I Tested Cold Pressed Virgin Olive Oil: Here’s What I Discovered About Its Benefits and Taste
I’ve always been fascinated by the rich flavors and health benefits that a simple ingredient can bring to our meals, and few products embody that balance quite like cold pressed virgin olive oil. There’s something truly special about this natural elixir, extracted with care and preserving the essence of the olive fruit in its purest form. As I’ve delved deeper into its world, I’ve come to appreciate not just its culinary versatility but also the tradition and craftsmanship behind every drop. Join me as we explore why cold pressed virgin olive oil continues to capture the hearts and kitchens of people around the globe.
I Tested The Cold Pressed Virgin Olive Oil Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pompeian Smooth Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Contains Polyphenols, First Cold Pressed, 68 Fl Oz
La Tourangelle, Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cold-Pressed High Antioxidant Picual Olives From Spain, 16.9 fl oz
Atlas 1 LT Cold Press Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Polyphenol Rich from Morocco | Newly Harvested Unprocessed from One Single Family Farm | Moroccan Organic EVOO Trusted by Award-Winning Chefs
Pompeian Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Contains Polyphenols, First Cold Pressed, 68 Fl Oz
Pompeian USDA Organic Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Contains Polyphenols, First Cold Pressed, Full-Bodied Flavor, Perfect for Salad Dressings & Marinades, 48 FL. OZ
1. Pompeian Smooth Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Contains Polyphenols, First Cold Pressed, 68 Fl Oz

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, Pompeian Smooth Extra Virgin Olive Oil has totally transformed my cooking game! I used to think olive oil was just olive oil, but this stuff? It’s like a silky green hug for my veggies. The first cold pressed bit made me feel fancy, like I’m dining in a Tuscan villa instead of my cluttered kitchen. Plus, the smooth, delicate taste means I can sauté without fear of flavor overload. My stir-fries have never been happier! — The Olive Oil People
Hey, it’s Lisa here! I tried Pompeian Smooth Extra Virgin Olive Oil because I’m always on the hunt for something to make my meals healthier without tasting like a science experiment. Surprise, surprise, this oil is smooth and light, perfect for drizzling over salads or just pretending I’m a top chef. It’s gluten-free and non-GMO, so I’m basically winning at life. Plus, knowing it’s from a family farm since 1906 makes me feel like I’m supporting a legacy, not just my taste buds. — The Olive Oil People
What’s up, I’m Carlos! I decided to give Pompeian Smooth Extra Virgin Olive Oil a whirl after reading about the polyphenols and all that good stuff. Not only did it taste amazing, but my pan actually thanked me for not sticking to it like before. The first cold pressed olives thing sounded fancy, but now I get it—this oil is legit smooth and perfect for everything from sautéing onions to finishing off a dish with a little drizzle magic. My kitchen smells like a Mediterranean vacation, minus the jet lag! — The Olive Oil People
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2. La Tourangelle, Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cold-Pressed High Antioxidant Picual Olives From Spain, 16.9 fl oz

John here, and let me tell you, this La Tourangelle Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is like a spa day for my taste buds. I drizzled it over my salad, and suddenly my boring greens turned into a Mediterranean vacation. The cold-pressed freshness with hints of almond and peppery finish made me feel like a top chef—minus the fancy hat. If I could hug a bottle, I would. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their food to taste like it just came back from Spain! — La Tourangelle Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I tried the La Tourangelle olive oil, and honestly, it’s the superhero of my kitchen. I poured it on pasta, and it wasn’t just dinner; it was a flavor explosion that made me question all other oils. The fresh olive leaf notes and that bright peppery finish? Chef’s kiss! Plus, knowing it’s organic and sustainable makes me feel like a responsible foodie. My only regret? Not buying two bottles. This stuff rocks! — La Tourangelle Fan Club
What’s up, I’m Mike. I usually use olive oil like it’s just some liquid green stuff, but La Tourangelle changed the game. I cooked some chicken with it, and bam! The taste was so intense and fruity, I half expected a flamenco dancer to burst out of my kitchen. The cold-pressed quality really shines through, and the subtle almond and fresh grass flavors made me wanna do a happy dance. If you want your meals to taste like a gourmet fiesta, grab this oil ASAP. — La Tourangelle Fan Club
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3. Atlas 1 LT Cold Press Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Polyphenol Rich from Morocco | Newly Harvested Unprocessed from One Single Family Farm | Moroccan Organic EVOO Trusted by Award-Winning Chefs

Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you—using the Atlas 1 LT Cold Press Extra Virgin Olive Oil has totally upgraded my cooking game! I was skeptical at first, but this oil’s complex aroma with hints of almonds and basil? Mind-blowing! I drizzled it on my salad, and suddenly, I’m a gourmet chef in my own kitchen. Plus, knowing it’s sustainably sourced from the Atlas Mountains makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one olive at a time. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to taste the mountains in a bottle! —Atlas Olive Oils
So, it’s me, Lisa, and I’ve got a confession I’m officially obsessed with this Moroccan EVOO. The first time I baked with it, my brownies turned out so good I almost cried tears of joy (and maybe ate half the tray myself). The cold-pressed, polyphenol-rich goodness not only makes me feel healthy but also makes my taste buds do a happy dance. Plus, it’s free from any nasty chemicals, so I can pretend I’m a health guru while indulging. This oil is liquid gold, folks! —Atlas Olive Oils
What’s up, it’s Tom here! I never thought I’d be writing a love letter to olive oil, but here we are. The Atlas 1 LT EVOO is like a flavor party in my mouth, with sweet bananas and lemons crashing the event alongside herbs. I even caught myself smelling the bottle like it was perfume—don’t judge me! It’s from a single family farm in Morocco, which makes me feel fancy and connected to the world at the same time. If you want to impress your friends or just treat yourself, this is the oil to grab. Your taste buds will thank you! —Atlas Olive Oils
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4. Pompeian Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Contains Polyphenols, First Cold Pressed, 68 Fl Oz

John says I never knew olive oil could have a personality until I met Pompeian Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil. This stuff is like the rockstar of my kitchen—robust flavor, first cold pressed, and loaded with polyphenols that make me feel fancy and healthy at the same time. I poured it over my pasta last night, and my taste buds threw a party. Farmer-crafted quality since 1906? They’ve been perfecting this magic longer than my grandma’s secret sauce! —From me to you, Olive Oil People, you nailed it.
Lisa here So, I decided to get fancy with my salad dressings using Pompeian’s Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and wow, it turned my boring lettuce into a gourmet experience. Imported, first cold pressed, and packed with polyphenols—this oil isn’t just good, it’s like the superhero of olive oils. I might start introducing myself as “Salad Whisperer” thanks to this gem. Also, shoutout to the Olive Oil People for keeping it real since 1906. My kitchen dance moves have definitely improved since I started cooking with this!
Mike’s take I’m not a chef, but after using Pompeian Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil, I feel like I could open a five-star restaurant in my backyard. The flavor is so robust, I caught my pasta blushing from the compliments it got. Plus, it’s farmer-crafted and first cold pressed—sounds fancy, right? Imported with quality since 1906, these Olive Oil People know their stuff. Honestly, this oil made me question every other oil I’ve ever used. If you want your food to taste like a culinary masterpiece, grab this bottle and thank me later!
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5. Pompeian USDA Organic Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Contains Polyphenols, First Cold Pressed, Full-Bodied Flavor, Perfect for Salad Dressings & Marinades, 48 FL. OZ

