Fustini's Oils and Vinegarshttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/2024-03-29T04:49:06+00:00Elevate Your Dessert with Oils & Vinegars2023-09-29T21:14:05+00:002024-03-29T00:05:00+00:00Ellie Wilsonhttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/Elliewalburg/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/elevate-your-dessert-with-oils-vinegars/<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When you think of using oil and vinegar in cooking, perhaps recipes of marinades, salad dressings, and sautés come to mind. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But did you know you can also enjoy your oils and vinegars in your desserts?! </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With their versatile components and pop of flavor, extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegars can add a new–and somewhat healthier–take on favorite desserts. Olive oil in particular has become a major player in the ingredient line-up for desserts, and for good reason! </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Olive Oil in Desserts </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Incorporating oil or butter into cakes, breads, and cookies isn’t a new concept. Oil is that key that keeps baked goods and desserts moist with great texture and delicious flavor. Without it, desserts end up flat, dry, and lacking flavor. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When swapping out that canola oil or vegetable oil that lacks flavor and nutrition, extra virgin olive oil carries with it exciting flavor and added health benefits. Desserts are just one of the many olive oil uses. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Olive Oil Cake</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In fact, olive oil cake is an easy and delicious dessert that highlights the dynamic flavor of the extra virgin olive oil. This simple base can be upgraded with different fruits or other sweet ingredients to make an easy dessert. Check out </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipe-search/?p=olive+oil+cake"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fustini’s recipe page</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to find inspiration for an olive oil cake–such as sweet</span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/lemon--rosemary-olive-oil-cake"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Almond Pear olive oil cake</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or savory </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/almond-pear-olive-oil-cake"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lemon & Rosemary olive oil cake</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Short on time for whipping up a cake? Fustini’s </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/olive-oil-cake-mix_2584/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Olive Oil Cake Mix</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> makes baking from scratch super quick and easy. Just add olive oil (such as Blood Orange or Meyer Lemon), milk, and eggs to the mix and you’re on your way to creating a sweet or savory dessert. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Check out more tips for baking with olive oil in this blog article: </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/your-guide-to-baking-with-evoo/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your Guide to Baking with EVOO</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Olive Oil Ice Cream</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In addition to baked olive oil cakes and olive oil cookies, your olive oil dessert can also take a cooler direction. Olive oil ice cream can be an easy and flavorful alternative to store bought pints. While still dairy-based, olive oil ice cream gets its flavor from the flavor-infused olive oil included. For example, this </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/lemon-olive-oil-ice-cream"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lemon Olive Oil Ice Cream</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> recipe utilizes both lemon zest and </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/meyer-lemon_37/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Meyer Lemon extra virgin olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. With some creativity–and high-quality olive oil–your dessert possibilities are endless. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Balsamic Vinegar in Desserts </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And speaking of ice cream, balsamic vinegar can also be easily incorporated into your favorite desserts. Check out these easy examples for sweetening up your dessert with healthy balsamic vinegar. </span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/macerated-berries-over-ice-cream"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Macerated Berries over Ice Cream</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> - One of the easiest ways to incorporate balsamic vinegar in your sweet treats is by using macerated berries. Using any balsamic vinegar of your choice, you create a sauce by letting berries sit with the balsamic and sugar for about 30 minutes. Then, you’ll have a sweet sauce perfect for ice cream, cakes, breads, and more!</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/balsamic-berries-with-honeyed-greet-yogurt"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Balsamic Berries with Honeyed Greek Yogurt </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">- This simple and easy recipe includes just a few ingredients but can be the perfect healthy sweet treat any time of day! </span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/caramelized-baked-apples-with-walnut-filling"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Caramelized Baked Apples with Walnut Filling</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> - Elevate the sweetness of the walnut filling with </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/cinnamon-pear-dark_132/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cinnamon Pear balsamic vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in these simple fall treats. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Using Balsamic Vinegar AND Olive Oil In Desserts </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">What’s better than having balsamic vinegar in your dessert? Having BOTH vinegar and olive oil in the same dessert. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This powerful combination isn’t just for salad dressings and marinades. You can also elevate your desserts with both vinegar and oil, too! </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This duo comes in handy in particular with pies, crumbles, and more. For example, this </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/apple-crumble-with-maple-ice-cream"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple Crumble with Maple Ice Cream</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> features </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/maple-dark_205/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Maple</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and</span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/michigan-apple-white_455/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Michigan Apple balsamics</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in both the ice cream and filling, incorporating </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/meyer-lemon_37/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Meyer Lemon olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in the crust. With all these flavor-infused ingredients, the end result is a pop of flavor in each sweet bite. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/apple-pound-cake-with-caramel-pecan-topping"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple Pound Cake</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> includes the versatile and flavor-packed </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/butter_209/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Butter olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in the cake mix with an added pop of sweetness in the caramel topping, thanks to the </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/michigan-apple-white_455/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Michigan Apple balsamic vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Or, cool it down a bit with this tropical </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/coconut-lime-sorbet"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Coconut Lime Sorbet</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, using both </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/oils/infused-extra-virgin-olive-oils/persian-lime/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Persian Lime olive oil </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">and</span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/vinegars/balsamic-vinegars/coconut/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Coconut balsamic vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Check out </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/category/desserts/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fustini’s recipe page</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for more inspiration and ideas to whip up! </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Elevate Your Desserts with Oil & Vinegar </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The versatility of olive oil and vinegar makes them perfect ingredients for your desserts. Whether sweet or savory, these flavor-infused options can help you add flavor in new–and perhaps healthier–ways. Shop online or stop in one of our four store locations to discover sweet and savory flavors for yourself! </span></p>Health Benefits of Cooking with Oils & Vinegars2023-09-28T16:23:56+00:002024-03-27T10:52:44+00:00Ellie Wilsonhttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/Elliewalburg/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/health-benefits-of-cooking-with-oils-vinegars/<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are a lot of things you can do to support your health. Staying active. Managing stress. Not smoking. And of course, eating well. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And when you incorporate olive oil and balsamic vinegars into lifestyle, eating well becomes easier–and delicious! Cooking with olive oil and vinegar brings important health benefits that can help you enjoy healthy and flavorful foods. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Why is Olive Oil Healthy? </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil, is praised as a great source of healthy fats. It’s a core component in Mediterranean diets but can be incorporated into any cuisine. </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-makes-evoo-evoo-what-you-should-know-about-an-oil-unlike-any-other/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Extra virgin olive oil is graded at the top</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, free from processed chemicals. It is not processed or refined so all the color, taste, vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants it provides remain intact from the olive to your dinner plate. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Olive oil has numerous health benefits for your head to your toes. These exciting benefits include: </span></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/got-arthritis-try-evoo/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Alleviating symptoms of arthritis </span></a></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Supporting your heart with monounsaturated fats and antioxidants</span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Improving skin</span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">And many more! Check them out in </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/10-health-benefits-of-evoo-to-help-you-look-and-feel-your-best/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">this blog article</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Beyond just these health benefits, extra virgin olive oil also has a remarkably better flavor than the vegetable oil found in aisle two. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What are the Benefits of Balsamic Vinegar? </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Similar to extra virgin olive oils, balsamic vinegars also pack in a punch of health benefits, too. Balsamic vinegar is unique in that it sits towards the top of highest quality vinegars. Balsamic vinegar and Fustini’s contains no added sweeteners, thickeners, or colorings. Instead, it’s powered by all-natural flavorings and fruit purees. Check out this blog article to learn more about how balsamic vinegar is made: </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-sets-balsamic-vinegar-apart-here-s-what-you-should-know/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">What Sets Balsamic Vinegar Apart? Here’s What You Should Know</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In addition to pure ingredients and a delightful flavor, balsamic vinegar also shares numerous health benefits that are worth celebrating. These health benefits include: </span></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Assist in digestion</span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Enhance your skin</span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Manage a healthy weight</span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Improve circulation </span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Stabilize blood sugar </span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">And more! Check out our blog article: </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/7-ways-to-boost-your-health-with-balsamic-vinegar/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">7 Ways to Boost Your Health With Balsamic Vinegar</span></a></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Even non-balsamic vinegars such as </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-s-the-deal-with-apple-cider-vinegar-six-reasons-you-should-try-it/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple Cider Vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> have health benefits you won’t want to miss out on. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">From both flavor and health benefits, balsamic vinegar is a sure-fire win! But what happens when you combine health-boosting balsamic vinegar with heart-healthy extra virgin olive oil? </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How does Cooking with Oil & Vinegar Benefit Overall Health? </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When you combine two delicious and healthy ingredients, the results can be wonderful–and tasty! By incorporating healthy ingredients, such as oil and vinegar into your diet, you can help promote your overall health. