Pairing Party: 10 Unique Oil & Vinegar Combos
1. Spanish “Melgarejo” Arbequina Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Serrano Honey Vinegar
Use it: Create a vinaigrette using the mild, fruity late harvest Melgarejo Arbequina and spicy, but sweet Serrano Honey vinegar. Drizzle over a watermelon and feta stack for a distinctive and refreshing treat.
2. Persian Lime Olive Oil & Coconut White Balsamic
Use it: Marinade shrimp in this citrusy, sweet flavor and bring a summertime feel to shrimp salad or grilled shrimp kabobs.
3. Basil Olive Oil & Strawberry Balsamic
Use it: Drizzled over a Caprese stack, this pair will add a hint of sweetness to the classic Italian salad. Want to make it a meal? Top a juicy burger with the stack in the last minute of grilling then add the oil & vinegar combo to a freshly grilled bun for a nice twist on a BBQ classic.
4. Butternut Squash Seed Oil & Dark Chocolate Balsamic
Use it: Mixed together, these two emulate the flavor of a candy classic: the peanut butter cup. Drizzle the combo over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a complex dessert flavor, without the complicated prep time.
5. Roasted French Walnut Oil & Vermont Maple Balsamic
Use it: This pairing will enhance any pork chop dish. Marinate for several hours with the nutty, antioxidant-rich French Walnut oil and sweet Vermont Maple balsamic for a wonderful flavor.
6. Meyer Lemon Olive Oil & Blueberry Balsamic
Use it: Try using the Meyer Lemon oil in your favorite poundcake recipe – it’ll add a light, refreshing zip. Add the blueberry balsamic to a glaze, or simply drizzle on top when serving individual pieces.
7. Spanish Hojiblanca Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Espresso Balsamic:
Use it: This late harvest varietal olive oil delivers robust, peppery notes, making it a perfect steak marinade. The acidity of the balsamic vinegar allows the meat to become tender and the espresso flavor adds a unique flare.
8. Garlic Olive Oil & Sicilian Lemon White Balsamic:
Use it: Jazz up Brussels sprouts by roasting them – or grilling in foil – using the Garlic olive oil. Nearing completion, drizzle some Lemon Balsamic on them to add a bit of citrus tartness. Consider using this combination on asparagus or broccoli, too
9. Herbs de Provence Olive Oil & Violet Balsamic:
Use it: Brush this combination on chicken before roasting for an herby and floral flavor. This pairing also works well for roasting turkey.
10. Mushroom and Sage Olive Oil & Fig Balsamic:
Use this: The earthy flavors of the Mushroom & Sage olive oil, paired with the sweetness of the Fig balsamic, go perfectly over a pasta dish. Add your favorite veggies, too!
Typically, we recommend 2 parts oil to 1 part vinegar for pairings. Of course, modify the ratio to suit your personal preferences.
What pairings of Saratoga Olive Oil Co. oils & vinegars do you suggest?
