While shopping in downtown Stillwater, Minnesota this past weekend, I came across a unique shop that specializes in imported Extra Virgin Olive Oils, Balsamic Vinegars and Specialty Oils from around the world.
We all know that there are many health benefits associated with taking Extra Virgin Olive Oil as well as Balsamic Vinegar, however, I had no idea that there was such a wide variety of flavors that could enhance our daily meals.
As you can see from the picture below, the store is set up so that customers can sample the wide variety of oils and vinegars on tap. Not only did I buy many oils and vinegars for myself but I also bought some as gifts.
I don't really have any favorite oil or vinegar as this is a new experience for me but I will say that I love combining either the Espresso Balsamic Vinegar or the Blueberry Vinegar with the Hojiblanca Extra Virgin Oil as a dressing on my salads. This is absolutely delicious! After you start cooking with these oils and vinegars, and taste the difference, you will never want to buy any of the unhealthy prepared dressings from the grocery store again.
I have already tried two recipes from their "Sample & Savor" cookbook, Roasted Cauliflower with Orange Olive Dressing and the Peanut Chicken Satay - Fantastic is all I can say.
If you want to learn about oils and vinegars this is the place to visit. Rebekah Chapman, who co-authored their cookbook, educated me and helped me navigate through the store and decide what to purchase. She also mentioned that they will give a $1 credit for every washed empty bottle returned.
If Stillwater is not a convenient location for you, then you might be interested to know that there is another Olive Oil Company store located in White Bear Lake. I plan to visit that store the next time I need to buy more oils and vinegars.
Check out their website and blog at www.stillwateroliveoil.com. Treat your taste buds, go explore...
