
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp of Organic extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- A pinch of salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until all ingredients are well blended.
- Drizzle the dressing over freshly prepared salad greens, arugula, tomatoes, and cucumbers. This dressing can also be used for roasted vegetables.
3. Olive oil with grilled vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a perfect way to enjoy Chiavalon olive oil. Drizzle the oil over vegetables before or after grilling, or use it as a marinade.
Marinade ingredients:
- 4 tbsp of Organic extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- A pinch of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place your vegetables (e.g., zucchini, peppers, eggplant) in the bowl and coat them with the marinade. Let them sit for 30 minutes.
- Grill the vegetables over medium heat, occasionally basting with the remaining marinade. Serve with a final drizzle of Chiavalon Organic olive oil for extra flavor.

4. Olive oil in pasta and fish dishes
Chiavalon olive oil is also perfect for enhancing pasta and fish dishes. If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful meal, try this combination.
Pasta Ingredients:
- 100 ml of Istra extra virgin olive oil
- 200 g pasta of choice (spaghetti or linguine are ideal)
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- Fresh parsley
- A pinch of red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package.
- In a pan, heat the olive oil, add the garlic, and cook until golden brown.
- Add the red pepper flakes, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss the cooked pasta with the olive oil mixture and serve with a little extra Chiavalon Istra olive oil on top.
For fish lovers, you can also use our Romano olive oil for grilling or roasting fish. Simply drizzle olive oil over the fish, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and lemon, and cook to your liking.

5. Olive oil in desserts? Yes!
It may sound unusual, but Chiavalon olive oil can also be used in desserts, adding richness and depth of flavor. Here’s a great recipe for an olive oil cake.
Cake Ingredients:
- 100 ml Ex Albis extra virgin olive oil
- 200 g flour
- 150 g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
Instructions:
- Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, olive oil, and lemon zest.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased cake tin and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 30 minutes.
- Serve chilled, dusted with powdered sugar.
Chiavalon olive oil is incredibly versatile and can enhance the flavor of a wide variety of dishes—from appetizers and salads to pastas and even desserts. With these simple yet delicious recipes, you can easily add richness and depth to every meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new combinations and enjoy the healthy, perfect flavors that olive oil has to offer!