How to Taste Test Olive Oil {Plus an Easy, Yummy Appetizer}

This post brought to you by Carapelli. All opinions are 100% mine.

On our trip to Italy last year, my husband and I learned a lot about the history and culture of Italians. I also learned that olive oil should be stored in a green glass bottle- I don’t even know how that piece of info stuck out to me- sometimes the random things are most memorable!

But did you know there is an artistic method of tasting olive oil just as there is for wine tasting? I had no idea! Last week I was sent a bottle of Carapelli’s Olive Oil to “taste test”. They say in order to have the true olive oil tasting experience, you should do the following:

Pour about a tablespoon of olive oil into your glass and gently warm it by covering the glass with one hand and holding the bowl of the glass in the other. Then, follow the 4 S’s– Swirl, Sniff, Slurp and Swallow

1. Swirl – By swirling the olive oil in your glass, you release the molecules that contain the aroma.

2. Sniff – Inhale deeply. The aroma is the key to the fruitiness. Is it intense or is it more subtle?

3. Slurp – Sip the oil while “sipping” in a bit of air. This slurping action helps spread the oil throughout your mouth. Take note of the various tastes and sensations. Is it fruity, peppery, smooth?

4. Swallow – Once you swallow the oil, it should leave your mouth with no aftertaste.

Who would have thought there was a proper method?

I have a really easy appetizer recipe that is simple to whip up and sure to please your crowd, inspired by the appetizer they serve at Macaroni Grill.

All you need is some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, crushed black pepper and some sliced bread.

Simply brush each piece of bread with olive oil, drizzle the vinegar  then sprinkle the pepper.

Serve and enjoy!

OPTIONAL: Garnish this with some fresh basil and/or sun-dried tomatoes for even more added flavor!

Carapelli Olive Oil has its headquarters right outside the beautiful city of Florence, one of my favorite places in Italy! They have been making olive oil since 1893 and would like you to see for yourself why they are Italy’s #1 makers of Extra Virgin Olive Oil. They are offering everyone a $1.00 OFF coupon at www.CarapelliUSA.com