The UK now consumes 28 million litres of olive oil each year, which accounts for 2.9% of the world’s consumption. This is being attributed to the rise in reports that the Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest in the world and it seems like we’re taking notice! Here are some recipes using olive oil that you might like to try.

Acclaimed TV chef, author and ‘culinary explorer’ Valentine Warner has created four bespoke recipes for British Onions. These recipes perfectly encapsulate the versatility of the great British Onion as a key ingredient in cooking.

This is a rich dish that requires some skill and ideally some professional kitchen equipment, however experienced home cooks might improvise in order to achive similar results to those achieved by Massimo Bottura.

Camembert Parcels with Hazelnuts and Tracklements Christmas Chutney,Tracklements Country Garden Chutney& Cheese Scones, Prawn Curry with Tracklements Green Tomato Chutney,Tracklements Caramelised Red Onion Toastswith Blue Cheese & Walnuts

Just about every region of Italy has its own minestrone. Filippo Berio has created a delicious Minestrone Alla Genovese packed full of tasty vegetables, this recipe is perfect for lunch or as a starter.

One of three recipes using the fabulous olive oil of Castillo de Cana.

One of three recipes using the fabulous olive oil of Castillo de Cana

One of three recipes using the fabulous olive oil of Castillo de Cana

Friday, we celebrated homecomings – our return from Sicily and the return of two other couples from Australia. We were all delighted to be back and decided to share a meal. I offered to bring roasted pork tenderloin and asked if I could cook it in my friend’s oven while we enjoyed appetizers and shared travel stories.

You know what? Righteous are all right, a range of salad dressings that aren’t pumped full of fats and sugars. They have no preservatives or artificial ingredients and, where possible, they are 100% vegan and gluten-free.