Extra virgin olive oil substitutes
Extra virgin olive oil substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Regular olive oil
Same amount as the extra virgin olive oil
Standard olive oil with similar flavor profile.
The best substitutes for extra virgin olive oil are regular olive oil, avocado oil, or other high-quality oils like walnut oil or grapeseed oil, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of extra virgin olive oil | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Regular olive oilcooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Avocado oilcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Walnut oilsalad dressings | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Grapeseed oilcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Coconut oilbaking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Vegetable oilcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Regular olive oil
similar taste and texture
Standard olive oil with similar flavor profile.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, salad dressings, marinades
Similar flavor, may be less fruity.
Avocado oil
different taste, similar texture
High-quality oil with similar smoke point.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, salad dressings, marinades
Neutral flavor, similar health benefits.
Walnut oil
different taste, similar texture
Nutty oil with similar health benefits.
- Best for
- salad dressings, finishing dishes, marinades
More expensive, nutty flavor.
Grapeseed oil
different taste, similar texture
Neutral oil with high smoke point.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, frying, marinades
Neutral flavor, high smoke point.
Coconut oil
different taste and texture
Solid oil with similar health benefits.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, frying
Solid at room temperature, coconut flavor.
Vegetable oil
different taste, similar texture
Neutral oil with similar cooking properties.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, frying, marinades
Neutral flavor, lower quality.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use regular olive oil instead of extra virgin olive oil?
Yes, regular olive oil is a good substitute for extra virgin olive oil. It has similar flavor and can be used in most recipes that call for extra virgin olive oil.
What's the difference between extra virgin olive oil and regular olive oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is made from the first cold pressing of olives and has lower acidity, while regular olive oil is made from subsequent pressings and may be refined.
Can I use avocado oil instead of extra virgin olive oil?
Yes, avocado oil can work as a substitute, though it has a neutral flavor. It has similar health benefits and can be used in most recipes.
Why is extra virgin olive oil so popular in Mediterranean cooking?
Extra virgin olive oil is popular in Mediterranean cooking because it adds fruity flavor, health benefits, and is a traditional ingredient in many Mediterranean recipes.
Tips for substituting extra virgin olive oil
6 tips- Extra virgin olive oil has a low smoke point, so use for low to medium heat cooking
- Extra virgin olive oil is best used for finishing dishes and salad dressings
- Extra virgin olive oil pairs well with herbs, garlic, and citrus
- Extra virgin olive oil can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Extra virgin olive oil should be stored in a cool, dark place
- Extra virgin olive oil can be used to make infused oils