Olive oil is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, from salads to main dishes and even desserts. Here are some delicious recipes that feature olive oil:

 

1. **Classic Mediterranean Salad**

**Ingredients:**
- 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle with feta cheese and serve immediately.

 

### 2. **Garlic Olive Oil Pasta**

**Ingredients:**
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

**Instructions:**
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

 

### 3. **Roasted Vegetables with Olive Oil**

**Ingredients:**
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, and zucchini.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the olive oil mixture over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
5. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
7. Serve warm as a side dish or over quinoa or rice for a main dish.

 

### 4. **Olive Oil Cake**

**Ingredients:**
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Gradually add the olive oil, milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the egg mixture, mixing until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

 

### 5. **Olive Oil and Herb Bread Dip**

**Ingredients:**
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crusty bread for serving

**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping.

These recipes showcase the versatility of olive oil, whether you're using it as a dressing, a cooking medium, or even in baking. Enjoy!