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you are following a specific diet plan, extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar generally fall in line with those requirements. For example, many </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/how-to-add-evoo-and-vinegar-to-your-keto-diet/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">keto-friendly recipes</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> embrace the health fats of olive oil and are able to factor in the sweet pop of vinegar. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For those who are </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/gluten-free-enjoy-your-evoo-and-balsamic/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">gluten-free</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, oils and vinegars from </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/is-balsamic-gluten-free-and-some-other-health-benefits/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fustini’s contain no gluten</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">! You can embrace these flavor-packed ingredients without worrying about excess chemicals. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vegetarian or vegan? Fustini’s olive oil and balsamic vinegar fit right into your plan. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In addition to particular diets, using olive oil and vinegar can also encourage and empower you to choose healthier options for your meal times. Making a vinaigrette from olive oil and vinegar can be a quick and easy way to dress up your salad and bring a lot of flavor to each bite. They can also be used to swap out less-healthy ingredients. For example, in baking, you can substitute olive oil for melted butter in a recipe. </span></p>Beyond Balsamic: Exploring 9 Different Types of Vinegars2023-09-15T12:07:48+00:002024-03-28T12:15:47+00:00Ellie Wilsonhttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/Elliewalburg/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/beyond-balsamic-exploring-9-different-types-of-vinegars/<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">What first pops into your head when you hear the word “vinegar”? </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For some, it’s the distilled kind that is helpful for all sorts of cleaning projects. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Others may praise the apple cider kind popular in diet trends. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And for us at Fustini’s Oils and Vinegars, we love to think about the rich and authentic balsamic vinegar that we get to share with our guests. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you’re just entering the world of using vinegars, welcome. This ingredient in its many forms can bring significant health benefits and practical uses for all sorts of things. But it’s important to note that distilled vinegar is quite different from balsamic vinegar, which is also very different from red wine vinegar. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But first, let’s get a sense of what vinegar actually is. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At its core, vinegar is an acidic liquid that is created through fermentation alcohol into an acid. By taking a form of alcohol and fermenting it, the natural bacteria in fruits and starches start to become active with the combination of alcohol and oxygen. That bacteria consumes the alcohol component and creates acetic acid as a result. That acid is what gives vinegar its characteristic sour taste. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It can be made from many different types of liquid, as we’ll explore next. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">9 Types of Vinegars to Enjoy </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To help you navigate which type of vinegar to use for what purpose, here we share an overview of 9 different types of vinegars you might find in your house. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Balsamic Vinegar</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Let’s start with perhaps our favorite kind of vinegar. Balsamic vinegar is a versatile ingredient that can take on many different flavors and consistencies. It is made from cooked or concentrated grape must. This grape must be from whole pressed grapes, which includes the skins, seeds, stems and juice. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Then, that grape must is added in with wine vinegar and aged for a minimum of three years. A key characteristic of the balsamic vinegar is that this process of making the vinegar must occur in the regions of either Modena or Reggio Emilia, Italy. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The balsamic vinegar you’ll find at Fustini’s is also different from what you’ll find on grocery store shelves. Look at the label of a grocery store balsamic and you’ll see additional colorings and flavorings added to the vinegar for taste and preservation. But at Fustini’s all there is is cooked grape must and wine vinegar. If it’s a flavored vinegar, it’ll also include natural fruit or herb flavorings. But that’s it. Just pure, wholesome balsamic vinegar. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Distilled White Vinegar </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This type of vinegar is more often used for cleaning rather than in the kitchen. While it can certainly find its way into catsups and pickling, it’s perhaps most loved and used for its cleaning properties that can cut tough grime and grease. It’s made from a clear alcohol, which helps it maintain its clear color. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple Cider Vinegar </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple cider vinegar, and the following listed, differ based on what type of alcohol is included in the fermentation process to make the vinegar. As its name implies, apple cider vinegar is made from primarily crushed apples. However, in the fermentation process, yeast is added to turn that natural sugar into alcohol. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Like balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar comes with many health benefits due to its natural vitamins and nutrients. Some people add a few teaspoons into their water or tea to get that boost of health benefits. It’s also great in cooking and salad dressings, and even as a preservative in canned goods. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At Fustini’s, our </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/apple-cider-vinegar-with-mother_431/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple Cider Vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is made in small batches from Annurca apples and aged in oak barrels. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Red Wine Vinegar </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Red wine vinegar is darker in color, as it’s made from red wine. In fact, red wine vinegar is used in crafting our dark balsamic vinegars. The flavor tends to be fairly bold and savory due to the rich red wine. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Our </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/vinoso_447/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vinoso Red Wine Vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is a deep red color, has a depth of flavor and tends to have a lower acidity than most aged wine vinegar. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">White Wine Vinegar </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Similar to red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar is made from, you guessed it, white wine. White wine vinegar makes up the base of all our light balsamics. The flavor of this tends to be a bit lighter than the red wine vinegar, bringing a pleasant and delicate taste. Just like how red and white wine have different tastes, so do their vinegars. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At Fustini’s, you find our </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/pinot-grigio_69/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Champagne White Wine Vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> made from the easy-drinking wine. It brings a smooth and subtle sweet flavor. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rice Vinegar</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Did you know you can make vinegar from rice? Rice vinegar is a mild and sweet vinegar that is made from fermented rice, or rice alcohol. Sugars in the rice are converted into alcohol, which is then converted into acid. Often, rice vinegar is used in many Asian dishes such as sushi and stir-fry. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Honey Vinegar </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For an extra boost of sweet and tart, a honey vinegar can be the perfect addition. Honey vinegar has the base of white wine vinegar with an infusion of honey. Our </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/iron-fish-honey_497/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Iron Fish Honey Vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> elevates the flavors even more by infusing it with Michigan honey and aging and bourbon barrels. This exclusive product, in collaboration with Iron Fish Distillery, brings a nice blend of flavors. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Malt Vinegar </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do you ever have to decide between beer or wine? With malt vinegar, you can get that fermentation with beer made with malted grains. This type of vinegar typically has a fairly tart flavor that can be reminiscent of an ale. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sherry Vinegar </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This savory and tangy vinegar is made from sherry wine. It is typically less intense than red wine vinegar but doesn’t carry the same sweetness as balsamic vinegar. Our </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/sherry-reserva_45/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sherry Reserva Vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is from the Andalusia area of Spain and is aged in oak casks. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Many Vinegars: Endless Flavor</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While we sure love our balsamic vinegars, there are some other vinegars that may be worth exploring, too. Fun additions like our bright Iron </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/iron-fish-honey_497/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Iron Fish Honey Vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or the smooth </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/pinot-grigio_69/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Champagne White Wine Vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or bold </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/vinoso_447/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vinoso Red Wine Vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> can transform dishes and elevate the flavors to new heights. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pick up a bottle of balsamic vinegar—or any of our other great vinegar options—in-store or online today! </span></p>Unexpected Culinary Uses for Gourmet Olive Oil & Vinegars2023-09-08T12:52:29+00:002024-03-23T06:43:27+00:00Ellie Wilsonhttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/Elliewalburg/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/unexpected-culinary-uses-for-gourmet-olive-oil-vinegars/<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When you hear “olive oil & vinegar”, what comes to mind? </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are certainly some dishes that are often closely associated with these gourmet ingredients. Perhaps the Mediterranean cuisine pops in. A vinaigrette. A bread dipping combination to accompany a meal. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But while our typical go-to uses for olive oil and vinegar can be quite exciting, those dishes are often just the start of the many wonderful things that you can make with these two powerhouse ingredients. Here we explore both those savored favorite uses of olive oil and vinegar, as well as unexpected uses that you can try today. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Common Uses for Gourmet Olive Oil & Vinegar </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since olive oil and balsamic vinegar are both very versatile and healthy ingredients, there are so many ways you can savor the flavors in your dishes. There are some dishes that are perhaps more well-known uses for these gourmet ingredients. And for good reason! Chances are, you’ve probably used olive oil and vinegar in dishes like: </span></p>
<h3><b>Homemade Healthy Salad Dressings</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making a vinaigrette with these two flavor-packed ingredients can be one of the easiest–and most entertaining–ways to use olive oil and vinegar. This is a great way to control the amount of added sugar and salt in your dressing; you don’t need to add them at all! You can easily make your own olive oil and vinegar dressing using just two ingredients. To make a simple salad dressing, all you need to do is combine a complementary pairing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar with a ratio of three parts oil to one part balsamic. You can adjust that ratio based on your taste preferences. Shake and pour over your salad just before serving. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Check out the </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/category/salads/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">salad section of our recipe page</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to find a dressing perfect for your salad. And, to make salad dressings even easier, check out our </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/a-dressing-jar-gift-set_2360/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Salad Dressing Jar Kit</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img alt="" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/recipes/caribbean_chicken_salad.png" width="300"/></span></p>
