Absolutely. Olive oil dispensers are worth it for preserving oil quality, controlled pouring, preventing oxidation, convenience, enhanced presentation, and portion control, making them a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Ever since ancient times, in countries surrounding the Mediterranean, olive oil has been widely used for culinary purposes. Extra virgin oil serves as the base for salad dressings, while oils with a lifespan exceeding one year are used for cooking.
Extra virgin oils produced in specific regions taste significantly different from those from other manufacturers. That’s why cold-pressed olive oils have reached a similar status to wines. You can choose from a variety of strengths in flavor and color, aroma.
It can be best appreciated with a hearty slice of sourdough bread and a pinch of sea salt, perhaps some balsamic vinegar.
Or, with a salad like the Italian Caprese.
To guarantee a classy presentation of such luxury food, it’s best to store our olive oil in a practical and elegant oil dispenser.
Table of Contents
- Why Should I Store Olive Oil in a Dispenser?
- What Features are Important in an Olive Oil Dispenser?
- So, Where Should I Store My Olive Oil Dispenser?
- Can I Hold Oils With Additives, such as Chillies, Thyme, Garlic, etc. in Dispensers?
- Can I Use an Olive Oil Dispenser For Dish Soap?
- Can I Put Canola Oil in an Olive Oil Dispenser?
- What are the Benefits of an Olive Oil Dispenser?
- Final Thoughts
Why Should I Store Olive Oil in a Dispenser?
It’s so important to store your olive oil away in a suitable, air-tight container. Light, heat, and oxygen are the greatest enemies of olive oil, otherwise, even the highest-class EVOO will turn rancid (with a waxy smell, like a crayon or old walnuts – no good!).
Exposing olive oil to excess light will result in a chemical reaction with the chlorophyll contained in the olive, called photooxidation. The reaction destabilizes the oil and results in the oil quality decreasing.
Similarly, with heat. You should store your oil in a heat-proof, or even a dark-tinted bottle, most of all – away from direct sunlight or stoves.
The tricky part is avoiding oxidation because the moment you open a bottle, the air floods in immediately. What you can do is choose a bottle with an air-tight spout, or even a lid/cork if you decide to store it away for longer periods.
What Features are Important in an Olive Oil Dispenser?
Material
You can choose from:
Glass bottles either clear or color-tinted
A classical way of storing olive oil, if you choose a darker bottle, you will lower the risk of your olive oil catching too much light, which will prolong its shelf-life
Plastic bottles
If you are an immense olive oil lover, then your olive oils probably empty fast. In this case, plastic bottles are a good choice. Otherwise, if you use olive oil sparingly, and need to store your EVOO longer, then we advise glass bottles instead.
Stainless steel and ceramic
These models block sunlight even more effectively than the other types, so if you want to store your oils for extended lengths of time, then this is your best bet.
Drip-free Spout
This is a really important feature when it comes to olive oil dispensers – you don’t want the oil to be running down the bottle, and making your dining table all greasy. Especially the tablecloth – not fun washing it out!
The best olive oil cruets are usually equipped with such mechanisms.
A Cork or Cap – for Longer Storage
If you have just purchased a year’s supply of your favorite olive oil brand, exported especially from Italy, then we are guessing you don’t want it to go to waste. Check whether your dispenser comes with an air-tight cork and cap in the set.
Easy Cleaning
It’s handy to choose containers that are dishwasher-proof, and where the neck of the bottle is a bit wider, which makes cleaning so much easier!
Simple Dosing
If you are very careful about measuring out your olive oil for recipes, or just to cut down on calories, then go for dispensers with either:
- A graduated oil reservoir
- A spray
This way you can dose out just enough to ensure a full flavor, without sabotaging your diet. Sprays are actually a great solution, especially when it comes to sautéing – if you want to use just a dash of oil.
So, Where Should I Store My Olive Oil Dispenser?
The best place for storing is tucked away on a dark shelf, away from direct sunlight and heat. If you insist on keeping your oil handy near the stove, then we suggest going for darker tinted glass, or best ceramic or steel.
The latter has the advantage of keeping the oil additionally cool. Oil should be stored best at room temperature; anything above may cause it to lose its qualities and flavor.
Can I Hold Oils With Additives, such as Chillies, Thyme, Garlic, etc. in Dispensers?
Yes, of course! For this cause, we suggest:
- Clear glass dispensers
- With a special filter inside
The glass will make your oil dispenser a work of art when you stuff it with herbs and spices. This looks just so good on a dining table or kitchen counter! Create your collection!
It’s also handy, but not compulsory to choose a dispenser with an inside filter so that you will pour out only flavored oil, without the spices themselves.
Can I Use an Olive Oil Dispenser For Dish Soap?
Using an olive oil dispenser for dish soap is not advisable. These dispensers are designed for oils and may not be suitable for other liquids due to potential compatibility issues and differences in viscosity.
It’s recommended to use dedicated containers for different types of liquids to maintain functionality and prevent cross-contamination.
Can I Put Canola Oil in an Olive Oil Dispenser?
Yes, you can put canola oil in an olive oil dispenser. Olive oil dispensers are generally versatile and can be used for various liquid oils, including canola oil.
By cleaning the dispenser thoroughly and being mindful of any potential flavor residue, you can use an olive oil dispenser for canola oil without any issues.
What are the Benefits of an Olive Oil Dispenser?
The benefits of using an olive oil dispenser include:
- Preserves oil quality by protecting it from light, heat, and air.
- Enables controlled pouring for precise drizzling without spills.
- Prevents oxidation with airtight seals or spouts.
- Provides convenient access to olive oil for everyday cooking.
- Features drip-free mechanisms to prevent messy spills.
- Facilitates easy cleaning with dishwasher-proof containers and wide necks.
- Offers the versatility to hold flavored oils with additives.
- Some models include airtight corks or caps for longer oil storage.
Final Thoughts
Consider whether you are strict on your diet, or abundant in using olive oil and vinegar – there is definitely some clever spout design out there adapted to your dosing. The same goes for measurement indicators on the bottles – it all depends on your needs!
At times, it’s best to look at the functionality of a piece carefully, the appearance is important, however, if you want to create flavored oils, best if the dispenser has a filter, to avoid having a mouth full of chilies (for example).
Also, if you like to get creative in your kitchen with oils, then a transparent and simple form will suit you best. Store your bottles with peppers, garlic cloves, rosemary, thyme, or sage… let your imagination run wild.
Whether you’re a meticulous home chef or someone who appreciates the aesthetic appeal of a well-designed kitchen, the benefits of an olive oil dispenser make it a worthwhile addition to your cooking arsenal.
