Which Oil is the Best for Salad?

I might be bias, but at Ostro Organics we press some of the finest and most exquisite culinary oils that you can find out there. Salad season is fast approaching - finally! So here are some quick tips worth mentioning when hunting for your seasons freshest salad oils.

Balancing Act

When choosing an oil it's important to balance or counter balance the existing acidity. No matter what result you wish to achieve, sweet, sour, bitter, salty or umami, it's important to know what oils might be a fit for you.

Pumpkin Seed Oil

The king of healthy salad oil is most definitely fresh, raw pumpkin seed oil. Derived of the seeds of various pumpkins, this oil has a distinct flavor and counters acidity very well. Think of fresh tomatoes, arugula lettuce or sharp apple cider vinegar - Pumpkin seed oil counter balances the acidity really well and makes these foods even more delicious to indulge!

Poppy Seed Oil

Fresh Poppy Seed Oil has a nutty finish and is most definitely one of the best oils that go with fresh lemon juice. If you prefer lemon juice over vinegar, try adding some poppy seed oil, fresh garlic, salt & pepper and you'll have a quick and easy salad dressing. Also popular in lemon or orange cake, this oil makes citrus shine in a whole new light!

Raw Black Sesame Seed Oil

Weather you use black or white raw sesame seed oil - the uses are very similar. In salads use this healthy salad oil with rice vinegar or soy sauce. Also a great combination in stir-fry's or hotpots. Raw sesame oil does not have an overpowering roasting flavour, which makes it suitable for elegant and delicate dishes. Your crisp salad greens will still stand out when using raw sesame oil.

Fresh Hazelnut Oil

Specially with fresh garden greens and on fruit salads, raw hazelnut oil will blow your mind. When used on kiwi, pineapple or crisp apples you'll experience first hand how this oil can handle acidity and make your meal stand out. Also in combination with chocolate or champagne, this is your go to finishing oil - get creative and try it out!

Fresh Flax Seed Oil

For those of you who love fresh flax oil - this one is a must try on fresh salad greens! Add a sip of fresh apple juice, salt & pepper and you'll have an amazing dressing. Some people combine flax oil with butter milk and have that as their salad dressing - add some fresh chives and we're talking YUM!

At the end of the day the best oil for salads is the one that you like using the most. It's not difficult to try something other than olive oil - just takes a little research and passion in the kitchen!

I hope you'll try some fresh oils this season - there are a lot more oils to choose from - but the ones mentioned above a great first hint.

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