If you are someone who loves cooking, then you must be familiar with olive oil. It is one of the healthiest oils that you can find in the market and is widely used in cooking and salad dressing.

Olive oil is known to have multiple health benefits and is highly recommended by health experts. However, using olive oil can be tricky because of its flavor and properties. In this article, we will discuss the five common mistakes that you should avoid while using olive oil.

1. Overheating Olive Oil

One of the most common mistakes that people make while using olive oil is overheating it. Olive oil has a low smoke point, which means that it starts to break down and release free radicals when it gets too hot.

When you overhear olive oil, it loses its flavor and nutritional value and can also become toxic. To avoid this, always use olive oil on low to medium heat and avoid using it for deep-frying.

2. Using Olive Oil For Everything

While olive oil is undoubtedly healthy, it is not suitable for every recipe. Olive oil has a distinct flavor, and if used in the wrong recipe, it can change the taste of the dish entirely.

That is why it is recommended to use different oils for different recipes. For example, you can use canola oil for frying and sautéing, and avocado oil for grilling and roasting.

3. Storing Olive Oil Incorrectly

Another common mistake that people make is storing olive oil incorrectly. Olive oil is sensitive to heat, light, and air, and if not stored properly, it can go rancid quickly.

That is why it is essential to store olive oil in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct sunlight. You can also store it in a dark bottle or a container that can block out the light.

4. Not Checking The Expiration Date

Just like any other food item, olive oil also has an expiration date, and using expired olive oil can be harmful. Expired olive oil not only loses its flavor and nutrients but can also become rancid and toxic.

Always check the expiration date before using olive oil, and if it has expired, discard it immediately.

5. Buying Low-Quality Olive Oil

Lastly, one of the most common mistakes that people make is buying low-quality olive oil. Low-quality olive oil is often extracted using chemicals and has additives and preservatives that are harmful to health.

Always buy high-quality extra virgin olive oil, which is extracted from the purest form and is free from any chemicals or preservatives. It may cost more initially, but it is worth the investment for your health.

Conclusion

Olive oil is undoubtedly one of the healthiest oils that you can find, but using it correctly is essential for getting its benefits. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that you are using olive oil to its full potential.

Always remember to store it correctly, check the expiration date, and use it appropriately to get the most out of this healthy oil.