This past fall, the Aptos Farmers Market had the honor of hosting Fran Gage, a noted author, baker, and olive oil aficionado, as a guest speaker that included a book signing of her newest book, The New American Olive Oil. We learned how to choose olive oil, tasted olive oil (two excellent oils from our...Read More

This simple traditional Italian dish packs a lot of flavor with just a few ingredients — make sure to use the best possible extra virgin olive oil (like Belle Farms) and quality pasta. Be sure not to overcook the pasta — it’s best al dente. The ingredient amounts in this recipe can be adjusted to...Read More

I have made this cake countless times with butter. It is easy to assemble and always garners raves from guests. Now I have a new way of making one of my favorites—using olive oil instead. A delicate olive oil mimics the flavor profile of the butter version of this cake, although the oil adds an...Read More

There are many versions of this cake recipe on the internet, but I especially enjoy the version from Babbo Cookbook, by Mario Batali. It’s the perfect, not-too-sweet kind of cake to enjoy with an espresso or cup of tea. INGREDIENTS: Cake 4 eggs 3/4 cup sugar 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons finely chopped...Read More

Chocolate and olive oil have a natural affinity for one another. INGREDIENTS: 4 squares unsweetened chocolate 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, mild or buttery tasting 4 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 cups granulated sugar 1 1/3 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup nuts (optional) 1 large Hershey...Read More

These exquisite-tasting cookies are made with olive oil, a healthier alternative to butter. You’ll never notice the olive oil! INGREDIENTS: 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar, divided 1 cup almond meal, toasted 3/4 teaspoon baking soda Pinch of salt 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, buttery or mild-flavored 1/2 teaspoon pure...Read More

By using olive oil instead of butter, you are eliminating the saturated fat of butter, and replacing it with “good” monounsaturated fats and some antioxidants. A light, mild-tasting olive oil is best for cakes or muffins made with fruits or vegetables, such as lemon, orange, apple, banana, and carrots. Chocolate cakes and brownies are excellent...Read More

In addition to being a flavorful dipping sauce for warm focaccia or francese, it’s equally delicious drizzled over bruschetta. INGREDIENTS: 1 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 clove garlic, pressed 1 small shallot, finely chopped 2 small chilies, jalapeño or Serrano, peeled, seeded and finely chopped 2 teaspoons finely chopped, dry-packed, sun-dried tomatoes 2 to...Read More