Food That Speaks

Article Featured in Rochester Woman Magazine

Do you prefer a virgin? You may be thinking my question is inappropriate, but before I get up close and personal, I need to find out your intensions. Not to brag, but I consider myself to be superior to any virgins out there, and contrary to popular belief, my name “extra virgin” actually implies that I know a thing or two about how to satisfy.

There is a time and a place when one should save themselves for extra virgins. Let me shed some light on why you would enjoy the pleasure of my company. I was born in an organic California grove, picked at my prime, and then immediately crushed with citrus fruit to be unveiled as the high quality, full-flavored package I am today. Others describe me as innovative, medium-bodied, fruity and fabulous.

I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve engaged in several love affairs during my lifetime. I’ve paired up beautifully when drizzled over fish (grilled salmon or any white fish), frequently lost myself in pastas of all shapes and sizes, and have always been quite popular with prepared veggies (asparagus, brussels sprouts, broccoli, spinach or potatoes). I make for a luscious chicken marinade, or can even be blended with white balsamic vinegar for a splash of delightful salad dressing. Sound tempting? I think you’ve saved yourself long enough.

What I’ve heard from my audience: “A little goes a long way.”

Who am I? Stonehouse Lisbon Lemon extra virgin olive oil.

The Stonehouse California Olive Oil Company, whose products have been featured on Ina Garten’s Barefoot Contessa, produces the Lisbon Lemon extra virgin olive oil. It can be purchased for $13.99 at the lovely gourmet and specialty shop Via Girasole (the only local store to retail the product line, including blood orange and garlic oils). Visit www.viagirasole.com for more information. Better yet, stop into the store to sample any of their olive oil varieties on a daily basis.