Grapeseed Oil

Grapes are known for their nutritive properties. They are a healthy item and are also a great addition to many recipes. But I was recently enlightened about their medicinal and cosmetic uses with a recent gift of grape seed oil.

Grape seed oil has a sweet and nutty flavor. It is a light and colorless oil extracted from the seeds of different grape varieties. Italy is the main producer of grape seed oil. The oil has diverse uses ranging from cooking, cosmetics and in controlling several diseases. This is one mighty bottle :)

Since it is a type of vegetable oil it can be used in making salad dressings, marinades, sauces, baking and frying. Grape seed oil has a moderately high smoke point 216 c and is suited for high temperature cooking. 

After reading more about grape seed usage I found that the oil for cooking (such as bottle pictured) is different than oil used for cosmetic and medicinal uses . Now that was a huge disappointment to read because I figured I'd just slather it on my skin and it would be a great anti-aging product!! Especially when I read the part it has rejuvenating and regenerating qualities.

The medicinal list of usage was simply dazzling and a real eye opener for me. The oil extracts  can improve vision, blood circulation, flexibility of joints, lowering cholesterol, it is rich in vitamins, used in treatment of some cancers and certain diseases and reduce symptoms associated with allergies and asthma.

In the the cosmetic industry it is important for its emollient properties. It can be used in hair care products, creams and lotions,shaving products and for sunburn repairs.

Well the list just goes on and on and to think until last week I had never heard of grape seed oil. Which leads me to the recipe cards in photo. My friend who generously gave me the gift included some of her favorite dressing recipes using grape seed oil. So I made a salad and drizzled on yummy citrus dressing. Just eating it made me feel healthy after reading all the benefits of cooking and using grape seed oil.:) 

   Blueberry and Cantaloupe Salad

Salad Ingredients:

• torn spinach leaves 
• cantaloupe cubes
• cucumber slices
• blueberries
• toasted almonds
• red onion slices
• chopped fresh basil

Dressing Ingredients:

in a blender add the following and mix well

season with salt and pepper

• 1/4 cup champagne vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tsp. lime juice
• 1 tsp. grated lime zest
• 1 tsp. grated orange zest
• 1TB. minced shallots
• 1 TB. honey
• 1/2 cup grape seed oil