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TheOlive Twist

By Stacie Ball

The Olive Twist is an olive oil and vinegar tasting bar and culinary shop. Much like a wine tasting, consumers can sample the different kinds of oil and vinegar. Owners Lori and Terry Berndt can share information about the products and which foods pair well with them. They are passionate about their products, the culinary delights they have created, and sharing their discoveries with you.

Lori didn’t always love oils. After an experience as a child with rancid-smelling olive oil, she was against using the product at a young age. As adults, she and her older sister, Pam, enjoyed cooking and creating recipes, so it wasn’t long before she discovered a more refined olive oil. Through culinary discussions and ingredient substitutions with her sister, Lori realized how important it is to use healthy, fresh, quality ingredients and began to realize the great potential for EVOO. After her sister passed away, Lori was inspired to combine her love of cooking, gardening, and entertaining into a way of life by opening a Bed and Breakfast. Through what Lori and her husband Terry call a Terry and Lori Berndt

“Twist of fate,” Lori happened to visit an olive oil and vinegar tasting bar on the East Coast, which spurred the brilliant idea for The Olive Twist.

They have been “helping others live a quality lifestyle without giving up the quality of flavor” since October 2010. The shop carries olive oils, different kinds of vinegar, and specialty products, such as tea, herbs, spices, olives, sweets, and gifts. The best thing about the shop is the ability to taste-test the products with a culinary expert before you buy. The knowledgeable guide can help you find the mild, medium, or robust flavor you are looking for and help you find the products with the health benefits you desire.

Olive oil has many health benefits and is one of the healthiest fats out there. Quality extra virgin olive oil is loaded with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties and can help fight many diseases. There is a handy conversion chart on the website to substitute butter with EVOO in your recipes. A rule of thumb is ¾ teaspoon of Ultra-Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil for each teaspoon of butter.

If you want to get more creative, check out the website for delicious pairing ideas. Try Blood Orange EVOO + Dark Chocolate Balsamic or Roasted Walnut + Cinnamon Pear Balsamic. You also have access to over 140 mouthwatering recipes using products from the shop. I can’t wait to take a whirl at the Raspberry Crescent Ring or the Cold Day Spicy Gumbo.

Whatever your taste, the experts at The Olive Twist can help you find a healthy oil perfect for your palate.