Athena's Gift

Olives and Olive Oil

Ancient Athena, goddess of wisdom, was challenged by Poseidon to provide the Greeks with the most useful divine gift. He produced warhorses, but Athena won with her creation, the olive tree. This versatile fruit and its oil has been found to reduce cholesterol as well as impart its distinctive taste to Mediterranean cuisine. Good olive oil is as revered as fine wine. Here are some olive-related links to guide you in your journey through this wonderful part of Greek cuisine!

Recent research has indicated that the Mediterranean diet is heart-healthy and can contribute to longevity. The olive oil companies are perhaps justifiably proud of their contributions. There are many reasons why virgin olive oil is good for you. You can apply this information by enjoying Greek olive oil in a tasty appetizer recipe from Sean Wenzel.

Wild and cultivated olive trees cover the Greek hills with their pale, grey-green foliage. The Messinia prefecture is where Kalamata is located and where olives thrive especially well.

If you're confused about the dizzying, delicious olives to choose between, the online magazine Epicurious defines kalamata olives. The Tassos Olive Oil website also has a blog of questions and answers about olive oil - including the answer to "Why is Olive Oil green?" - or not!

The Italian Museo dell'Olivo gives some fascinating history about the olive. "It has been estimated that every adult citizen going to the gymnasium used as much as 55 liters (14.3 gallons) of oil annually, as follows:
for personal hygiene : 3O liters (7.8 gal)
for diet : 2O liters (5.2 gal)
as a lubricant or for lighting : 3 liters (3.2 qt)
for ritual uses : 2 liters (2.1 qt)
as a medicament : 0,5 liters (1.1 pt) "

Have flavorful, healthful fun sampling the olives and olive oils of Greece!
Greek Olive Oils - Top Picks to Buy Online

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