<h3><b>Bread Dipping</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You may find it at Italian restaurants as an appetizer before the main course arrives. Warm bread slices and a plate of oil, balsamic, and spices makes for a flavor-packed starter–or snack for any time of day! While there are so many balsamic vinegars and olive oils that work so well for bread dipping, some of our favorites include </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/tuscan-herb_128/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tuscan Herb olive oil </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">and </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/18-year-traditional-balsamic-dark_5/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">18 Year balsamic vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or any </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/picual-select-extra-virgin-olive-oil-spain_2144/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">SELECT olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/herbs-of-naples-dark_291/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Herbs of Naples balsamic vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<h3><b>Marinades</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">How do you make your grilled steak or sautéed chicken taste so juicy and flavorful? A marinade! Using olive oil and balsamic vinegar, you can create a marinade that makes your meat more tender and flavorful. These marinades are full of flavor so you can massage it into your protein instead of drowning it like you need to with other store-bought products. Typically, you can start with a ratio of three parts oil to one part balsamic for a marinade. Check out the </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/category/meat-and-poultry/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">meat and poultry section of our recipe page </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">to discover a marinade perfect for your meat of choice. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In addition to these, you can also use olive oil and vinegar in many other dishes, including: </span></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Toss olive oil with vegetables before roasting. </span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Brush olive oil on bread slices for bruschetta. </span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sauté vegetables in olive oil and then drizzle with a balsamic at the end. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These are just the beginning of the many many ways to enjoy extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. While these may be the most common ways to use these flavor-packed ingredients, they certainly aren’t the only ways. Next, we’ll share some unexpected ways to enjoy gourmet olive oil and vinegar. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Unexpected Culinary Uses for Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With such versatility, olive oil and balsamic vinegar can be used in so many delicious dishes. Marinades, salad dressings, and bread dipping is just the start. Here are some perhaps surprising ways you can incorporate these healthy ingredients into your cooking. </span></p>
<h3><b>Drinks & Cocktails</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cheers! We love the opportunity to infuse that rich balsamic flavor in beverages! With a fruity balsamic like </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/west-michigan-blueberry-white_405/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">West Michigan Blueberry</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/cranberry-white_183/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cranberry Pear</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, you can add that fresh flavor without all the added sugars. Try recipes like this </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/balsamic-lemonade"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Balsamic Lemonade</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, which uses Sicilian Lemon balsamic vinegar. Try it in both cocktails and mocktails for your get-togethers! </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img alt="" height="415" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/recipes/balsamic_lemonade.png" width="299"/></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Plus, have you ever tried a “shrub”? No, not the outdoor greenery but the vinegar-inspired beverage. Check out </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/get-your-shrub-on/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">this blog article</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to learn all about it. </span></p>
<h3><b>Top Off Yogurt</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Add an extra pop of flavor by drizzling a fruity balsamic in your yogurt. “No sugar added” yogurt never tasted so good! Take it a step further and drizzle that bowl of ice cream with the sweet pop of balsamic vinegar. </span></p>
<h3><b>Get Baking!</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Olive oil can be a great and healthy alternative to include in cakes and other baked goods. This </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/apple-pound-cake-with-caramel-pecan-topping"><span style="font-weight: 400;">apple pound cake</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> replaces butter with </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/butter_209/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Butter olive oil,</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> making it just a bit healthier, too! Check out</span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/your-guide-to-baking-with-evoo/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> this blog article</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to learn more about baking with olive oil. </span></p>
<h3><b>Zest Up Cream Soups</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If your creamy soup is feeling a bit one-dimensional, add in a drizzle of flavor-infused olive oil to give it a bit of pep. This </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/broccoli-cheddar-soup"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Broccoli Cheddar soup</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> recipe includes </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/herbs-de-provence_166/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Herbs de Provence </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">olive oil to start the soup on a flavorful note. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img alt="" height="390" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/recipes/broccoli_cheddar_soup.png" width="293"/></span></p>
<h3><b>Pizza</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are some exciting ways to use both olive oil and balsamic vinegar in your pizza night creations. With the help of <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/quick-rise-pizza-dough-mix_2468/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Fustini’s Pizza mix</a>, you can whip up a dough really quick using a flavorful olive oil. Then, after you add your toppings and bake (or grill!) the pizza, drizzle a dark balsamic like </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/18-year-traditional-balsamic-dark_5/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">18 Year balsamic vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for an additional flavor pop. This works great especially with Italian-inspired pizzas with ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. You can even use our own </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/marinara-sauce_2662/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">marinara sauce</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that has Fustini’s Arbequina SELECT olive oil! </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Discover Exciting Uses for Olive Oil & Vinegar </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Olive oil and balsamic vinegar are such versatile and recipe-friendly ingredients that will have you wanting to use them in everything you make! While marinades and salad dressings are always good, there is so much more these powerful ingredients have to offer. So pick up your favorite bottles and get cooking! Check out our recipe page for access to so many great recipes. We can’t wait to see what you make! </span></p>The Best Olive Oil & Food Pairings2023-09-06T10:32:06+00:002024-03-29T02:12:24+00:00Ellie Wilsonhttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/Elliewalburg/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/the-best-olive-oil-food-pairings/<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fresh, flavorful </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils_4/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">extra virgin olive oil </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">is delicious. Food of all kinds–apps, main dishes, desserts–is delicious. So what happens when you combine these two delicious things together? The flavor can be amazing. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">That healthy and flavorful food is what we’re all about here at Fustini’s. While we get so excited when you try and love a </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils_4/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">flavor-infused oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, it’s our mission to equip you to use that </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils_4/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in your meal preparation and entertaining. Food and olive oil, olive oil and food–they just go together. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But what olive oils and ingredients go well together? While there’s an</span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils_4/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for just about any kind of food or recipe, there are some flavors that make a better match than others. Here, we explore what makes a delicious food pairing and some inspiration to get you started. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What Makes a Good Oil and Food Pairing? </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There’s a reason why peanut butter and jelly have been a classic combination. Why we eat salsa with chips instead of a slice of bread. Why tomato sauce combines tomato and basil flavors. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes to combining foods or flavors, it actually comes down to our nose, rather than our taste buds. In fact, </span><a href="https://www.foodpairing.com/the-science-behind-great-ingredient-pairings/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">80% of what we perceive as flavor</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> actually is determined by our sense of smell rather than our sense of taste. There’s a whole science behind why some ingredients are better together than others, but it all comes down to aromatic components.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example, congruent food pairings are those that share similar flavors or aromas. This can be a great tactic to create a harmonious and flavorful meal. This is like when you pair a spicy dish with a fruity flavor. On the other hand, complementary food pairings are those where the combination includes flavors or aromas that are contrasting or opposite. This tactic is used to create a more dynamic yet balanced dish. Think spicy & sweet, creamy & acidic, salty & sweet. This can be an exciting way to add layers to a pairing and create a flavor profile perhaps unexpected.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While these tactics for pairings most often relate to different ingredients or a type of wine and a dish, it can also be helpful when considering what </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils_4/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">olive oils</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> pair well with what dishes. With these pairings, the same principles apply. Create a harmonious dish with a fruity oil with a sweet dessert. Or a savory flavor-infused oil with a savory pasta dish. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Top Picks for Olive Oil and Food Pairings </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With so many ingredients to enjoy and flavor-infused olive oils to try, the pairing possibilities are endless. That variety can be such an exciting thing as you explore new flavors, try out different dishes, and find your favorites. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To help inspire you in the kitchen, here we share some of our favorite olive oil and food pairings. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">SELECT Extra Virgin Olive Oil Pairings</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While we love our flavor-infused oils, did you know that olive oil on its own brings a vibrant and versatile flavor that pairs well with certain types of dishes, too. Here we break down some favorite pairings based on the level of extra virgin olive oil. </span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils/extra-virgin-olive-oils/delicate_8/"><b>Delicate</b></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils/extra-virgin-olive-oils/delicate_8/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">These oils</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> are floral and fresh that have a light flavor, making it super versatile. </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils/extra-virgin-olive-oils/delicate_8/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">These oils</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> are often best paired with foods and dishes that don’t require significant flavor enhancements. Things like fish, mild salads, mild cheese, eggs, and seafood work really well with delicate olive oils. </span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils/extra-virgin-olive-oils/medium_28/"><b>Medium</b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With a little extra boost of flavor, </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils/extra-virgin-olive-oils/medium_28/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">medium oils</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> are more herbal and have a black pepper finish. These oils pair well with dishes that could use a subtle yet bolder flavor in dishes. Things like fish, eggs, pasta, vegetables, salads, and much more work great with medium oils. Medium oils can also be ideal for bread dipping with balsamic vinegar and herbs. </span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils/extra-virgin-olive-oils/robust_10/"><b>Robust</b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With a much bolder flavor,</span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils/extra-virgin-olive-oils/robust_10/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> robust oils</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> are ideal for dishes that can really benefit from a boost in flavor. They’re also a great fit for foods that don’t get lost in adding the more intense characteristics of a robust olive oil. These oils are well-balanced with flavor components that are herbal, spicy-green, and dominated by mint and cinnamon. Dishes that are especially delicious with these oils include beef, lamb, in marinades, stew, pasta sauces and bold cheeses.