Extra Virgin Olive Oil in Cooking: Debunking the Myth of the Low Smoke Point

Frantoi Cutrera extra virgin olive oil is not only a symbol of Sicily, but also a precious ally in the kitchen. Too often, we hear that EVOO shouldn't be used for cooking because it has a low smoke point. Nothing could be further from the truth. Let's discover together why Frantoi Cutrera oil is perfect for cooking, frying, and enhancing any dish, preserving all the flavor and benefits of freshly pressed olives.

What is the smoke point and why does it matter in cooking?

The smoke point is the temperature at which a fat begins to smoke and deteriorate. From that point, the oil loses some of its nutritional value and can release unpleasant substances like acrolein. However, not all oils react the same way: some types, such as Frantoi Cutrera extra virgin olive oil , resist heat surprisingly well.

The smoking point depends on several factors:

• The quality of the oil and the presence of natural antioxidants;
• The degree of free acidity;
• The freshness and the type of processing (cold pressing);
• The content of saturated, mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Thanks to early harvesting and pressing within a few hours , Frantoi Cutrera oil maintains a very low acidity level and extremely high thermal stability. This also makes it ideal for cooking and light frying.

Smoke point of Frantoi Cutrera EVO oil: real data

The smoke point of Frantoi Cutrera extra virgin olive oil ranges from 180°C to 210°C , but can reach over 220°C if the oil is particularly fresh and has an acidity level of less than 0.3%. These values ​​place it among the most heat-stable oils.

As you can see, high-quality EVO oil like Frantoi Cutrera's performs excellently even when cooked, offering greater resistance than many seed oils.

Myth to dispel: "Extra virgin olive oil is not for frying."

Many believe that extra virgin olive oil is unsuitable for frying. In reality, the opposite is true: Frantoi Cutrera oil is rich in polyphenols and vitamin E , substances that counteract oxidation and make the oil more stable even at high temperatures. Studies show that during frying, quality EVOO releases fewer harmful compounds than seed oils.

The result? Lighter, golden-brown fried foods with a unique aroma, enhanced by the Sicilian oil.

How to fry properly with Frantoi Cutrera oil

By following a few simple rules, you can get crispy and healthy fried foods:

• Use only fresh Frantoi Cutrera oil , with acidity lower than 0.4%;
• Do not exceed 190°C to maintain the optimal smoking point;
• Avoid reusing oil too many times;
• Dry food thoroughly to avoid splashes and temperature drops;
• Fry in moderate quantities to prevent the oil from degrading quickly.

By doing this, you will be able to enjoy fragrant and genuine fried food, with the true flavour of Frantoi Cutrera oil .

Why Frantoi Cutrera oil resists heat better

There are three characteristics that make Frantoi Cutrera products exceptional even when cooked:

• A composition rich in oleic acid , stable to heat;
• The natural presence of antioxidants that protect the structure of the oil;
• The low content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which reduce thermal degradation.

This perfect balance allows for healthy cooking and frying, respecting Mediterranean culinary tradition but with the guarantee of an authentic and controlled Sicilian product.

Filtration and storage: two secrets to maintaining a high smoke point

Unfiltered oil tends to degrade more quickly when heated due to residues of olive pulp. This is why Frantoi Cutrera filtered oil is the ideal choice for cooking: pure, clear, and stable even above 200°C.

To maintain the quality and high smoke point of the oil, remember to:

• Keep bottles away from direct light and heat sources;
• Store between 14°C and 18°C;
• Use dark glass or stainless steel bottles;
• Always close tightly after use.

Frantoi Cutrera oil in every type of cooking

Frantoi Cutrera extra virgin olive oil is incredibly versatile: it retains aroma and sweetness even after prolonged cooking. Here's how it performs with the main preparation methods.

Nutritional benefits even after cooking

Contrary to popular belief, cooking with Frantoi Cutrera oil doesn't mean sacrificing its benefits. Studies show that, even after cooking, some of the polyphenols, vitamin E, and essential nutrients remain. They bind to foods, enriching their flavor and increasing digestibility.

Using Frantoi Cutrera oil in the pan, in the oven, or for light frying means choosing quality, health, and Sicilian authenticity .

Conclusion: The myth of the low smoke point is over.

The truth is clear: Frantoi Cutrera extra virgin olive oil has a high smoke point and an aromatic profile that makes it perfect for cooking. Choosing it means combining flavor and health, while respecting the land and Sicilian olive oil tradition.

Use it in the kitchen every day to enhance meat, fish, vegetables, and light fried dishes. With Frantoi Cutrera, you bring more than just a condiment to the table: you bring an authentic passion for Sicilian extra virgin olive oil .

Discover the full range of Frantoi Cutrera EVO oils now »