CRETAN Early Harvest Extra Virgin Olive Oil 16.9 fl. oz.

Each bottle contains 16.9 fl. oz / 500 mL of olive oil.

Olive oil from Crete, Greece, is highly regarded for its exceptional quality and rich history. Cretan olive oil is considered among the finest in the world due to several factors, including the region's ideal climate, centuries-old olive tree groves, and traditional methods of olive oil production. Here is some information about olive oil from Crete:

Varietals: Crete is home to several olive tree varietals, with the Koroneiki olive being the most prominent. The Koroneiki olive is known for its small size but high oil content, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic oil. Other varietals like the Tsounati and Mastoidis are also grown in Crete.

Climatic Conditions: The Mediterranean climate of Crete, with its mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, is well-suited for olive cultivation. The island's fertile soil and abundant sunshine contribute to the high quality of Cretan olive oil.

Traditional Methods: Olive oil production in Crete often adheres to time-honored methods, with olives being hand-picked from ancient groves. The traditional stone mills (known as "matas") and hydraulic presses are still used in some areas, emphasizing the artisanal nature of Cretan olive oil.

Health Benefits: Cretan olive oil is recognized for its health benefits, as it is a key component of the Mediterranean diet. It is rich in monounsaturated fats, polyphenols, and antioxidants, which are associated with heart health, anti-inflammatory properties, and overall well-being.

Flavor Profile: Cretan olive oil is known for its fruity, robust, and well-balanced flavor. It often has notes of fresh grass, green herbs, and a pleasant peppery finish, which is indicative of its high-quality and freshness.

Purity and Quality: Many Cretan olive oil producers take pride in maintaining the purity and quality of their oil. Cold-pressing methods are commonly used to extract the oil, ensuring that it retains its natural flavors and nutrients.

Geographic Indication: Some Cretan olive oils have received Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status or Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status from the European Union, which indicates a specific geographical origin and adherence to certain production standards.

Culinary Uses: Cretan olive oil is a versatile ingredient used in a wide range of Mediterranean and Greek dishes. It is used for salad dressings, marinades, sautéing, roasting, and drizzling over finished dishes for added flavor.

Sustainability: Many olive oil producers in Crete focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices, respecting the ancient olive groves and preserving the ecosystem.

• Berlin Gold 2022 Award
• Athena Silver 2022 Award

Mythogea Cretan Early Harvest Olive Oil, with its spicy taste and intense fruity aroma, is well-suited for enhancing the flavors of a variety of dishes. It's an excellent choice for raw consumption and can be used in a wide range of Mediterranean and Cretan-inspired recipes. Here are some foods and dishes that pair well with this unique olive oil:

Greek Salad (Horiatiki): Drizzle Mythogea Early Harvest Olive Oil over a classic Greek salad, allowing its intense fruity aroma to complement the fresh flavors of tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

Tzatziki: Use this olive oil in your homemade tzatziki sauce, which pairs well with grilled meats, pita bread, or as a dip for vegetables.

Fresh Crusty Bread: Serve freshly baked bread with a small dish of Mythogea Early Harvest Olive Oil for dipping, along with some herbs and spices for added flavor.

Seafood Ceviche: Enhance the natural flavors of raw or marinated seafood like ceviche by drizzling this olive oil over the top.

Grilled Vegetables: Brush olive oil on grilled vegetables such as eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini to bring out their natural sweetness and add a delightful fruity note.

Pasta Dishes: Use the olive oil in cold pasta salads, or drizzle it over cooked pasta dishes along with fresh herbs, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Fruit Salads: Create a refreshing fruit salad with a drizzle of olive oil, a hint of honey, and a sprinkle of fresh mint.

Mediterranean Mezze Platter: Include this olive oil on a mezze platter with dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, olives, and pita bread for a fantastic appetizer spread.

Lentil Salad: Drizzle the olive oil over a lentil salad, which can be made with cooked lentils, fresh vegetables, and a light vinaigrette.

Roasted Chicken: Use Mythogea Early Harvest Olive Oil to coat roasted chicken or chicken kebabs before grilling, or as a finishing touch with fresh lemon juice.

Feta Cheese: Serve a block of feta cheese with a generous drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of oregano, and a garnish of olives for a simple yet delightful appetizer.

Herbed Olive Oil Dipping Sauce: Infuse the olive oil with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to create a fragrant dipping sauce for bread or vegetables.

Couscous Salad: Combine cooked couscous with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil for a light and flavorful side dish.

Baked Fish: Use this olive oil to bake or roast whole fish or fish fillets, along with garlic, lemon, and herbs for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Green Bean Salad: Drizzle the olive oil over a salad of blanched green beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.

Mythogea Cretan Early Harvest Olive Oil, with its spicy taste and intense fruity aroma, is an excellent choice for bringing the authentic flavors of Cretan olives to your dishes. Experiment with these pairings to fully appreciate the richness and character of this unique olive oil.