Culinary Demonstrations Come To @Olive_That in Montclair NJ

Montclair’s popular Olive That and More introduces a new culinary program featuring guest speakers and chefs to this fall to complement its line of Olive Oils, Balsamic Vinegars, and Salts.    

“Most people think of Olive Oil as salad dressing” says Jennifer O’Sullivan who along with her husband Steve Lehrhoff opened their store on Bellevue Avenue in Upper Montclair this past summer. “We’re not going to argue with anyone who buys our olive oil to dress a salad” chuckles O’Sullivan “but most people don’t realize that Olive Oil can replace butter and other oils in all sorts of recipes.”

Olive oil can play an active role in a healthy diet. The main type of fat found in olive oil is monounsaturated fatty acids. They are considered a healthy dietary fat because they help lower the risk of heart disease by improving related risk factors. The flavor profiles of olive oils vary greatly depending on the region in which the olives are grown – this makes some oils perfect for salads and savory dishes, but some olive oils are great for sweets including chocolate desserts!

“Dipping bread in Olive Oil has been my go to comfort food for years” says Lehrhoff “It’s only recently that I discovered it makes the best brownies ever. I may have discovered my new favorite comfort food.” The events in the store will be part class – part demonstration – part discussion with tastings of the ingredients as well as the finished dishes.

The first class is Wednesday November 14^th at 7pm “Fantastic Focaccia.” The demonstration will not only include making focaccia from scratch but will demonstrate various toppings to make a quick meal or appetizer for guests. “Focaccia lends itself perfectly to dipping so I know there will be a lot of tastings of oils in that class” added Lehrhoff.

On December 12th there will be a cookie and holiday treat class using what else, olive oil.

These demonstrations are free but its best to call the store at 973-744-7175 to reserve a space. Be sure to offer your phone number just in case there are any changes. We don’t expect a major snowstorm but that’s what got this business started so anything is possible.

Olive That And More is at 246 Bellevue Ave in Upper Montclair NJ. Its two doors down from the Bellevue Theatre, across from Chase Bank, and two doors from Valley Road. The Olive That Bench has become a local landmark.