Olive Oil Recipes: 4 Amazing Spring and Summer Ideas to Enjoy

As the warmer months approach, olive oil recipes indulge our taste buds when craving light, fresh, and flavorful dishes that capture the essence of spring and summer. One ingredient that perfectly embodies these seasons is Croatian olive oil. Known for its rich flavour and high-quality production, Croatian olive oil is a staple that can elevate any recipe. In this article, we’ll explore four seasonal recipes that highlight this golden elixir, bringing a touch of the Mediterranean to your kitchen.

From vibrant salads to succulent grilled dishes, these recipes are designed to make the most of fresh, seasonal produce and the distinct taste of Croatian olive oil. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these dishes are sure to impress and delight.

1 – Spring Salad with Lemon-Honey Olive Oil Dressing

Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed spring greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup Croatian olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the spring greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and red onion.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Croatian olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.

This refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your main course. The lemon-honey olive oil dressing adds a zesty, sweet touch that complements the fresh vegetables beautifully.

2 – Grilled Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons Croatian olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, mix the Croatian olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Marinate for 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the shrimp on to the skewers, about 4-5 shrimp per skewer.
3. Grill the Shrimp: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred.
4. Serve: Transfer the skewers to a serving plate, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve hot.

These grilled shrimp skewers are a fantastic option for summer cookouts. The combination of lemon, garlic, and Croatian olive oil gives the shrimp a bright, savoury flavour that’s irresistible.

3 – Summer Vegetable and Herb Pasta

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (your choice)
• 1/4 cup Croatian olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 yellow squash, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the Croatian olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the zucchini, yellow squash, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Stir in the fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Divide the pasta among plates and serve immediately.

This pasta dish is bursting with the flavours of summer. The fresh vegetables and herbs, combined with the rich taste of Croatian olive oil, make it a delightful and easy-to-prepare meal.

4 – Croatian Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup Croatian olive oil
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 3 large eggs
• Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the Croatian olive oil, milk, eggs, orange zest, and lemon zest. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, and powdered sugar until smooth.
6. Glaze the Cake: Pour the citrus glaze over the cooled cake and let it set before serving.

This Croatian olive oil cake is moist and flavorful, with a delightful citrus glaze that adds a burst of fresh, tangy sweetness. It’s a perfect dessert for any summer gathering.

Incorporating Croatian olive oil into your spring and summer recipes not only enhances the flavours but also adds a touch of Mediterranean charm to your dishes. From refreshing salads to indulgent desserts, these recipes showcase the versatility and richness of this exceptional ingredient. So, go ahead and bring a taste of Croatia into your kitchen this season, and enjoy the delightful culinary journey.

FAQs

What makes Croatian olive oil special?
Croatian olive oil is renowned for its rich flavour and high quality, thanks to traditional production methods and ideal growing conditions along the Adriatic coast.

Can I substitute Croatian olive oil with another type?
While you can use other high-quality olive oils, the unique flavour of Croatian olive oil adds a distinctive taste that’s hard to replicate.

How should I store Croatian olive oil?
Store it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat, to preserve its flavour and quality.

What are the health benefits of using olive oil in recipes?
Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a nutritious choice for cooking and dressing.

Can I use Croatian olive oil for frying?
Yes, Croatian olive oil can be used for frying, but it’s best suited for medium-heat cooking to maintain its delicate flavour and health benefits.