Cooking with grapeseed oil offers many benefits over traditional cooking oils such as olive oil and canola oil. While relatively new to the US and Canadian market, this oil has been enjoyed for its health benefits in Europe for many years. Known for health-supporting benefits, superior cooking properties and versatility, it is an excellent choice for all-around cooking needs. This article will explore three important reasons why it is the cooking oil of choice.



* grapeseed oil is a healthy food. It is low in saturated fat and high in polyunsaturated fat (Omega-6) which is known to have significant effect in raising good (HDL) cholesterol and lowering bad (LDL) cholesterol. Omega 6, also known as linoleic acid, is not manufactured by the body and must be consumed in our food or through supplementation. At around 72 percent linoleic acid, using it in place of traditional cooking oils can help improve cardiovascular health while providing a great taste to foods. It also contains Vitamin E, and bioflavonoids known as proanthocyanadins, which are among the most powerful known natural antioxidants.

* grapeseed oil is perhaps the most versatile cooking oil available. With a light, wonderful flavor that could be described as "slightly nutty" in character, this oil blends well with more foods than most other oils. It is excellent as a dipping oil, delicious on pastas, perfect for sauteing and stir-frying, and can be used as the primary oil in salad dressings and marinades. It is often used as a base for infusing with garlic and other herbs and spices. Excellent emulsification properties make it ideal for whipping mayonnaise and creamy dressings that you do not want to separate when chilled. The light, subtle flavor will complement any dish without adding an overpowering flavor. It has long been a favorite of gourmet chefs who appreciate its light, nutty, and versatile character.

* grapeseed oil has outstanding cooking properties. It boasts the highest flashpoint of any cooking oil, at approximately 420 F. This means less smoke and reduced danger of burning and free radical production, making it safe for use in cooking at high temperatures. You can saute, fry, stir fry, or bake and not be concerned with smoking, splattering or burning. Foods cooked with it do not seem greasy like those cooked in other oils. Normal cooking requires only about half the amount of oil to achieve the same results as cooking with other oils. It should be stored in a cool, dark place, and may be stored in the refrigerator without becoming cloudy.

Grapeseed oil is the cooking oil of choice for frying, blending, creating, and complementing a host of different foods. No other oil combines flavor, versatility, and health benefits in such a delightful way. It is pressed from grape seeds after wine production. It is environmentally friendly because it requires no new farmland or water to produce. Try it with your favorite dishes - you will soon discover why it is enjoying a rapid rise in popularity in North America.