The 10 Best Olive Oils To Buy of 2025

When it comes to cooking, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is a popular choice due to its rich flavor and high antioxidant content. However, it's best suited for low to medium-heat cooking, such as sautéing or finishing dishes. The natural compounds that give EVOO its flavor can degrade at high temperatures.

For everyday cooking at higher heat, refined or light olive oil may be more practical. These types have a higher smoke point—around 465°F—making them more stable for grilling, roasting, or pan-searing. While they have less flavor and fewer polyphenols than EVOO, they retain the healthy fats olive oil is known for.

What is the best olive oil for frying?

For shallow frying or stir-frying, refined olive oil is generally the most effective. It has a more neutral flavor and can handle higher heat without smoking. If you still want a touch of the olive oil aroma, a blend of EVOO and refined oil can work well.

Although some use EVOO for frying, its lower smoke point (around 375°F) can lead to breakdown under sustained high heat, which may impact flavor and nutrient quality. For most frying tasks, refined olive oil strikes a good balance between performance and health benefits.

Which olive oil is the healthiest?

Extra virgin olive oil stands out as the healthiest type. It's minimally processed and packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and monounsaturated fats that support heart health. Studies link regular EVOO consumption to lower risks of cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, and certain cancers.

Look for cold-pressed, single-origin EVOO stored in dark glass bottles to ensure freshness. Freshness matters because antioxidants degrade over time, especially when exposed to light or air.

Which oil is healthiest for deep frying?

While olive oil can be used for deep frying, it's not always the most efficient choice due to cost and flavor loss. Still, if you prefer olive oil, refined olive oil is your best bet—it offers a high smoke point and a stable fat profile under heat.

That said, the healthiest oils for deep frying are those with both high smoke points and low levels of polyunsaturated fats, which can oxidize easily. Avocado oil and high-oleic sunflower oil are also considered top options for deep frying, thanks to their heat stability and favorable fat composition.

In short, olive oil can be healthy for frying in moderation—but for deep frying, other oils may perform better without compromising nutrition.