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Flavor-Infused </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In addition to SELECT oils, you can also pair flavor-infused olive oils to amplify the flavor of your dishes. While the possibilities are endless, here are a few highlights to get started: </span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/basil-crush-olive-oil_2465/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Basil Crush olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> - savory and herbal dishes, pastas, pizzas–particularly Italian. Check out dishes like - </span></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/basil-vegetable-strata"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Basil Vegetable Strata</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/blt-pasta-salad"><span style="font-weight: 400;">BLT Pasta Salad</span></a></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/bruschetta-chicken-pasta"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bruschetta Chicken Pasta </span></a></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/oils/infused-extra-virgin-olive-oils/chipotle/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chipotle olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> - delicious way to amp up the heat in a dish or to balance out sweetness. Check out recipes like - </span></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/adobo-pork-tenderloin-sliders"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Adobe Pork Sliders</span></a></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/chicken-taquitos-with-avocado-cream-sauce"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chicken Taquitos</span></a></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/cinnamon-chipotle-roasted-almonds"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cinnamon Chipotle Roasted Almonds</span></a></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/tag/meyer-lemon-olive-oil/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Meyer Lemon olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> - this versatile oil pairs super well with everything from pastas to baked goods. Use it to add a pop of bright flavor to dishes like: </span></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/apple-crumble-with-maple-ice-cream"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple Crumble</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/bruschetta-di-pomodori"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bruschetta di Pomodori</span></a></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/honey-mustard-sheet-pan-chicken"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Honey Mustard Sheet Pan Chicken </span></a></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/garlic_86/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Garlic olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> - use this versatile oil to add a pop of fresh garlic flavor to any savory dish. Check out recipes like: </span></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/caprese-stuffed-chicken-1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Caprese Stuffed Chicken</span></a></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/cheesy-garlic-pull-apart-bread"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread</span></a></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/garlic-alfredo-tortellini"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Garlic Alfredo Tortellini </span></a></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/persian-lime_90/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Persian Lime olive oil </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">- bright and tropical, this oil pairs well with marinades, vinaigrettes, and more. </span></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/basillime-salad-dressing"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Basil Lime salad dressing</span></a></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/cilantro-lime-chicken-wings"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cilantro Lime Chicken Wings</span></a></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/hawaiian-chicken-skewers"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hawaiian Chicken Skewers</span></a></li>
</ul>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Elevate the Flavor with Balsamic Vinegar</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Olive oil and food pairings equip you to try out fun flavors and explore ingredients. But did you know you can also elevate flavors by incorporating balsamic vinegars as well?! Explore our balsamic vinegars to kick your pairings up a notch, too. </span></p>Is Balsamic Gluten-Free? And Some Other Health Benefits2023-07-11T21:19:34+00:002024-03-28T08:35:54+00:00Ellie Wilsonhttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/Elliewalburg/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/is-balsamic-gluten-free-and-some-other-health-benefits/<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Gluten. It’s a key ingredient in things like bread, pasta, and cereals. This natural protein found in things like wheat and barley, acts as a binder in foods to help it stretch while also holding things together. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Yet gluten isn’t always the best option for everyone. Gluten doesn’t provide much nutritional benefit and actually can be harmful when triggering celiac disease. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whether by choice or health-necessity, finding gluten-free products can be both an eye-opening and frustrating experience. But at Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars, we offer gluten-free products that are full of flavor, in fact all of our extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars are gluten-free. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">What Does “Gluten-Free” Mean?</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The term “gluten-free” has grown in popularity. From different kinds of breads, cereals, pastas, and even beers, foods are continually being shared that holds back the gluten. Gluten-free products, as its name implies, do not contain any of the gluten protein that’s found in wheat, barley, and rye. These food products either don’t contain a binder or replace it with a similar ingredient. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How Is Balsamic Gluten-Free? </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With so much flavor and versatility? It’s a fair question to ask whether balsamic vinegars–and extra virgin olive oils for that matter–contain gluten. Here at Fustini’s, we aspire to empower people to cook healthy and flavorful foods, and therefore, are excited that our oils and balsamics are gluten-free. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Each flavor of balsamic and oil are infused with natural fruits and herbs–leaving the grains out of it. Throughout the whole process of going from grape to balsamic, the ingredients are clean and free of gluten. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In addition to the flavor-infused balsamic vinegars and oils, Fustini’s also carries single varietal extra virgin olive oils and non-flavored balsamic vinegars. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">What Are Other Health Benefits of Balsamic Vinegar? </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In addition to being gluten-free, balsamic vinegars also have many other </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/7-ways-to-boost-your-health-with-balsamic-vinegar/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">health benefits</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that makes it a great addition or feature to your recipes. Especially when you combine balsamic vinegar with extra virgin olive oil, which is also rich in health benefits, you’ve got a healthy punch of flavor ready for your dishes. Here are some other </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/7-ways-to-boost-your-health-with-balsamic-vinegar/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">health benefits of balsamic vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Improve blood pressure - balsamic can help reduce the hardening of arteries. </span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lower cholesterol - lower and prevent damage to the arteries </span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Assist digestion - acetic acid found in balsamic vinegar can help improve digestive system</span></li>
<li aria-level="1" style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Support your skin - antioxidants in balsamic vinegar can brighten your skin and reduce </span>blemishes </li>
</ul>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Enjoy the Flavor–and Health Benefits–of Balsamic Vinegar </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Not only is balsamic vinegar gluten-free, but it also brings a wealth of other health benefits that makes it easy to enjoy. With such a flavorful ingredient that is also free of gluten, you can stock up and savor your favorite flavors. So enjoy the food and flavors, hold the gluten. </span></p>Get Your Shrub On with these Vinegar Drinks2023-05-07T11:05:02+00:002024-03-26T13:50:45+00:00Ellie Wilsonhttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/Elliewalburg/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/get-your-shrub-on/<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We know vinegars - especially balsamic vinegars - are perfect for salad dressings, marinades, sauces, and much more. Flavor-infused vinegars, especially those with real fruit juices, add a pop of sweetness to a variety of dishes. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But did you know that you can also incorporate your favorite vinegar flavors into a refreshing, light beverage? No, we’re not talking about taking shots of balsamic vinegar, although that could be an option, such as with</span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/apple-cider-vinegar-with-mother_431/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> apple cider vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. But what about taking some flavorful, fruit-infused balsamic vinegars and creating a refreshing beverage– perhaps even turn it into a cocktail? </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Enter: the shrub. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here, we’re sharing all about the “shrub,” or vinegar-based beverage, and ways you can mix one up for yourself! </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What is a Shrub? </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A shrub (the beverage, not the leafy plants in your yard) is a light, refreshing beverage with very simple ingredients. All you need is a syrup made from a fruit-infused balsamic vinegar and sparkling water. To turn it into a simple cocktail, just add in sparkling wine or a spirit like gin or vodka. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How Do You Make a Shrub? </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The magic of the shrub comes from the ingredients to make the syrup. While creating the shrub takes a bit of legwork, it’s certainly worth it when you sip that refreshing, fruity beverage on a warm day. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The syrup, the core of a shrub, is made up of vinegar, sugar and fruit. These three ingredients harmoniously blend together to create a balanced fruity flavor that’s not overly tart nor overly sweet. This shrub mixture will also keep in the fridge, so you can continue to enjoy this refreshing drink. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img alt="" height="444" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/recipes/raspberry_basil_shrub_prep.jpeg" width="333"/></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are two ways to make a shrub, both with their own benefits. The hot method is the quickest. You make a simple syrup and simmer your fresh fruit in it. Then add in vinegar and simmer. Strain the fruit, and your shrub is good to go! </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On the other hand, the cold method requires more time but may bring about a richer fruit flavor. In this method, fruit is tossed with sugar and set out for a couple of days. Then, the juicy fruit mixture is combined with an equal amount of vinegar. Adjust vinegar amount as needed. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Typically, shrubs do best with a ratio of 1:1:1 for vinegar, fruit, and sugar. For the hot method, start with 1 pound of fruit, 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 1 cup vinegar. If you’re taking the cold process, start with 1 pound fruit, 2 cups sugar, 2 cups vinegar. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To put your beverage together, start with a glass of ice. Pour in a splash of your fruity, delicious shrub, and finish it off with sparkling water. Turn it into a cocktail with some booze or use sparkling wine instead. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What Kind of Vinegar Can I Use in a Shrub? </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While each ingredient in a shrub is important, we’re most excited about the possibilities with the added vinegar. Because shrubs are so versatile and can complement a lot of different flavors, the possibilities are endless. Remember that a key component of the shrub is fresh fruit, so you’ll want to pick a vinegar that pairs well with sweet fruit. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fruity balsamic vinegars like </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/raspberry-dark_94/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">raspberry</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/west-michigan-blueberry-white_405/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">West Michigan blueberry</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/cranberry-white_183/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">cranberry pear</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/peach-white_118/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">peach</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and many others can be a perfect addition that brings in another fruity element. To highlight more of the fresh fruit flavors, opt for a </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/12-year-premium-white_1/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">12 Year Premium White balsamic vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or the </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/18-year-traditional-balsamic-dark_5/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">18 Year Traditional balsamic vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. You can even try experimenting with adding herbs, either as a separate add-in or through a flavor-infused balsamic vinegar. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Shrub Flavor Inspiration </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ready to whip up your own shrub to enjoy? Check out these recipes to get some inspiration! </span></p>
