Olio Nuovo: The Season’s Freshest EVOO
Note: Olio Nuovo is the first olive oil available after harvest. It is typically available in stores and in our online shop in late fall through early winter. Join us in-store for a special event to Celebrate the Harvest. Learn more.
What is olio nuovo?
Olio Nuovo, or “new oil”, is the first extra virgin olive oil off the press each season. Ordinarily, olive oil is stored for a couple of months before bottling to let the sediment fall to the bottom and to allow the flavors to mellow. Olio Nuovo is picked, pressed and bottled right away to create a brilliant green oil with bold, fresh flavors. This new oil is the harbinger of the harvest season in Italy and is celebrated and used lavishly during this time of year.
How should I use it?
Olio Nuovo is different from other extra virgin olive oils because of the way it’s made. It typically has stronger flavors and extra pungency because it is the very freshest olive oil you can find. One of our favorite ways to savor this once-a-year treat is to do as the Italians do! Grill thick slices of bread until crisp and toasty, pour your fresh olio Nuovo all over the bread then add a few pinches of coarse sea salt. Pour a glass of wine and enjoy! It’s also delicious mixed with good quality aged balsamic vinegar over salads, it’s perfect for spicing up roasted veggies and it’s a fantastic finishing oil for soups, pasta and more. For more recipes and tips for using Olio Nuovo, visit our Recipes section and search “Olio Nuovo”.
How should I store my Olio Nuovo?
Olio Nuovo is the freshest olive oil available and is not meant to be kept long. It’s made to be enjoyed as a seasonal treat, much like Beaujolais Nouveau wine of France. It is more perishable than other extra virgin olive oils which have been allowed to settle before bottling. Olio Nuovo typically has a shelf life of 3 – 6 months where other extra virgin olive oil can keep for about 18 months if stored properly. Store any extra virgin olive oil in a cool, dark cabinet away from heat and light, preferably in a dark-colored bottle.
How to pair Olio Nuovo with food
Olio Nuovo‘s robust, green notes make it a beautiful addition to many different dishes. Its assertive profile works best with rich or boldly flavored dishes. Following are our favorite foods to pair with this super fresh olive oil.
Creamy Cheeses + Olio Nuovo
Creamy cheeses (think mozzarella, burrata, and ricotta) are a perfect vehicle to let the complex flavors of Olio Nuovo shine.
Why it works: The richness of the cheese provides balance to the robust boldness of the oil.
Pro tip: Put a dipping dish of Olio Nuovo on a holiday cheese board and taste the oil with your favorite cheeses. We also love it with a top-quality Parmigiano-Reggiano or a nutty Manchego and some toasted baguette.
Roasted Veggies & Fall Fruits + Olio Nuovo
Roasted vegetables like carrot, butternut squash and sweet potato along with sliced, raw fall fruits like apples, pears, and persimmons work beautifully drizzled with Olio Nuovo.
Why it works: The subtle sweetness is the perfect foil for the grassy, bitter notes in the oil.
Pro tip: Drizzle a baked apple or poached pear with Olio Nuovo, honey and sea salt for an almost caramel-like treat.
Roasted Meats + Olio Nuovo
Holiday roasts are delicious with Olio Nuovo.
Why it works: Heartier meats with rich flavors are complemented by the peppery complexities of the oil.
Pro tip: Get the best quality beef or lamb for a roast that you can find. Season simply with Olio Nuovo, salt and pepper before roasting. Serve sliced with more oil, salt, and pepper. Savor the simplicity and the flavor!
Or try one of the delicious, seasonal recipes below.
Ricotta with Fresh Herbs & Olio Nuovo
Roasted Delicata Squash with Fried Sage & Burrata
Creamy White Beans with Olio Nuovo & Rosemary
Turkey White Bean Soup with Olio Nuovo
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