Top 10 Best Olive Oil For Salad Dressing of 2025

Our pick: Premium Selection Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The Colavita Premium Selection Extra Virgin Olive Oil truly delivers on its promise of quality and versatility. After using it for several weeks in various dishes—ranging from fresh salads to oven-roasted vegetables and baked bread—I found its flavor rich, smooth, and authentic without overpowering other ingredients. The cold-pressed extraction ensures the oil retains its natural aroma and taste, making it a staple in any kitchen that values Mediterranean cooking. Additionally, the generous 68 oz plastic jug with an easy-pour spout adds practicality for both home cooks and culinary enthusiasts.

Pros:

• Bold, authentic flavor ideal for dressings and drizzling

• Cold-pressed and 100% pure extra virgin olive oil

• Large, economical bottle for frequent use

• Convenient and mess-free pour spout

Cons:

• Plastic packaging may not appeal to premium product seekers

Overall, Colavita Premium Selection Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a dependable choice for those seeking both taste and value. While the plastic container may not suit everyone’s preference, the oil’s freshness, purity, and versatility make it a great addition to any kitchen. Highly recommended for daily cooking and gourmet preparations alike.

Also great: Mantova Organic Flavored Extra Virgin Olive Oil Variety Pack

The Mantova Organic Flavored Extra Virgin Olive Oil Variety Pack is a delightful addition to any kitchen. After testing all four flavors—garlic, basil, chili, and lemon—I found each bottle offered a distinct, fresh taste without any artificial aftertaste. The oils are light, aromatic, and perfect for elevating simple dishes like pasta, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats. Whether used as a finishing drizzle or for sautéing, these oils bring authentic Italian flair to meals. The 8.5 oz bottles are just the right size for easy handling and storage, and the variety pack makes it an excellent gift choice for cooking enthusiasts.

Pros:

• Authentic, natural infused flavors

• Versatile for both cooking and finishing

• Attractive and gift-ready packaging

• Made in Italy with organic ingredients

Cons:

• Small bottle size may not suit heavy users

Mantova's Flavored Extra Virgin Olive Oil Pack offers quality, flavor, and convenience in one thoughtful set. While the bottles are on the smaller side, the freshness and authenticity of each infusion make this a great option for home cooks looking to enhance their everyday meals or gift something special.

Also great: Zahara Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Italy

The Zahara Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Oleificio Guccione is a standout product that truly reflects its Sicilian heritage. After testing this oil in both raw and cooked applications—such as salads, grilled fish, and fresh bread dipping—it impressed with its bold, well-rounded flavor profile. Hints of tomato leaf, Mediterranean herbs, and white pepper offer depth uncommon in typical supermarket oils. The cold-pressed, early harvest process is evident in its vibrant aroma and smooth, low-acidity finish. Packaged in a beautifully designed gift box, it also makes an excellent present for gourmet food lovers. This is clearly a premium, artisanal oil for discerning tastes.

Pros:

• Rich, complex flavor with balanced notes

• High polyphenol content and low acidity

• Cold-pressed from hand-harvested Tonda Iblea olives

• Elegant, award-winning packaging for gifting

Cons:

• Limited production may lead to availability issues

Zahara Extra Virgin Olive Oil offers a luxurious and authentic Sicilian experience in every drop. Its exceptional quality, taste complexity, and artisan production justify its premium status. Ideal for those who appreciate fine culinary ingredients or wish to give a thoughtful gourmet gift.

Source: Amazon

When it comes to salad dressing, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the top choice. Why? Because EVOO is made from the first cold pressing of olives, preserving its rich flavor, natural aroma, and high nutrient content. This type of olive oil offers a slightly fruity, peppery taste that enhances the freshness of vegetables without overpowering them. For simple vinaigrettes or dressings where the oil flavor shines, a high-quality EVOO is essential.

However, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can also use light olive oil, which has a more neutral taste but lacks the depth and health benefits of EVOO. But for most salad enthusiasts and chefs, extra virgin remains the gold standard.

What Oils Are Good for Salad Dressings?

Besides olive oil, there are several other oils that work wonderfully in salad dressings:

• Avocado Oil: Rich in healthy fats and mild in flavor, avocado oil is perfect for creamy or citrus-based dressings.

• Grapeseed Oil: With its light, neutral profile, grapeseed oil lets other ingredients—like herbs or vinegar—take the spotlight.

• Walnut Oil: Offers a delicate nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with fruit or mixed green salads.

• Sesame Oil: Best used in small amounts for Asian-style dressings, sesame oil adds a deep, toasty aroma.

• Sunflower Oil: Mild and budget-friendly, this oil blends well in classic vinaigrettes.

Each oil brings its own character, so choosing the right one depends on your salad ingredients and the flavor profile you want to create.

Is Extra Virgin Olive Oil Only for Dressing?

Not at all. Extra virgin olive oil isn’t just for dressings—it's incredibly versatile. While it shines in cold preparations like salad dressings, dips (such as hummus), and drizzling over finished dishes, it can also be used for:

• Sautéing vegetables at low to medium heat.

• Roasting meats or fish, adding a hint of fresh olive flavor.

• Marinating proteins or veggies before cooking.

However, because of its low smoke point compared to refined oils, EVOO is not ideal for high-temperature frying. But for most everyday cooking tasks and finishing touches, it’s a flavorful and healthy choice.

Can You Use Olive Oil for Salad Oil?

Yes, absolutely. Olive oil is one of the best options for salad oil. In fact, when recipes call for "salad oil," olive oil—especially extra virgin—is often the preferred type because of its taste and health benefits. It pairs well with a wide range of vinegars, citrus juices, herbs, and spices, making it a versatile base for dressings.

If you want a lighter flavor or a more neutral base, you might choose a light or pure olive oil, but for depth and aroma, EVOO is the way to go. Whether you're tossing a simple green salad or preparing an elaborate grain bowl, olive oil makes a flavorful and nutritious dressing ingredient.

Choosing the best olive oil for salad dressing can truly elevate your meals from simple to unforgettable. Whether you prefer the bold, peppery notes of extra virgin olive oil or the smooth, mild flavor of a light blend, the right pick depends on your taste and the dishes you love most. Quality matters—look for cold-pressed, pure oils from trusted producers. A great bottle of olive oil isn’t just an ingredient; it’s an investment in better flavor and healthier eating. So the next time you drizzle dressing over fresh greens, make sure you’re using the best. Your taste buds will thank you.