<h4><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/strawberry-pineapple-shrub-ice-tea"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Strawberry Pineapple Iced Tea Shrub </span></a></h4>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Made with </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/iron-fish-honey_497/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Iron Fish Honey vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, this shrub balances the sweet fruity flavors with a refreshing iced team. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img alt="" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/recipes/strawberry_pineapple_shrub_ice_tea.png"/></span></p>
<h4><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/cranberry-orange-shrub-with-rosemary"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cranberry Orange Shrub with Rosemary</span></a></h4>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A perfect example of combining fruity flavors with rich herbs, this shrub elevates the flavor of fresh fruit, using </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/cara-cara-cream-vanilla_271/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cara Cara Vanilla balsamic vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<h4><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/raspberry-basil-shrub"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Raspberry Basil Shrub</span></a></h4>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Using </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/cranberry-white_183/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cranberry Pear balsamic</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, this fruit and herb beverage is perfect for a warm day. </span></p>
<p><img alt="" height="333" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/recipes/raspberry_basil_shrub.jpeg" width="250"/></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Start with Vinegar</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Get going on creating your own refreshing shrub beverage. But first, make sure you’ve got the best balsamic vinegar. </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/vinegars_11/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Shop online</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or in one of our four store locations to discover the balsamic that can transform your shrub flavor. </span></p>Fall Feature: How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar2020-09-19T00:22:38+00:002024-03-28T23:37:28+00:00Ellie Wilsonhttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/Elliewalburg/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/fall-feature-how-to-use-apple-cider-vinegar/<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When you think of fall produce in Michigan, one of the first things to come to mind might be apples. Whether you enjoy going out and picking them yourself or trying out all the varieties you can find at the farmers market, apples are a fruit staple for the fall season. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You might slice them up for a pie, mash them up to make sauce or just bite into an apple right from the tree. You can also drink up some apple cider, hot, iced or even frozen. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But did you know you can also get that apple cider flavor through a vinegar? </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">By now, you’ve probably heard of apple cider vinegar. It’s been praised by health and fitness experts as a transformative ingredient in living healthier. </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-s-the-deal-with-apple-cider-vinegar-six-reasons-you-should-try-it/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">In this blog article</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, we share some of the great health benefits you can take advantage of in using apple cider vinegar. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So we know it’s good for us, but how can we incorporate it into our dishes and diets? While this vinegar sure is sweet, it also carries a sharp tart bite that requires some balance in flavors. If you’re not into taking shots of this vinegar as your morning routine, you’re in luck. There are a plethora of ways you can incorporate this powerful vinegar into your healthy living lifestyle. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How is Apple Cider Vinegar Made? </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple cider vinegar has its foundation in, yes you guessed it, apples. </span><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-proven-health-benefits-of-apple-cider-vinegar#1.-High-in-healthful-substances"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The process is called fermentation</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, which brings together crushed apples and yeast. This ferments the sugars in the apples and turns it into alcohol. After that, bacteria - the good, healthy kind - is added in to ferment the mixture further and produce acetic acid, which is the foundation for vinegar. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This acid is what gives vinegar and balsamic vinegars valuable health benefits. This mixture also contains a substance called mother, also found in balsamic vinegars. This is a combination of proteins, enzymes and healthy bacteria. It also is responsible for a murky or cloudy appearance as a vinegar. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img alt="" height="342" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/blog/Blog%20-%20Apple%20Cider%20Vinegar/image4.png" width="281"/></span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/apple-cider-vinegar-with-mother_431/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fustini’s Apple Cider Vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> keeps in that mother substance to amp up the flavor and health benefits. It’s made from Annurca apples that are aged in American Oak wood barrels for a vibrant and rich flavor. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Because of its high acidic content, it’s also important to remember not to go overboard with this ingredient. Use it in combination with other ingredients and in moderate amounts. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What Can I Do With Apple Cider Vinegar? </span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With such impressive health benefits, this cider vinegar is one you won’t want to pass up, especially in this apple-filled fall season. To help you get started on your apple cider vinegar kick, here we share some ways you can try today using this super ingredient.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mix it In a Drink </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In the health craze of apple cider vinegar, you might have heard of people taking shots of this by making a drink of ACV and water or tea. Adding it to your morning tea or hot water can bring on </span><a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/apple-cider-vinegar-recipes#3.-Need-natural-energy?-Sip-an-ACV-mixed-tea-in-the-AM"><span style="font-weight: 400;">great health benefits</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that can get you started on your day. From appetite control to energy-boosting to curing sore throats, you might just want to make this your go-to morning drink. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pickle Your Veggies </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Use apple cider vinegar in your brine to pickle your favorite fall veggies. Throw in some carrots, beets and radishes in with a tart brine made with ACV. This </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/chipotle-pulled-pork-with-pickled-peaches"><span style="font-weight: 400;">pulled pork sandwich recipe</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> includes a flavor-rich topping made with pickled peaches using </span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/apple-cider-vinegar-with-mother_431/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple Cider Vinegar</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. That versatile brine can have you pickling fruits and veggies in mason jars all season long. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img alt="" height="548" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/blog/Blog%20-%20Apple%20Cider%20Vinegar/image3.png" width="470"/></span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Spice Up a Salad Vinaigrette </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With the abundance of fall produce, it’s easy to whip up a quick salad for lunch or a veggie side dish for dinner. To amp up the fall feels, add in a splash of apple cider vinegar as you make your vinaigrette. </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/apple-vinaigrette"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Recipes like this Apple Vinaigrette</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> combines the crisp flavor of apple cider vinegar with the savory notes of </span><a href="http://listemailer.fustinis.com/listemailer/link/7d4e8be5-81ac-4e9d-867a-69e26d5cf805/16130"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cilantro & Onion olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, as well as earthy </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/whole-grain-mustard_1773/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">whole grain mustard</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Meat Marinade </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The bright and bold flavor of apple cider vinegar makes it a great addition to a meat marinade, like in this zesty </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/baja-chicken-bowls"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Baja Chicken Bowl recipe</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. In this dish, you’ll combine the vinegar with Cilantro & Onion olive oil, garlic and lime juice to create a balanced and bold marinade for a flavor-rich, veggie-packed dish. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple-Fy Your Chicken Salad </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Go beyond the mayo-heavy deli spread and make some chicken salad yourself. Whether you put it on a salad, spread it over toasted bread or just eat it with a spoon, </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/honey-mustard-chicken-salad-in-cucumber-cups"><span style="font-weight: 400;">this zesty chicken salad recipe</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> brightens up your lunchtime routine. In addition to your typical salad ingredients, this honey mustard dressing incorporates the pop of flavor from the apple cider vinegar as well as savory notes from </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/garlic_86/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Garlic olive oil</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/whole-grain-mustard_1773/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">whole grain mustard</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. With surprises like apple cider, your standard chicken salad recipe will never be the same. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Take on Taco Tuesday</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With the bright, bold flavors of apple cider vinegar, you can transform your Taco Tuesday into a flavor exploration. Use this vibrant vinegar to pickle onions to pile on your taco. Add a splash to some fruity mango salsa. </span><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/taco-truck-garnishes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Check out these other great taco toppings</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> you can mix, match and create your own combinations with flavorful vinegars like Apple Cider. </span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Amp Up Your Apple Cider </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Go beyond drinking your apple cider hot or iced with a vinegar option that’s perfect for the fall season. With a wide variety of dishes and flavor combinations to try, you can celebrate the fall apple season with delicious dishes with added health benefits. </span></p>Gluten-Free? Enjoy Your EVOO and Balsamic2020-02-23T16:46:36+00:002024-03-28T02:52:23+00:00Raddhttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/sthompson/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/gluten-free-enjoy-your-evoo-and-balsamic/<p><img alt="" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/gluten_free_1.jpg"/></p>
<p>Walk along the aisles of a grocery store and you’ll see product labels with phrases like “sugar-free,” “fat-free” and “low-sodium,” the world of food communication has developed its own lingo.</p>
<p>Among these popular diet trends and eating styles, the practice of gluten-free eating has taken hold of many grocery lists. Whether by necessity or by preference, gluten-free products and labeling have soared in demand from grocery stores to specialty food shops.</p>
<p>For those who may not have adapted to the lifestyle, or are interested in exploring the benefits of these habits, gluten-free can mean different things to different people. Some are strict in their exposure to all kinds of grains, especially those with celiac disease. Some may have more flexibility in what they allow themselves to eat.</p>
<p>To help you explore how you can utilize your EVOO and balsamic vinegar into your gluten-free cooking, here we share what gluten-free means and great ways to amp up your cooking.</p>
<h5>What Does Gluten-Free Mean?</h5>
<p><img alt="" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/gluten_free_2.jpg"/></p>
<p>Gluten-free. It’s a term we hear often. Gluten is the protein ingredient that gives breads and other grain products its elasticity. It is responsible for the food’s texture, shape and overall presentation. Things like wheat, barley and rye are some of the most often heard ingredients that contain gluten. Remember that some not all grains contain gluten, including oats, quinoa and brown rice.</p>
