How to Get Premium Olive Oil for Under £4 Per Bottle: A Money-Saving Guide
Olive oil, often called "liquid gold," is a versatile ingredient that can elevate both everyday cooking and gourmet dishes. However, its premium quality often comes with a hefty price tag, with a 500ml bottle sometimes costing up to £19 in supermarkets. This expense can be a barrier for many who want to enjoy its rich flavor and health benefits. Fortunately, there is a clever way to secure this culinary staple for as little as £4 per bottle, making it accessible without breaking the bank.
Understanding the Different Types of Olive Oil
Not all olive oils are created equal, and knowing the distinctions can help you make informed choices. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the highest grade, made from unrefined, cold-pressed olives. It boasts a robust, fruity, or peppery flavor, making it ideal for drizzling over salads, pasta, or sourdough bread. In contrast, regular olive oil is a refined blend with a neutral taste and a higher smoke point, better suited for high-heat cooking like frying or baking. While regular olive oil is cheaper, it loses some nutritional value during processing.
The Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The Mediterranean diet, renowned for its health benefits, heavily features olive oil. EVOO is rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation. The peppery aftertaste many enjoy is due to polyphenols, compounds linked to improved brain function and a lower risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, EVOO can trigger the release of GLP-1, a hormone that promotes feelings of fullness, similar to mechanisms in some weight-loss medications.
A Smart Shopping Strategy for Savings
To cut costs on olive oil, consider using subscription services like Amazon's Subscribe and Save. This approach allows you to add items like Filippo Berio olive oil to your order, often at reduced prices with an extra 10% discount. By monitoring prices monthly, you can skip items when costs rise and switch to deals on other brands, such as own-brand Spanish extra virgin olive oil. This flexibility ensures you always get the best price available.
Maximizing Discounts with Bulk Orders
Another advantage of Subscribe and Save is the ability to stack savings. When you include five or more qualifying items in your order, you receive an additional 15% off. This makes it an excellent way to stock up on household essentials like washing powder, toilet paper, and tea bags, while also securing affordable olive oil. Keep an eye on supermarket promotions too, as brands often rotate offers, providing further opportunities to save.
By adopting this strategy, you can enjoy the luxury of premium extra virgin olive oil without the high cost, ensuring your meals are both delicious and nutritious.
