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April 09 2025

The Magic of Olive Oil: A Staple in Greek and Mediterranean Cooking

The Magic of Olive Oil: A Staple in Greek and Mediterranean Cooking blog hero

When it comes to Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, one ingredient reigns supreme — olive oil. More than just a cooking fat, olive oil is a cornerstone of culture, tradition, and flavor throughout the Mediterranean. At Mykonos Kitchen & Bar in Sunny Isles Beach, we celebrate this golden elixir in nearly every dish we prepare, using it not only for its taste but also for its incredible health benefits and rich history.

A Timeless Tradition

Olive oil has been a vital part of Greek life for over 4,000 years. In ancient Greece, olive trees were considered sacred, symbolizing peace, prosperity, and strength. The oil extracted from their fruit was used in religious ceremonies, athletic rituals, skincare, and, of course, food preparation.

Today, olive oil remains a staple in every Greek household and is integral to what’s known as the Mediterranean diet — a globally recognized way of eating that promotes longevity and well-being.

The Heart of Mediterranean Flavor

At Mykonos Kitchen & Bar, olive oil is much more than an ingredient — it’s the soul of our kitchen. From our classic mezes to grilled seafood and hearty vegetable dishes, its presence brings warmth and richness that ties every bite together.

Here are just a few ways we use olive oil to enhance your dining experience:

  • Drizzling over fresh Greek salads for a peppery, fruity finish

  • Marinating meats and seafood before grilling for depth of flavor

  • Sautéing vegetables and herbs to build the base of traditional sauces

  • Topping warm pita and fresh bread as a simple, delicious starter

  • Blending into dressings, dips, and spreads like tzatziki, skordalia, and hummus

A Healthful Hero

Beyond its flavor, olive oil is known for its powerful health benefits. Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants like polyphenols and vitamin E, olive oil supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and may even protect against chronic disease. This makes it not just a tasty choice — but a smart one, too.

Choosing the Best

We proudly source high-quality, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, often from small producers in Greece who maintain traditional harvesting and pressing methods. This ensures we offer you the purest, most flavorful oil — with all of its nutrients intact.

You’ll taste the difference in every dish at Mykonos Kitchen & Bar.

Experience the Essence of Greece

Whether you're dipping warm bread into seasoned olive oil or enjoying a perfectly grilled piece of branzino drizzled with lemon and oil, you're experiencing a time-honored tradition that has defined Greek cuisine for millennia.

Join us at Mykonos Kitchen & Bar and explore the magic of olive oil — a humble ingredient with the power to elevate any dish into something unforgettable.

Savor the Taste. Celebrate the Culture. Experience Mykonos.