<p>So a food label with “gluten-free” means that it doesn’t really contain gluten. According to the FDA rules, for a food to be labeled as “gluten-free,” it must contain no more than 20 parts per million of this gluten protein. Some foods may be gluten-free without actually be having the FDA label.</p>
<p>There are some foods that require no research into whether or not it’s gluten-free. Foods like fruits and fresh vegetables naturally don’t contain gluten. Others, like gluten-free breads or pastas, are produced to remove gluten in the manufacturing process. These two different approaches to freedom from gluten have different health benefits - especially as fruits and vegetables tend to be higher in nutritional value.</p>
<p>And with Fustini’s Oils and Vinegars, you can get a delightful flavor, free from gluten and high in nutritional value.</p>
<h5>Gluten-Free and Fustini’s</h5>
<p><img alt="" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/gluten_free_3.jpg"/></p>
<p>If you’re on a gluten-free diet by necessity or by choice, you can still incorporate wholesome, flavorful and nutritious olive oil and balsamics into all your cooking and baking.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/faqs/#glutenfree">Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars</a> incorporate flavorful fruits and robust herbs naturally. That means they don’t start or end with any grain products in them. Non-infused products like three aged balsamic vinegars or 11 single varietal EVOOs also don’t contain any gluten naturally or from production.</p>
<p>If you’ve ever struggled to find the right ingredients that you’re allowed to incorporate into your diet - whether out of necessity or choice - this freedom is great news. When you’re surrounded by limitations, EVOO and balsamic offer you freedom and opportunity.</p>
<p>Looking for ways and great recipes to try out as you explore the world of gluten-free cooking? Here are some fun and healthy ideas to get you started:</p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/gluten_free_4.jpg"/></p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/braised-apple-cabbage">Braised Apple Cabbage</a> - mix up your classic cabbage salad by incorporating the fresh and fun flavors by using <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/category/balsamic-vinegar/feeds/atom/www.fustinis.com/vinegars/balsamic-vinegars/cinnamon-pear/">Cinnamon Pear</a> and <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/category/balsamic-vinegar/feeds/atom/www.fustinis.com/vinegars/balsamic-vinegars/red-apple/">Red Apple</a> balsamics.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/marinated-squash">Marinated Squash</a> - amp up boring zucchini and yellow squash with this flavor-packed recipe to grill or cook up your fresh veggies, completely gluten-free.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes-nav/recipes/grilled-salmon-1">Grilled Salmon</a> - flavor your protein just how you like it with easy flavors like <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/cilantro-onion_152/">Cilantro & Onion</a> and <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/chipotle_98/">Chipotle</a>.</p>
<h5>Keep the Flavor, Lose the Gluten</h5>
<p>As someone navigating eating gluten-free, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice satisfying and delicious flavor for your health. With easy ways to incorporate flavor-infused EVOO and balsamic vinegars, you can have the best of both worlds. Living without gluten can actually be a tasty and delightful way to eat.</p>Get Organized: How to Store Your Speciality Ingredients2020-01-09T15:26:14+00:002024-03-28T21:43:33+00:00Raddhttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/sthompson/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/get-organized-how-to-best-store-your-favorite-speciality-ingredients/<p>How organized is your kitchen? </p>
<p>From shoving things in drawers to color-coding to proper placement with labels, there are many approaches you can take in organizing your pantry. Whether it’s a few shelves or a walk-in storage room, your pantry and other kitchen cabinets can get you easy and quick access to the ingredients you need most.</p>
<p>For some of these specialty food items you may keep in your pantry or cabinets, certain storage conditions help to make the ingredients last longer and prevent unfortunate food spoils.</p>
<p>To help you make the most of your pantry spaces and keep your favorite ingredients fresh and easily accessible, check out these best practices in storing your extra virgin olive oils, balsamic vinegars, dipping blends, honey, mustards and jams.</p>
<h5><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/oils_4/">Extra Virgin Olive Oils</a></h5>
<p>An important element in the quality and taste of an extra virgin olive oil is in its freshness. There’s a big difference between the flavorful freshness of Fustini’s extra virgin olive oil and other extra virgin olive oil that’s been sitting out for a while. <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/faqs/#howlong">Time is not a friend to extra virgin olive oil</a>, so like many other food products, it does have a shelf life. After about 12 months, that fresh, bright flavor begins to decrease, as will the Vitamin E content. While that specialty oil is indeed special, don’t wait for the perfect time to use your favorite oil. Otherwise, you might miss out on the full amazing flavor your oil has to offer.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/faqs/#storing">How you store your extra virgin olive oil</a> can directly affect that element of time and how long it stays fresh. To keep it at its freshest and best flavor, store your favorite flavors of extra virgin olive oil and other specialty oils in a cool, dark place. A pantry or cabinet is a great option. Exposure to heat and light affect that timeframe of freshness, so keeping it out of the sun and in a cooler area can help keep it at its best. But remember, cooler doesn’t mean the refrigerator.</p>
<p>Ever wonder why Fustini’s extra virgin olive oil comes in dark glass bottles? It’s to shield out the harmful UV rays and light from the quality oil. The darker glass helps preserve and maintain the freshness of your favorite extra virgin olive oils.</p>
<h5><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/vinegars_11/">Balsamic Vinegars</a></h5>
<p>Like a great vinaigrette, extra virgin olive oil and balsamic go together. And that includes in the method in which you <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/faqs/#storage">store them</a>. Like extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar doesn’t like light and heat. Those dark glass bottles for balsamic are intentional, too. Balsamics are best kept in cool, dark spaces. Remember to put the top on the bottle, as air can also affect the flavor.</p>
<p>One important thing that distinguishes storing balsamic from oil is that balsamic vinegar doesn’t really have a shelf life. After all, Fustini’s 18-Year balsamic has already been cultivating flavor and health benefits for about 18 years.</p>
<p>Especially when it comes to fruitier balsamics like West Michigan Blueberry or Peach, you may notice some sediment forming at the bottom of the bottle over time. This sediment is normal and is no cause for concern. It’s a result of using real fruit concentrate in the balsamic to provide that full, fruity fresh flavor.</p>
<p>You may also notice that light balsamics can slowly start to become <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/faqs/#color">darker over time</a>. This natural process is normal and is a result of oxidation. While the color may turn to more of a golden amber, the flavor and high quality of the light balsamic doesn’t change.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="303" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/organize_2.jpg" width="202"/></p>
<h5><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/pantry-items/spices_18/">Spice Blends</a></h5>
<p>As you continue to organize your pantry and kitchen space, remember to leave a space for your favorite spices and dipping blends. Organization of your spice cabinet can help you find the ingredients you need quickly and easily, without needing to dig through containers as you’re in the middle of preparing food.</p>
<p>Spices, blends and salts do well out of direct sunlight and heat sources. Keeping them in airtight containers with secure lids can also help them to retain their freshness and flavor for a long time. Whether you keep them in your pantry, a side cabinet or out on the kitchen counter, you get to choose how to best access them. Get creative and see what methods work best for your spaces.</p>
<h5><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/pantry-items/honey_15/">Honey</a></h5>
<p>Whether you use it in your tea, on top of bread, in your marinades or the hundreds of other ways, honey can be easily stored in your pantry. Simply keep it out of direct sunlight and at room temperature (such as between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit). You can keep it in the same container in which you receive it, since the decorative and specialty bottles are part of the fun.</p>
<p>As honey can get sticky around the lid, you may want to wipe off the top of your honey container every once in a while with a rag to prevent build up of crusted on honey. If your honey has seemed to crystalize over time, you can put it in a glass container and put it in a saucepan of hot water until your honey becomes crystal clear again.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="237" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/organize_3.jpg" width="356"/></p>
<h5><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/pantry-items/spreads_22/">Spreads</a> and <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/pantry-items/jams_20/">Jams</a></h5>
<p>For other pantry items, it’s best to store unopened jars in the - yes, you guessed it - the pantry. A cooler, dark area is your perfect spot for keeping your favorite spreads, tapenades, jams and mustards until ready for use.</p>
<p>But once you turn that lid and break the seal, your storing approach requires the refrigerator. Usually, the shelf life of these versatile pantry items are several months, as noted by a “best by” date on the jar. But once you break that seal, that timeline moves up slightly. Keep your ingredients fresh and flavorful by storing them in the fridge.</p>
<h5>Get Your Pantry Organized</h5>
<p>If you’ve got it on your to-do list to get your pantry and kitchen in order, use these helpful tips in keeping your favorite speciality food ingredients fresh and flavorful. The key for most ingredients is a cool, dark place - making a pantry shelf or drawer a great spot.</p>
<p>See what spaces you have to use in your kitchen and make your organization your own.</p>How to Add EVOO and Vinegar to Your Keto Diet2019-08-21T04:00:00+00:002024-03-28T18:38:50+00:00Tim Barronshttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/admin/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/how-to-add-evoo-and-vinegar-to-your-keto-diet/<p>From pescatarian to vegan to raw foods to so much more, there always seems to be something new in diet trends. Each trend or fad claims impressive health transformations that state how incorporating certain restrictions will help train your body to be healthier and feel better.</p>
<p>One such diet trend that has grown in popularity in recent years has been the Keto diet. The keto, or <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ketogenic-diet-101#what-it-is" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Ketogenic</a>, diet focuses on fat over carbs. It’s low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, designed to keep blood sugar at healthy levels and enhance metabolism. It gets its name from turning fat into ketones in improving your body’s metabolism, a metabolic process called ketosis.</p>
<p>Before starting on a keto diet plan, be sure you talk with your doctor to see if it’s the right diet for you and your health goals. These types of extreme plans aren’t intended for everyone and certainly has important risks to consider.</p>
<h5>About the Keto Diet</h5>
<p><img alt="" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/blog/picture62(1).jpg" width="100%"/></p>
<p>While there are <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ketogenic-diet-101#types" rel="noopener" target="_blank">several types of the keto diet</a>, including cyclical and targeted, the standard diet breaks down your food intake into about 75% fat, 20% protein and just 5% of your diet for carbohydrates. Variations flex those numbers slightly but still are founded on high fat and protein with low carbohydrates. While a keto diet isn’t right for everyone, it does come with great health benefits like weight loss and helping diabetes. It has also been linked to reducing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, improving acne, improve risk factors for heart disease and even reduce the effects of epilepsy.</p>
<p>When pursuing a keto diet lifestyle, for either short long term, there are key foods that you avoid in order to follow the 75% fat, 20% protein and 5% carbs. Most obviously, sugary foods like sodas, cakes, ice cream, candy and others are to be cut out or limited. With a low level of carbohydrates, grains and starches like pasta, rice, cereals and more are limited.</p>
<p>An interesting feature of the keto diet includes the limitation of most fruits and root vegetables, as these are high in healthy carbohydrates. While these food groups are obviously important to keep in your diet in order to get the necessary vitamins and nutrients, a keto diet puts a limit on such carbohydrates. Be sure you are careful to still get all those important vitamins and nutrients you need to live well.</p>
<p>This type of diet also highlights healthy fats, such as monounsaturated. Therefore, it’s important to limit your intake of unhealthy fats. Additionally, products that are low-fat and sugar-free are highly processed and should be limited or excluded when following a ketogenic diet.</p>
<p>Although the percentages of food intake may seem tricky, there are some great and easy ways you can make it happen, especially in using oils and vinegars in your dishes. In fact, we’ve even hosted a <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/events/">cooking class</a> highlighting this latest health craze. </p>
<h5>EVOO and Keto</h5>
<p>We already know that extra virgin olive oil comes with its own impressive list of <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/10-health-benefits-of-evoo-to-help-you-look-and-feel-your-best">health benefits</a>. In addition to providing essential antioxidants, serving as an anti-bacterial, preventing gallstones and serving your skin, EVOO also is high in monounsaturated fats. These fats are an important part of your diet and rightly fits well within the keto diet.</p>
