Looking for the perfect way to take the edge off the winter chill? These comforting olive oil–based recipes are just the thing. There’s something special about winter meals shared around the table — cosy dining rooms, good conversation, and the smell of home cooking drifting through the house. That feeling of coming in from the cold and being greeted by something warm on the stove is hard to beat. So whether you’re keen to refresh your comfort food favourites or add a Mediterranean touch to your winter cooking, we’ve gathered plenty of delicious ideas to inspire you.
The Role of Olive Oil in Comfort Food
Olive oil brings warmth, depth, and richness to winter comfort cooking, lifting familiar dishes with its fragrance and silky texture. With fruity, peppery notes, it pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables, hearty stews, and slow-braised meats. Drizzled over creamy soups or mashed potatoes, it adds a smooth finish that feels both rustic and refined. Whether you’re roasting, sautéing, or finishing a dish, olive oil has a quiet way of enhancing the flavour of classic comfort foods.
Cosy Egg Dishes, Ready in Minutes
When winter sets in, life can feel that bit more demanding — darker mornings, colder evenings, and days that seem to run away with you. Having a few quick, comforting recipes up your sleeve can make all the difference.
This Rustic Spanish Omelette is a perfect example. Ready in around 30 minutes, it uses simple cupboard staples like eggs, onions, potatoes, and La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Hearty and satisfying, it works just as well as a main dish as it does served alongside other plates.
Another great option for chilly evenings is this Quiche Lorraine. Also ready in about half an hour, it’s packed with protein-rich ingredients such as eggs, chickpeas, and lean bacon. Crisp on the outside and comforting within, it’s deceptively easy to make.
Chef’s tip: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg for extra warmth and fragrance.
And if you’re in the mood for something with a little heat, our Patatas Bravas are always a good idea. A staple in Spanish homes and restaurants, this dish features potatoes fried in mild La Española Olive Oil, then coated in a sweet and spicy bravas sauce. Never made them before? Don’t worry — our homemade recipe keeps things simple.
Mouthwatering Meaty Stews
Few dishes say “winter comfort” quite like a good stew. Curling up with a steaming bowl on a cold evening feels exactly right for the season.
Our Lentil, Chorizo and Vegetable Stew is just the thing to warm you through. Filled with onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and tomatoes, it’s rich, savoury, and surprisingly quick to make — ready in just 30 minutes.
If beef is more your style, this Beef and Pimentón Stew with Truffle Oil and Garlic Mash adds a slightly more indulgent twist. A drizzle of La Española Olive Oil Flavoured with White Truffle stirred through the mash brings extra depth and richness to the dish.
Special Occasion Recipes
With winter naturally drawing us indoors, it’s the perfect time to gather friends and family around the table. If you’re planning a dinner and want something that feels a little special, this Marinated Rack of Pork with Cumin and Paprika is a wonderful choice. Tender, flavourful pork roasted to perfection always makes an impression. Serve it alongside Sautéed Green Beans and you’ve got a meal that feels both comforting and celebratory.
Home Comforts: Desserts
No winter feast feels complete without something sweet to finish. That’s why we’ve adapted two much-loved American desserts using olive oil.
This Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a seasonal favourite, while our Chocolate Brownies with Extra Virgin Olive Oil are ideal for colder days. Best enjoyed warm from the oven, they’re rich, chocolatey, and guaranteed to please both children and adults alike.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use olive oil for roasting winter vegetables?
Absolutely. Olive oil is ideal for roasting vegetables like carrots, potatoes, squash, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips. It helps achieve caramelisation, crisp edges, and enhanced natural sweetness.
What type of olive oil is best for winter comfort meals?
Use extra virgin olive oil for finishing, dressings, and gentle sautéing, and a regular or light olive oil for high-heat cooking like roasting and pan-searing. Robust, peppery EVOOs pair especially well with winter flavours.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter FOR baking?
Yes—olive oil works beautifully in breads, cakes, and muffins. It keeps baked goods moist and adds a subtle, fruity note. Use a milder EVOO for sweet recipes.
Does heating olive oil destroy its health benefits?
Heating olive oil at normal cooking temperatures is safe. It retains antioxidants and healthy monounsaturated fats even when used for roasting or sautéing, as long as it’s not overheated beyond its smoke point.
What soups benefit from olive oil?
Hearty soups like lentil, minestrone, chicken stew, squash soup, and white bean soup shine with olive oil. Drizzle a little EVOO on top before serving for added flavour and richness.
What’s the best way to store olive oil during THE winter?
Keep olive oil in a cool, dark place, but not cold enough for it to solidify. If it clouds or thickens from cold temperatures, just let it warm up at room temperature—this doesn’t affect its quality.
Can olive oil be used in A slow-cooker or one-pot meals?
Yes! Add olive oil at the start for flavour and to help ingredients cook evenly. A final drizzle before serving boosts aroma and richness.
What FLAVOURS pair well with olive oil in winter?
As winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the table to share meals that warm both the body and the spirit. Whether you’re experimenting with new Mediterranean-inspired dishes or revisiting nostalgic comfort classics, olive oil brings a touch of richness and warmth to every bite. The best part? You don’t have to be an expert chef to create the meals you crave. All you need is a little inspiration and the right guide. For more winter recipe ideas and culinary tips, make sure you check out our blog.