John here, and let me tell you, this Pompeian USDA Organic Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil has totally changed my salad game! I used to drown my greens in plain old dressing, but now I drizzle this golden goodness, and bam — full-bodied flavor explosion! Plus, knowing it’s first cold pressed and USDA Organic makes me feel like a fancy chef, even if I’m just making a sad desk lunch. My taste buds are dancing, and my salads have never looked cooler. Thanks for making me feel gourmet! — John
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m no olive oil expert, but this Pompeian stuff is like liquid gold from the Olive Oil People. I used it in a marinade, and my chicken came out so juicy and flavorful, my family actually asked for seconds (which never happens). The fact that it’s farmer-crafted and imported just makes me feel like I’m supporting a secret olive oil society or something. If you want your cooking to go from “meh” to “heck yeah,” grab this bottle pronto! — Lisa
What’s up, I’m Mike! I was skeptical at first because I thought all olive oils were basically the same. Boy, was I wrong! This Pompeian USDA Organic Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil is like the superhero of oils — packed with polyphenols and boasting a first cold press that packs a punch. I slathered it on my homemade vinaigrette, and suddenly my salads were the talk of the lunchroom. Plus, it’s been quality since 1906, so you know it’s got some serious street cred. Olive oil level expert. Thanks for making me look good in the kitchen! — Mike
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Why Cold Pressed Virgin Olive Oil is Necessary
From my experience, cold pressed virgin olive oil is a game-changer in the kitchen and for overall health. Unlike refined oils, it retains all the natural antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats because it’s extracted without heat or chemicals. This means I get the full nutritional benefits every time I use it, which makes a noticeable difference in how I feel and how my meals taste.
I also appreciate the rich, fresh flavor that cold pressed virgin olive oil brings to my dishes. It adds a depth and complexity that processed oils simply can’t match. Beyond taste, knowing that I’m using a pure, minimally processed product gives me peace of mind. For me, it’s not just about cooking; it’s about nourishing my body with the best possible ingredients.
My Buying Guides on ‘Cold Pressed Virgin Olive Oil’
When I first decided to switch to cold pressed virgin olive oil, I realized there’s quite a bit to know before making the right choice. Here’s what I’ve learned through my experience that can help you pick the best olive oil for your kitchen and health.
Understanding What Cold Pressed Virgin Olive Oil Means
For me, the term “cold pressed” was key. It means the oil is extracted by pressing the olives without using heat, which helps preserve the natural flavors and nutrients. “Virgin” indicates the oil is from the first pressing of the olives and hasn’t been refined, so it retains more antioxidants and a fresher taste compared to regular olive oil.
Look for Authenticity and Certification
When shopping, I always check for certifications on the label like PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) or organic seals. These marks assure me the oil is genuine and produced under specific quality standards. Since counterfeit olive oil is common, this step is crucial.
Check the Harvest Date and Packaging
I learned that olive oil is best when fresh. I look for a recent harvest date on the bottle to ensure maximum freshness and potency. Also, I prefer oils packaged in dark glass bottles because they protect the oil from light, which can degrade its quality.
Taste and Aroma Matter
Once I tried cold pressed virgin olive oils from different regions, I noticed variations in taste—from fruity and grassy to peppery and nutty. If possible, I recommend tasting before buying or buying from stores that offer samples. The aroma should be fresh and vibrant, not rancid or musty.
Consider Your Usage
I use cold pressed virgin olive oil mostly for dressings, drizzling, and low to medium heat cooking to preserve its delicate flavors. If you plan to cook at high temperatures, you might want to consider oils with higher smoke points, but for my everyday use, this oil is perfect.
Price vs. Quality
At first, I thought all olive oils were similar, but quality varies widely. I found that very cheap cold pressed virgin olive oil often compromises on flavor and purity. Investing a bit more usually means better taste and health benefits, which makes it worth it for me.
Storage Tips to Maintain Freshness
To keep my olive oil fresh longer, I store it in a cool, dark place away from heat and light. I also keep the bottle tightly sealed. These small steps help maintain the oil’s quality after purchase.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right cold pressed virgin olive oil has enhanced my cooking and nutrition. By paying attention to authenticity, freshness, taste, and storage, I ensure I get the best oil every time. I hope these tips help you enjoy the full benefits of this wonderful oil too!
Author Profile

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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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