As a seasoned chef and olive oil enthusiast, I've had the pleasure of sampling a myriad of olive oils, and my latest adventure took me to Aldi, where I discovered a treasure trove of olive oil brands. In this article, I'll be ranking the four Aldi olive oils I tried, from worst to best, based on their stand-alone flavor. But before we dive into the rankings, let's talk about why olive oil is such a big deal. Olive oil is more than just a cooking ingredient; it's a culinary chameleon, versatile and utilitarian, and it's also incredibly healthy. It's a staple in my kitchen, used for everything from sautéing chicken breasts to drizzling over bruschetta. The key to unlocking its full potential lies in understanding the nuances of its quality and taste, which are heavily influenced by its origin, harvest time, and processing methods. Now, let's get to the heart of the matter and explore the Aldi olive oils I sampled.
Carlini Pure Olive Oil
Carlini Pure Olive Oil, the least flavorful of the bunch, is a no-frills, heat-tolerant oil that's perfect for frying, grilling, and sautéing. It's made from suboptimal olives and olive parts, which are refined to remove pungent odors and balance acidity. While it's not a culinary masterpiece, it's a reliable choice for basic cooking tasks. However, I wouldn't recommend it for finishing dishes like burrata, as it lacks the depth of flavor needed to elevate such delicate creations. The clear plastic bottle it comes in is a no-go, as heat, air, and light can oxidize olive oil, making it a less-than-ideal storage container. Despite its lack of flavor, it's a decent value at $11.29 for a 39-ounce bottle, but it's not a bottle I'd rush to buy again.
Simply Nature Organic EVOO
Simply Nature Organic EVOO, sourced from olives harvested in Italy, Spain, Tunisia, and Argentina, is a certified USDA Organic product, ensuring strict ecological standards in its growing, harvesting, and processing. However, its flavor falls short of expectations. It's neutral to lightly floral with a faint olive flavor, but it lacks the finish and complexity that make a great olive oil truly memorable. I tried to warm it in my hands, a technique I learned from professionals, but it failed to impress. At $7.25 for a 16.9-ounce bottle, it's a more affordable option, but I couldn't help but feel it was a bit of a disappointment. While it's a step up from Carlini, it's not a bottle I'd rush to buy again.
Priano Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Priano Extra Virgin Olive Oil, a blend of olives from Argentina, Chile, Greece, Italy, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, and Tunisia, is a versatile oil that's perfect for salads, marinades, and bread dipping. It has a pleasant aroma and a smooth flavor that pairs well with other ingredients like lemon, basil, rosemary, and garlic. Its mild personality and medium body make it a crowd-pleaser, but it's not complex enough to stand out on its own. The plastic bottle, though green-tinted, is a concern, as I'm not sure it would last long enough to oxidize before I finish it. At a little over $12 for a 34-ounce bottle, it's a decent value, but I wouldn't rank it higher than the next oil on my list.
Specially Selected Sicilian Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Specially Selected Sicilian Extra Virgin Olive Oil, single-sourced from olives grown in Italy's Val Di Mazara region, is a high-quality oil with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) guarantee. Its herbal and slightly sweet scent, along with its rich color, immediately impressed me. The flavor is pleasant and rich, with notes of olive and a hint of green apple. It coats the mouth lightly without being overly thick and finishes gently with a touch of spice. This oil is a culinary delight, perfect for a three-ingredient red wine vinaigrette or a dish with garlic and Parmesan. At $11.19 for a 16.9-ounce bottle, it's a steal and a bottle I'd happily buy again.
In conclusion, Aldi's olive oil offerings are a mixed bag, but Specially Selected Sicilian Extra Virgin Olive Oil stands out as the clear winner. While Carlini and Simply Nature are serviceable, Priano is a versatile choice, and Carlini is a basic oil for simple tasks. Specially Selected, however, is a culinary gem, offering a delightful blend of flavor, aroma, and quality. So, the next time you're at Aldi, don't overlook this Sicilian treasure; it's a bottle of olive oil that will elevate your cooking to new heights.
