What's the Best Substitute for Olive Oil?
Whether you're out of Olive Oil or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Fruity, flavorful oil made from pressed olives, used for cooking, baking, and finishing dishes In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for olive oil are canola oil, vegetable oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil depending on the recipe and cooking method.
Best Substitutes for Olive Oil
Canola Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- frying
- sautéing
- salad dressings
- general cooking
Description
Neutral-flavored oil with similar smoke point to olive oil. Most versatile substitute.
Best substitute for olive oil in most recipes. Neutral flavor won't overpower dishes.
Vegetable Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- frying
- sautéing
- cooking
- general use
Description
Neutral-flavored oil that works well in most recipes. Similar cooking properties to olive oil.
Most similar to olive oil in cooking properties. Neutral flavor.
Avocado Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- high-heat cooking
- frying
- sautéing
- roasting
- salad dressings
Description
Neutral-flavored oil with high smoke point. Great for high-heat cooking.
Higher smoke point than olive oil, good for high-heat cooking. Neutral flavor.
Coconut Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- sautéing
- frying
- vegan recipes
- tropical dishes
Description
Solid at room temperature, adds subtle coconut flavor. Great for vegan recipes.
Melt before measuring, adds subtle coconut flavor. Solid at room temperature.
Grapeseed Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- frying
- sautéing
- roasting
- salad dressings
- baking
Description
Neutral-flavored oil with high smoke point. Good for all cooking methods.
High smoke point, neutral flavor. Works well in all cooking applications.
Sunflower Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- frying
- sautéing
- roasting
- baking
- general cooking
Description
Neutral-flavored oil with high smoke point. Good for all cooking methods.
High smoke point, neutral flavor. Works well in all cooking applications.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Olive Oil, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Choose your olive oil substitute based on the cooking method and recipe needs
For finishing dishes: extra virgin olive oil is best, but canola oil works too
For salad dressings: extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor, or use avocado oil
For baking: light olive oil or canola oil work best
For high-heat cooking: avocado oil or grapeseed oil have higher smoke points
For neutral flavor: canola oil or vegetable oil are best
For added flavor: coconut oil adds subtle tropical taste
Extra virgin olive oil is best for finishing dishes and salad dressings
Light olive oil works better for baking and high-heat cooking
Canola oil is the best substitute for most cooking applications
Avocado oil has a higher smoke point than olive oil
Coconut oil solidifies at room temperature, melt before using
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications