Santa Cruz is a long way from Greece and Italy, but our ideal growing climate brings that essence closer than you might think. Between the coastal vibe, ocean breezes and food scene, it’s our own slice of the Mediterranean. And thanks to local makers, you don’t have to cross continents to score some top-quality olive oil, rich in flavor and loaded with health benefits.
A cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) packs serious health perks: it’s been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even some cancers. Its healthy fats—essential for brain function—help protect against cognitive decline. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, those who add a generous pour of EVOO to their weekly diets could see a dramatic drop in risks for dementia and breast cancer.
When I hear people say the most delicious foods aren’t good for you, I have to wonder where they’re shopping. For me, EVOO is a culinary default, so I keep a range of price points handy. I save the fresh-pressed, high-end local bottles for drizzling and dressing, while my everyday olive oil is great for sautéing and marinating without the high price tag.
How to Shop for Olive Oil
Brad Asmus, olive oil expert and former owner of Pleasant Valley Olive Oil in Aptos, says most Americans haven’t tasted authentic olive oil. For decades, low-quality, mislabeled oils have flooded U.S. shelves.
A study by UC Davis found that 69% of imported oils labeled “extra virgin” in stores didn’t meet the standard, which leaves many consumers with a skewed sense of what olive oil should taste like.
When shopping, go for “extra virgin”—the only grade that preserves olive oil’s natural antioxidants and health-boosting compounds. True EVOO is cold-pressed; the heat and chemicals used in other grades strip away beneficial nutrients.
Fortunately, the Santa Cruz climate is an ideal spot for cultivating quality olives, and Asmus is happy to recommend some top-notch local producers.
Founders Steve and Marguerite Remde of Belle Farms, based in Watsonville since 1997, say that, like fine wine, olive oil’s taste is influenced by soil, climate, and careful farming. According to Belle Farms, fresh olive oil can range from “robust” and “fruity” to “grassy,” “buttery” or “peppery.” Their olives are hand-picked and cold-pressed within 24 hours of harvest.
Even the finest extra virgin olive oil doesn’t age like wine. Think of olive oil as you would fresh fruit juice—it’s best enjoyed soon after it’s made. Olive oil’s flavor and nutrition peak within six months of harvest, but supermarket oils often spend months on cargo ships, in warehouses and on store shelves.
If you like your oil with a twist, the True Olive Connection in Aptos carries a wide selection of infused and award-winning small-batch olive oils. Founded by Susan Pappas, and owned by Alisa Hart and Alasdair Dents since summer 2022, this spot offers EVOOs from Spain, Italy, Greece and Chile, as well as local mills. Each oil is carefully sourced and priority shipped for freshness.
This list is by no means inclusive, and if you have a recommendation I missed, post a comment on this article online. Most of our local specialty stores—like Shopper’s Corner, New Leaf and Staff of Life—carry regionally produced olive oils. I also recently discovered an EVOO (and balsamic vinegar) tasting station in the back of Toque Blanche, the cooking store on Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz, and left with two bottles tapped from the can, sealed and labeled right on the spot.
As you explore Santa Cruz’s local olive oil scene, remember that quality olive oil is as vibrant and complex as wine. Whether you’re drizzling it on a bed of greens, in a sauté pan or as a dip for fresh focaccia bread, skip the supermarket knock-offs and treat yourself to the real deal. Your taste buds—and your health—will thank you for it.
Belle Farms LLC, Watsonville. bellefarms.com
True Olive Connection, 7556 Soquel Dr., Aptos. trueoliveconnection.com
Toque Blanche, 1527 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz. mytoque.com
Elizabeth Borelli is a certified plant-based nutrition expert, professional life coach, yoga teacher and author of the upcoming book Tastes Like La Dolce Vita. Learn more at ElizabethBorelli.com.