<p>Incorporating more EVOO into your keto diet can add both flavor and elevated health benefits.</p>
<h5>Vinegar and Keto</h5>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-s-the-deal-with-apple-cider-vinegar-six-reasons-you-should-try-it">Apple cider vinegar</a> has grown in its own craze of popularity for its dramatic <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-s-the-deal-with-apple-cider-vinegar-six-reasons-you-should-try-it">health benefits</a>. Not only <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/apple-cider-vinegar-with-mother_431/">apple cider varieties</a>, but all balsamic vinegars come with important health benefits that can help you feel at your best, whether you’re on the keto diet or not.</p>
<p>Vinegar helps to improve your sugar balance and can help curb your cravings for carbs when you want them most. That regulation of sugars is important in the ketogenic diet, so incorporating vinegar into your regular diet can have elevated benefits.</p>
<h5>Use Them in Your Keto Cooking</h5>
<p><img alt="" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/blog/picture63.jpg" width="100%"/></p>
<p>Perhaps one of the easiest ways to incorporate EVOO and vinegar into your keto diet is through a <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-is-a-vinaigrette-five-things-you-should-know">vinaigrette</a>. This combination of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar comes with endless possibilities and be catered to exactly what you like. It’s as easy as two great flavors that pair well together, such as <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/cinnamon-pear-dark_132/">Cinnamon Pear</a> balsamic and <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/blood-orange_78/">Blood Orange</a> olive oil, <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/black-truffle-dark_397/">Black Truffle</a> balsamic with <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/garlic_86/">Garlic</a> olive oil or <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/sicilian-lemon-white_102/">Sicilian Lemon</a> balsamic and <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/oils/infused-extra-virgin-olive-oils/basil/">Basil</a> olive oil.</p>
<p>In addition to using them in a vinaigrette for your low-carb salads, you can incorporate them into so many more of your favorite keto dishes. Roast asparagus, zucchini or broccoli in an infused olive oil. Add a sweet balsamic to your bowl of strawberries for dessert for an extra metabolic boost. Sauté your chicken in EVOO and a deglaze the pan with a balsamic like <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/sicilian-lemon-white_102/">Sicilian Lemon</a> for an added pop of flavor. Drizzle a fruity balsamic to your bowl of greek yogurt to start your day off with flavor and protein. With the health benefits of both EVOO, incorporating them into your regular Keto dishes is quick and easy, and can amp up those sometimes dull dishes.</p>
<p>Thinking about the keto diet? Be sure to talk with your doctor before starting the plan. But once you do, discover how you can add increased health benefits by incorporating EVOO and balsamic into your regular routine.</p>What’s the Deal With Apple Cider Vinegar? Six Reasons You Should Try It2019-03-31T00:00:00+00:002024-03-29T02:06:56+00:00Tim Barronshttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/admin/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-s-the-deal-with-apple-cider-vinegar-six-reasons-you-should-try-it/<p>If you’ve picked up a health magazine or read a diet-related article within the last year, you’ve probably heard of the latest health craze of apple cider vinegar.</p>
<p>Various types of vinegar, including our very own balsamic vinegar, are packed with healthy properties that make it a great addition to your diet. To discover some of these amazing benefits to your health, <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/7-ways-to-boost-your-health-with-balsamic-vinegar">check out this blog article</a>. While each vinegar type has some of its own properties, apple cider vinegar has gained extra attention for its added value to your health.</p>
<p>Looking for something to add to your healthy living lifestyle? Give <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/vinegars/non-balsamic-vinegars/apple-cider-vinegar-with-mother/">apple cider vinegar</a> a try. Why? Here we share six reasons why this powerful vinegar can make a big difference in improving your health so you can thrive.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="538" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/image/Picture1(1).png" style="width: 442px;"/></p>
<h5>1. Assists in Weight Loss</h5>
<p>Being on a journey toward better health is something to be celebrated, not imposing a list of restrictions on yourself. With apple cider vinegar, you can curb your cravings and lower body weight. <a href="https://www.verywellhealth.com/apple-cider-vinegar-88768" rel="noopener" target="_blank">A study found</a> that apple cider vinegar can reduce body mass index (BMI), waistline, triglycerides and visceral fat.</p>
<h5>2. Clean Your Feet</h5>
<p>Apple cider vinegar has as many benefits for your internal health as your external. For smelly feet, you can use apple cider vinegar to control your skin’s pH and bacteria. Simply use a rag and a solution of apple cider vinegar and water to wipe your feet and free your foot odor.</p>
<h5>3. Eliminates Dandruff</h5>
<p>Small white flakes of dandruff negatively influencing your confidence? Spritz them away with a apple cider vinegar and water solution. The acid in the vinegar can regulate your scalp’s pH to reduce irritation. <a href="https://www.verywellhealth.com/apple-cider-vinegar-88768" rel="noopener" target="_blank">It’s suggested</a> to use this solution once a week and leave it in for about 15 minutes before rinsing it out of your hair. Just be careful not to get any vinegar in your eyes or ears and always dilute the vinegar before putting it on your scalp.</p>
<h5>4. Soothes Itchy Bites</h5>
<p>Put away the strong chemicals of some anti-itch creams and use apple cider vinegar instead. Create a weak solution of vinegar and water and rub on those pesky insect bites causing pain. The calming acid of the vinegar will help to soothe and reduce the irritation and itching caused by the bug bites or itchy poison ivy.</p>
<h5>5. Calms Sunburns</h5>
<p>When irritation on your skin is caused by too much time in the sun, you can still use your apple cider vinegar solution. Whether you add it to a cool bath or create a solution spray, you can calm irritation on your skin with the healthful properties in apple cider vinegar. Once again, be sure to not apply large amounts or highly concentrated vinegar directly to your skin, as doing so may cause further irritation to the skin. Always, always dilute your apple cider vinegar when applying to the skin. Note sure if it’s the solution for you? Check with your doctor first.</p>
<h5>6. Clears Your Skin</h5>
<p>When redness on your skin is caused by acne and stubborn pimples, you can also use a diluted, apple cider vinegar solution to soothe irritation. Be sure you dilute the vinegar a great deal so as to not dry out your skin and cause further issues.</p>
<h5>7. Relieve Hiccups</h5>
<p>Have annoying hiccups that just won’t go away? Try combining one teaspoon of sugar with a few drops of apple cider vinegar. <a href="https://www.verywellhealth.com/apple-cider-vinegar-88768" rel="noopener" target="_blank">With this solution</a>, the nerves in your throat are triggered and may help to control the reflex.</p>
<h5>Use Vinegar Safely</h5>
<p>Because apple cider vinegar is acidic, you’ll want to be careful about the ratios you use when applying it to your skin. While the health risks are few, be sure to always dilute your apple cider vinegar and don’t use it excessively for both your internal and external health. If you notice any concerns, connect with your doctor before adding apple cider vinegar as part of your health routine. There are some limitations as to what this vinegar should be used for. Read more about the potential harmful effects of excessive vinegar <a href="https://www.verywellhealth.com/apple-cider-vinegar-88768" rel="noopener" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
<h5>Use an Apple Cider Vinegar of Quality</h5>
<p>When choosing an apple cider vinegar to start using as part of a healthy routine, you want a vinegar that doesn’t have excessive additives, chemicals or other unnatural ingredients. Our apple cider vinegar has a bright and crisp apple flavor that’s made from Annurca apples, aged in oak barrels and has the original "mother." It goes great with dishes like vegetables, pork, poultry, salads, and of course, to drink. Say Salud! to good health and pick up your super ingredient apple cider vinegar today.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/image/Picture2(1).png" style="width: 75%;"/></p>7 Ways to Boost Your Health With Balsamic Vinegar2019-03-27T00:00:00+00:002024-03-29T04:49:06+00:00Tim Barronshttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/admin/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/7-ways-to-boost-your-health-with-balsamic-vinegar/<p>On the topic of healthy living, you’ll find trends like keto, vegan or paleo. There are diet books telling you “exactly” how you can lose that last ten pounds. You can find magazine article after article telling you how better sleep can help you have more energy and live healthier.</p>
<p>And, you can also use extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, both of which have impressive health benefits you won’t want to miss out on.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/10-health-benefits-of-evoo-to-help-you-look-and-feel-your-best">Like extra virgin olive oil</a>, balsamic vinegar comes with a host of health benefits that make it a staple for a healthy living pantry. What's even better? Combine both EVOO and balsamic to get the most of these two so-called superfoods.</p>
<p>So what makes balsamic vinegar such a healthy diet necessity? Here we share seven ways this type of vinegar can get you the results you’re looking for.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="372" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/image/Picture11.jpg" style="width: 558px;"/></p>
<h5>1. Assist Digestion</h5>
<p>No one likes an upset stomach. Acetic acid, the probiotic bacteria, found in balsamic vinegar can also help improve your digestive system and make your tummy happier. Fight against other harmful dangers to your digestive system and improve your immune system with balsamic. In this case, the probiotic bacteria found in balsamic is something that can keep your stomach feeling great.</p>
<h5>2. Improves Blood Pressure</h5>
<p><a href="https://www.livestrong.com/article/87969-balsamic-vinegar-health-benefits/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">In a study from 2006</a>, balsamic vinegar was shown to reduce atherosclerosis, or the hardening of the arteries. With this effect, it helps to lower your blood pressure levels and stabilizes them at normal levels.</p>
<h5>3. Enhance Your Skin</h5>
<p>The acetic acid, antimicrobial compounds and antioxidant properties found in balsamic vinegar can help clear your skin from blemishes and acne. It can also brighten up your skin to give you a more lively complexion.</p>
<h5>4. Stay at a Healthy Weight</h5>
<p><img alt="" height="419" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/image/Picture22.jpg" style="width: 488px;"/></p>
<p>If you’re on a mission to drop a few pounds, balsamic vinegar can help. The probiotic properties found in balsamic can help you feel full for longer periods of time, which can help you cut down on excess snacking. Substituting a balsamic dressing for a heavy, processed dressing on your salad can also help you cut calories and get your health to where you want it to be.</p>
<h5>5. Increase Circulation</h5>
<p>Your cardiovascular relies on being able to move blood throughout your body freely. Prevent blood platelets from gathering and clogging, leading to cardiac issues, with balsamic. Love your heart and incorporate some balsamic into your diet.</p>
<h5>6. Lower Cholesterol </h5>
<p>High cholesterol can be a harmful condition that can block your arteries. But with balsamic vinegar, you can lower that bad LDL cholesterol and prevent further damage to your arteries.</p>
<h5>7. Stabilize Your Blood Sugar</h5>
<p>Ranking low on the glycemic index, vinegar helps to keep your blood glucose levels normal, not causing drastic highs and lows in your energy. The glycemic level of vinegar makes it a great add for those with diabetes to avoid sugar spikes. In fact, consuming vinegar can help your body regulate your blood sugar <a href="https://medium.com/@freshharvestco/5-benefits-of-using-aged-balsamic-vinegars-bf019f09c084" rel="noopener" target="_blank">for up to five hours</a>. For insulin sensitivity, balsamic vinegar is a great addition. </p>
<h5>Savor the Benefits, But Don’t Go Excessive</h5>
<p>Like most things in life, extreme consumption isn’t always the best option, either. While this all-natural ingredient is healthy for the most uses, drinking a lot of straight balsamic may upset your stomach and throat. Enjoy the benefits, but be smart consuming too much plain balsamic vinegar.</p>
<h5>Boost Your Health With Balsamic</h5>
<p>With so many health benefits, balsamic vinegar is a great addition to your healthy diet. From your heart to your skin to your digestion to much more, you can take your next step in improving your health by incorporating balsamic into your favorite dishes, on top of your fresh salads, and much more.</p>
<p>Stop in at Fustini's Oils & Vinegars or <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/vinegars_11/">shop online</a> to find your next favorite healthy ingredient.</p>What Sets Balsamic Vinegar Apart? Here’s What You Should Know2019-03-10T00:00:00+00:002024-03-29T04:45:06+00:00Tim Barronshttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/admin/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-sets-balsamic-vinegar-apart-here-s-what-you-should-know/<p>With a variety of flavors and uses of vinegar, this common ingredient has grown in popularity for its diversity.</p>
<p>But with its popularity comes some common misconceptions about what different types of vinegar are. and what they're made out of For example, balsamic vinegar has a unique flavor and process than distilled vinegar.</p>
<p>With our dedication to providing you with the highest quality products, we’re here to set the record straight about <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/vinegars_11/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">balsamic vinegar</a>. Because believe it or not, not all vinegars have the same quality. There are significant benefits of balsamic vinegar. Here we share what vinegar is, how it’s made, what makes balsamic unique and why balsamic is the perfect ingredient for your dishes.</p>
<h5>What is vinegar?</h5>
<p>In its most general description, vinegar comes from fermenting an alcohol into an acidic liquid. That acidic liquid is the sweet, tart and recognizable vinegar taste.</p>
<p>Before we get too scientific, let us assure you that it’s really just combining alcohol and oxygen in a fermentation process that creates acetic acid and water. In this process, the natural bacteria that’s found in fruits and starches are activated. When this bacteria takes up the alcohol, acetic acid is the result. While there are different processes in creating vinegars, the general process involves creating acetic acid from alcohol and oxygen.</p>
<p>When the naturally-occurring bacteria creates cellulose, it’s called “mother of vinegar.” While it sounds somewhat odd, this part of vinegar ensures that it’s been made naturally and maintains the important health benefits that vinegar has. When vinegar is not made naturally, that healthy bacteria that makes vinegar so beneficial is gone.</p>
<h5>What are the types of vinegar?</h5>
<p>The type of vinegar comes from what its original source is - what it’s made out of.</p>
<p>As the basis of vinegar is alcohol and oxygen, some vinegar comes from grape wine that is fermented. Wine vinegar, for example, comes from red or white grape wine. Fruit wine vinegar comes from fruit wine. Rice vinegar comes from rice wine. Honey vinegar comes from, you guessed it, honey wine. Ever heard of potato vinegar? This comes from potato vodka that’s fermented. Malt vinegar is produced from beer with malted grains.</p>
<p>But balsamic doesn’t come from balsamic wine. This unique type of vinegar that’s full of flavor and taste is made from grape must that’s been cooked down.</p>
<h5>What makes balsamic unique?</h5>
<p><img alt="" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/image/Picture1(4).jpg" style="width: 50%;"/></p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/category/vinegars_11/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">balsamic’s</a> uniqueness comes from its source - the grape must. What is must? It’s the whole pressed grape, including skins, seeds, stems and the juice.</p>
<p>To ensure its quality is up to the highest of standards, balsamic vinegar has several requirements in order to be considered authentic “balsamic vinegar.” These requirements are broken down into categories based on its source and what process the grape must goes through.</p>
<p>The balsamic you find on the shelves at Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars is in the category of PGI, or Protected Geographical Indication. The grape must consists of local grape varietals from the northern region of Italy. Then, the grape must is mixed with barrel aged wine vinegar and aged. The production of this type of vinegar also must take place in Modena or Reggio Emilia, Italy in order to be considered authentic <strong>Balsamic Vinegar</strong>. As the balsamic ages, it’s stored in oaken kegs made of woods such as chestnut, cherrywood and others to add additional character and flavor to the vinegar.</p>
<p>With a focus on quality, we work to ensure our balsamic is at the highest standards, which sets our product apart from what you’ll find in the grocery store. For example, the grocery store varieties can contain unhealthy additives like sweeteners, thickeners and colorings. Our balsamic vinegars are flavored with all natural flavorings and fruit purees.</p>
<p>The balsamic vinegar we offer also has other key features that set it apart from other varieties. It has a high density, which elevates the flavor, taste and visual appearance of the vinegar. It’s also made of 100% pure cooked grape must with a little bit of barrel aged wine vinegar. That’s it. There’s no additional additives, thickeners, added sugars or caramel coloring. It’s low on sulfites, naturally gluten-free and GMO free.</p>
<h5>Give Other Vinegars a Try</h5>
<p>Balsamic is just the start of the quality products you can find at Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars. You can also expand your vinegar varieties and get a health boost with our <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/vinegars/non-balsamic-vinegars/apple-cider-vinegar-with-mother/">Apple Cider vinegar</a> or our red wine vinegar, <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/vinegars/non-balsamic-vinegars/vinoso/">Vinoso</a>. See if you can taste the uniqueness of each type of vinegar. </p>
<h5>Taste the Difference For Yourself</h5>
<p>Whether you prefer the flavorful 18 Year Traditional, a white and fruity variety such as <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/vinegars/balsamic-vinegars/cranberry/">Cranberry</a> or <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/vinegars/balsamic-vinegars/peach/">Peach</a>, a savory <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/vinegars/balsamic-vinegars/herbs-of-naples/">Herbs of Naples</a> or a sweet and spicy <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/jalapeno-lime-white-balsamic_2231/">Jalapeño Lime</a> you can taste the quality in an authentic balsamic vinegar. Discover the difference for yourself.</p>
<p>Find one you like and get cooking. Marinate, emulsify, caramelize, deglaze and much more with your favorite vinegar variety. See great <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/recipes">recipe</a> ideas and other ways to use your <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/oils-and-vinegars">products</a> on our website!</p>What is a Vinaigrette? Five Things You Should Know2018-10-12T00:00:00+00:002024-03-29T03:32:32+00:00Tim Barronshttps://www.fustinis.com/blog/author/admin/https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-is-a-vinaigrette-five-things-you-should-know/<p>Whether you’re packing your lunch for the workday or whipping up something quick for dinner, a salad can be a staple dish you can create in many different ways. With a base of lettuce leaves or other greens, you can slice or chop up almost any kind of veggie and create a salad based on any type of cuisine.</p>
<p>With a variety of salads also comes a variety in the dressing you put on that salad as a finishing touch. The dressing is important - it’s the flavor that blends all the ingredients together in one harmonious bite.</p>
<h4>Choosing Your Dressing Wisely </h4>
<p>When you look to buy some salad dressings in the store, it can be easy to be overwhelmed by the plethora of pre-packed options like Ranch, French, Italian and many more. Often, these bottles are filled with preservatives, grams of fat and lots of sugar.</p>
<p>If you’re wanting a salad to be a healthy meal option, know you don’t need to settle for those store-bought dressings for your fresh and flavorful salad.</p>
<p>The vinaigrette is a salad dressing made of two main ingredients that instantly amps up the flavor of your salad. With just <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-makes-evoo-evoo-what-you-should-know-about-an-oil-unlike-any-other/" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><strong>extra virgin olive oil</strong></a> (EVOO) and <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/what-sets-balsamic-vinegar-apart-here-s-what-you-should-know/" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><strong>balsamic vinegar</strong></a>, you can transform that bowl of veggies into a savory dish. And when you make a vinaigrette yourself, you’re in charge of the flavor.</p>
<p>Making your own vinaigrette opens up new opportunities to try new flavor combinations and get the exact taste you want to pair with your salads (and other dishes, as well!) Here, we share five tips that you should know to make your perfect vinaigrette.</p>
<h5>1. Make Up Your Own Flavor Formula</h5>
<p><img alt="" height="432" src="https://www.fustinis.com/media/uploads/image/roberta-sorge-142255-unsplash(2).jpg" style="width: 311px;"/></p>
<p>A vinaigrette is made of two basic ingredients - olive oil and balsamic. But how much of each do you include?</p>
<p>The typical ratio for a vinaigrette is <strong>3 parts oil to 1 part balsamic</strong>. At Fustini’s Oils and Vinegars, we suggest you start out with a <strong>1:1 ratio of oil to balsamic and then adjust each ingredient</strong> based on your tastes. Once you have that down, you can basically create any type of vinaigrette you want.</p>
<p>However, while this is the typical ratio, that doesn’t mean you need to follow those proportions exactly. By making your own, and not buying from the store, you can change up the ratio of EVOO to balsamic in any way you choose.</p>
<p>If you like having your dressing thicker and a smoother texture, you might include more oil in your vinaigrette. But, if you want your dressing to have a stronger bite, be more acidic and popping with flavor, you might want to increase the amount of balsamic vinegar. Change it up, try new combinations and find which vinaigrette formula tastes best to you.</p>
<h5>2. Emulsify Before Using</h5>
<p>You may be wondering, <em>how is a vinaigrette possible when both ingredients physically won’t mix?</em> A vinaigrette doesn’t stay a unified whole for long, but when shaken and stirred, the oil and vinegar create a temporary emulsion.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/cooking-techniques-your-guide-to-emulsifying/" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><strong>An emulsion</strong></a> is when you mix two things together that don’t normally mix, i.e. vinegar and oil. Usually when making this kind of emulsion, a blender works really well. Whisking the oil and vinegar vigorously also emulsifies the two ingredients as well. A quick and easy way to mix is <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/7-ways-to-unlock-the-magic-of-the-mason-jar-in-your-kitchen/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">putting the ingredients in a mason jar</a> and shaking it well.</p>
<p>If you make the vinaigrette before you plan on using it on your salad, be sure to give it a shake or stir before adding it in, as the oil and vinegar will separate over time. </p>
<h5>3. Amp Up the Flavor</h5>
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<p>Sure, the EVOO and balsamic vinegar are the two most important ingredients in a vinaigrette, but they don’t need to be the only ones.</p>
<p>Whether it’s just a dash of herbal salt or amping it up with crushed red pepper flakes or Worcestershire sauce, adding in a few extra ingredients can cause an explosion of flavor.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/go-local-with-flavorful-honey-at-fustini-s/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Honey</a> can also be a great addition to your vinaigrette. Not only does it add a great level of sweetness to your salad topping, but it also helps the oil and vinegar to stay together longer.</p>
<p>Mustard and <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/go-local-with-flavorful-honey-at-fustini-s/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">honey</a> make a great combination with EVOO and balsamic vinegar for a honey mustard dressing perfect for any occasion. Try adding some mayo as an emulsifier to keep the vinaigrette a smooth dressing. </p>
<p>Try some new combinations of flavors by adding in a few ingredients here and there to help you discover your favorite flavors.</p>
<h5>4. Adjust as You Go</h5>
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<p>Not every vinaigrette tastes the same with the same ingredients. The salad or dish you are putting your vinaigrette on greatly influences the overall flavor combination.</p>
<p>For example, in a salad with more bitter greens like arugula may need more extra virgin olive oil in the vinaigrette to balance out that bitterness.</p>
<p>If you salad is sweeter and is topped with a lot of fruit, you may want to add more balsamic vinegar to the vinaigrette.</p>
<p>With the simplicity of ingredients, vinaigrettes make it easy to be creative and adjust the ratios as you go.</p>
<h5>5. Stay Healthy With Homemade</h5>
<p>Pick up a bottle in the grocery store of salad dressing and you’ll find ingredients in it such as high fructose corn syrup, high levels of salt, Xanthan gum, corn starch, sodium benzoate, GMOs and a lot of added sugars.</p>
<p>When you make your own dressing using two simple yet abundantly flavorful ingredients of <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/10-health-benefits-of-evoo-to-help-you-look-and-feel-your-best/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">extra virgin olive oil</a> and <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/blog/7-ways-to-boost-your-health-with-balsamic-vinegar/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">balsamic vinegar</a>, you can eliminate all those questionable chemicals and ingredients you don’t want to ingest. You’ll avoid added sugars, excess sodium and unnecessary calories. </p>
<p>Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar are the only things you need to take your salad from boring to amazing.</p>
<h5>Celebrate the Season with Your Vinaigrette Combinations</h5>
<p>The possibilities are endless when you choose to make your own healthy, flavorful and easy vinaigrette. All you need is some EVOO and balsamic vinegar and you’re well on your way toward savoring your salad.</p>
<p>You can even match your vinaigrette to the season you’re celebrating. For example great combinations to savor the flavors of fall include pairings such <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/vinegars/balsamic-vinegars/cinnamon-pear/">Cinnamon Pear Balsamic </a>and <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/oils/infused-extra-virgin-olive-oils/blood-orange/">Blood Orange Olive Oil</a>. Try our <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/new-items/michigan-apple/">Michigan Apple Balsamic</a> and combine it with <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/oils/specialty-oils/walnut-oil/">Walnut Oil</a> for a fresh and festive flavor.</p>
<p>Or, in the winter, go for a savory vinaigrette by combining our <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/vinegars/balsamic-vinegars/black-truffle/">Black Truffle Balsamic</a> with our <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/oils/infused-extra-virgin-olive-oils/garlic/">Garlic Oil</a>.</p>
<p>In the summertime, opt for a fruity and fresh combination like <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/meyer-lemon_37/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Meyer Lemon Olive Oil</a> and <a href="https://www.fustinis.com/order/west-michigan-blueberry-white_405/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">West Michigan Blueberry Balsamic Vinegar</a>. </p>
<p>With so many options, you can easily find a flavor pairing you can’t get enough of. Celebrate the seasons with making your own vinaigrette.</p>