What To Make With What’s On Sale: Olive Oil

It’s time for What To Make With What’s On Sale!  Extra-virgin olive oil is at a rock-bottom price at Sunflower Market this week – just $4.99 for their store brand (33.8 oz).

“Extra-virgin” olive oil comes from the first pressing of olives and retains the most aroma, flavor, and nutrients (compared to “virgin” or “regular” olive oil.)  The possible uses for olive oil are endless, even going beyond the kitchen!  Here are lots of ideas for what to do with olive oil!

Olive oil and vinegar make a fantastic dip for bread.  Try mixing equal parts extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then add whatever herbs and spices you’d like.  Sturdier, rustic breads work best as they absorb the dip without becoming too soggy.

Roasting vegetables coated with olive oil makes a tasty side dish.  Almost any veggie can be roasted in olive oil, or try these easy Oven Roasted Red Potatoes!  (Red potatoes are a good price at Safeway this week!)

Olive oil and pasta make a good pair.  My family enjoys the simple side dish of cooked pasta with a drizzling of olive oil and a little sea salt.  This recipe for Shrimp Scampi looks yummy as well!

You can also bake with olive oil; these lightly sweetened Olive Oil Anise Cakes are so tasty (and cute too!)  If you’d prefer a savory bread, try these Olive Oil Rosemary Muffins.  They’d make a great accompaniment to soups or stews.

Olive oil has many uses around the house, too:

Skin Moisturizer: Because of it’s high antioxidant and linoleic acid content, olive oil is beneficial when applied directly to the skin as a moisturizer, or when added to a warm bath.

Earache Relief: Heat a small amount of olive oil on the stovetop until barely warm, then apply with a cotton swab to the outer ear cavity to help relieve an earache.  For a more powerful antidote, add a clove of crushed garlic to the oil before applying.

Wood Furniture Polish: Spiff up your wood furniture with a teaspoon of olive oil and a dry rag.  Add a drop or two of lemon juice for a fresh citrus scent (without all the added chemicals of commercial wood polish!)

Diaper Rash Prevention: Gently apply a bit of olive oil to baby’s bottom to help prevent or treat diaper rash.

Squeaky Hinge Lubricant: Try a little olive oil on a squeaky door hinge, or anywhere you’d consider using WD-40 or another lubricant.

How do you like to use olive oil, either in the kitchen or somewhere else in your home?  Please share your tips in the comments!

Be sure to visit the archives for dozens more ideas of what to make with what’s on sale!