This morning after I stopped by Ivy Hill in Ladue\Clayton, I noticed this store called An Olive Ovation. I was intrigued by the name, and when I saw an olive tree in the window, was even more curious.
I was like a little kid in a candy shop here. I was not sure where to explore first. I sort of wandered around the store just taking everything in. I introduced myself to the guy working, and found out the store was his mom’s. Adam was very friendly and showed us what the store specializes in…you guessed it, Olive Oils. They have a huge selection of olive oils, from South Africa, Spain, Italy, and California. They let us sample the different flavors. Joe and I tried two different oils. One from Italy and the other from California. The tastes were completely different. The first one was unique, mild, and creamy, It could be used to toss pasta, cook crab or shrimp, or used as a bread dipping oil. The second one was a very traditional, bold “punch you right in the face” EVOO. We also tried a balsamic vinegar that was delicious. It was rich, sweet and sour at the same time. Adam also gave us ideas for the oils/vinegars. The blackberry balsamic vinegar could be poured on top of ice cream and strawberries!! Sounds delightful, doesn’t it?
The oils can be bought in the labeled bottles, or if they have the oil in house you can buy a plain glass bottle ( could save money), and refill the bottle you have (the refills are cheaper). Here are a few pictures of the many different oils, us trying the oils, and the store.
They also have china, olive-wood cutting boards and kitchen utensils, cook books, sauces, and pasta imported from Italy!
We bought some gnocchi, and ate it tonight with my homemade spaghetti and meat sauce. The gnocchi melted in your mouth and tasted the closest to homemade gnocchi I have ever had.
We also bought a brine mixture that has orange peel, cranberry, celery, sage, thyme, onions, sugar and salt. With thanksgiving approaching, it would be ideal to use on a turkey or any other poultry/fowl. It was only $6 and enough for a 12 lb. bird. My husband makes his own brine for our turkey at thanksgiving that is out-of-this-world, so we won’t be using this brine for the holidays, but we will definitely be using it soon.
If you are looking for a great way to step up your cooking game, or just want to expand your horizons with olive oils you can’t even imagine, stop by and say HI to Adam!
Until my next adventure,
Annie!
xoxoxo
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