My Love Affair with Olive Oil

It was definitely love at first bite, when I tasted my first olive as a child – the flavor so delicious, the texture so unique and the pitted size so perfect…contributing to the playful nature of the olive, as I placed one on each finger and sequentially popped them in my mouth. It’s true. I’ve always loved olives and olive oil. Growing up in an Italian-American family, olives and olive oil played a central role in my life. I remember hearing stories from my grandfather, who during the depression years, would save money for weeks in order to buy that gallon of olive oil. Nonno Vincenzo would puncher a small hole at the top of the tin (with an ice pick) to enable the steady stream of olive oil for drizzling on salads, vegetables, meat, chicken and just about everything consumed. However, that small puncher also cautioned the family to revere this liquid gold and use it sparingly.

I must admit I don’t use olive oil sparingly. I use it for anything and everything. It is my passion. My love affair with olive oil has led to my endless study of the subject. To me, the history of Western Civilization mirrors the history of the olive tree – whether discussing the history of commerce, health and medicine, beautification, rituals or culinary practices. In fact, no other plant, with the possible exception of the grape vine, has the magical, mystical, and most influential impact on history than the olive tree.

I am thrilled that Olinda Ridge has asked me to share my passion on its Web site. I will be sharing some favorite family recipes and some interesting uses of olive oil. To get us started, here is one of my favorite non-culinary uses.

Tip: Remove makeup with olive oil.
Extra virgin olive oil is so pure and non-irritating that you can safely use it around the eyes to remove makeup. Pour a small amount of olive oil onto a clean cotton pad and gently wipe over your eyelashes and eyelids. Or, you can do as I usually do….pour a small amount in one hand and with the fingers of your other hand, smooth the olive oil over your eyes and eyelids. Then I use a soft tissue to remove the makeup. Not only will all of your eye makeup be completely gone, the delicate skin around your eyes will be moisturized and glowing.

Look for additional tips soon. If you can’t wait, please order a book and a bottle from Olinda Ridge or visit www.thepassionateolive.com.

More tips >