A Guide to Olive Oil and Balsamic Bliss at Rafter Eleven
By Brooke Wasowicz
Feeling overwhelmed by the endless rows of olive oil and balsamic vinegar at the store? Fear not, fellow foodie! Rafter Eleven is your friendly neighborhood gourmet shop in the heart of Prescott Valley, and its team is here to banish any balsamic bewilderment you may have.
Rafter Eleven understands that navigating the world of these flavorful elixirs can be overwhelming, but fret no more: Rafter Eleven’s welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff are here to transform you from a confused cook to a confident connoisseur.
Here’s how you can unlock the secrets of the perfect pairing and elevate your meals from “meh” to “magnificent”:
Step One: Embrace the Exploration.
Rafter Eleven isn’t just a store, it’s an experience. Imagine rows of gleaming bottles, each holding the potential to transform a simple salad or a roasted veggie dish. Don’t be shy: wander the aisles, take a whiff of the robust Tuscan Herb olive oil or the fragrant Blood Orange, and let your senses guide you.
Step Two: Befriend the Experts.
Rafter Eleven’s staff is passionate about these products, and their knowledge is your secret weapon. Ask them questions. Tell them about your favorite dishes, and they’ll suggest olive oil and balsamic pairings that will make your taste buds sing.
Step Three: Sample, Sample, Sample!
The beauty of Rafter Eleven is the opportunity to taste before you commit. Dip a piece of the store’s fantastic bread into a pool of buttery olive oil, then drizzle with a touch of balsamic. Is it a match made in flavor heaven? Move on and try another combination until you find the perfect symphony for your palate.
Step Four: Think Beyond the Bottle.
Rafter Eleven isn’t just about the classics. Go wild with flavored olive oils and vinegars. Imagine a Caprese salad drizzled with a touch of Fig Balsamic, or grilled chicken marinated in a touch of Chipotle Olive Oil. The possibilities are endless.
Step Five: Unleash Your Inner Alchemist.
Once you’ve grasped the basics of pairing, don’t be afraid to experiment. There are no hard and fast rules. Like a touch of sweetness? Pair a fruity balsamic with a mild olive oil. Craving something savory? Go bold with a peppery olive oil and a robust balsamic. The key is to have fun and find what tantalizes your taste buds.
Remember, the best way to learn is by tasting. So grab your favorite foods and head down to Rafter Eleven. With the staff’s expert guidance and your adventurous spirit, you’ll be a balsamic and olive oil master in no time. And who knows, you might even discover a new favorite flavor combination that becomes a part of your signature dish.
So ditch the bland and embrace the bold. Rafter Eleven awaits, ready to unlock a world of delicious possibilities, one delectable drizzle at a time.
Bring in a copy of this article for 20% off any large balsamic and olive oil pairing (deal only works when both products are purchased).
Rafter Eleven is at 2985 N. Centre Court, in Prescott Valley. For more information call 928.227.2050 or visit www.raftereleven.com.