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Cooking oils: What to use and when

According to Consumer Reports, deciding which oil to buy should depend on both what you're cooking and the amount of fat in the oil.

Posted Updated

By
Monica Laliberte
, WRAL executive producer/consumer reporter

Have you taken a good look at your grocer's oil aisle lately? The options can be a bit overwhelming.

According to Consumer Reports, deciding which oil to buy should depend on both what you're cooking and the amount of fat in the oil.

"You want to look for oils that are made mostly of healthy fats, such as monounsaturated fat and polyunsaturated fat," said Trisha Calvo, a health editor with Consumer Reports. "Those fats will help you lower your risk of heart disease and other health conditions."

Consumer Reports offered some recommendations on which oils to use and when:

Coconut oil has a mild, sweet flavor that will enhance Asian dishes, but it's mostly made up of heart unhealthy saturated fat, so it's best used in moderation.

Other oils are packed with good fats.

For example, avocado oil, which should be a go-to for searing meats or when you're cooking with high heat, has a nutty, buttery flavor.
Canola oil is neutral in flavor, so it's best to use when you don't want the flavor of the oil to come through in your cooking. It can be used for everything from baked goods to delicate fresh fish.
Olive oil is bold, and its flavors range from grassy and peppery to fruity. Use it to sauté veggies or meat, or use it on its own for dipping or

dressing salads.

Safflower oil is good for deep frying and for general cooking. Its mild, nutty flavor is also fine for baked goods.

Consumer Reports health experts say using any of the good fat oils to dress a salad helps your body better absorb the nutrients in your salad.

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