What's 3 Tbls Olive Oil Used For? Cooking Guide

Olive oil is a versatile and essential ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Three tablespoons of olive oil can be used in a variety of dishes, from sautéing vegetables to making salad dressings. In this guide, we will explore the different uses of 3 tablespoons of olive oil and provide you with some tips and recipes to get the most out of this ingredient.

Cooking with Olive Oil

When it comes to cooking with olive oil, it’s essential to choose the right type of oil for the job. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is ideal for low-heat cooking, dressings, and marinades, while regular olive oil is better suited for high-heat cooking. Three tablespoons of olive oil can be used to sauté a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, meats, and seafood. For example, you can use 3 tablespoons of olive oil to sauté sliced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a delicious and healthy stir-fry.

Sautéing Vegetables

Sautéing vegetables with olive oil is a great way to bring out their natural flavors and textures. To sauté vegetables with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, simply heat the oil in a pan over medium heat, add your desired vegetables, and cook until they’re tender and lightly browned. Some popular vegetables to sauté with olive oil include:

• Spinach
• Bell peppers
• Mushrooms
• Zucchini
• Eggplant

Making Salad Dressings

Olive oil is also a key ingredient in many salad dressings. Three tablespoons of olive oil can be used to make a variety of dressings, from classic vinaigrettes to creamy sauces. To make a simple vinaigrette, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also add other ingredients, such as minced garlic, Dijon mustard, or chopped herbs, to give your dressing more flavor.

Classic Vinaigrette Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe for a classic vinaigrette using 3 tablespoons of olive oil:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon black pepper

To make the vinaigrette, simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. You can adjust the amount of lemon juice and seasonings to taste.

Marinating Meats and Seafood

Olive oil can also be used to marinate meats and seafood, adding flavor and moisture to these ingredients. Three tablespoons of olive oil can be used to marinate a variety of ingredients, including chicken, beef, pork, and seafood. To marinate with olive oil, simply combine the oil with your desired seasonings and ingredients, such as garlic, herbs, and lemon juice, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Marinade Recipe for Chicken

Here’s a simple recipe for a marinade using 3 tablespoons of olive oil:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon black pepper

To make the marinade, simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Place your chicken in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.