What Can I Mix with Olive Oil to Drink? Creative & Healthy Combinations

October 23, 2025 •

4 min read

A tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil contains about 120 calories and is packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. For those looking to incorporate this habit, the question often arises: what can I mix with olive oil to drink for better taste and added benefits?

Quick Summary

Mixing extra virgin olive oil with ingredients like lemon juice, honey, or warm water can make it more palatable. These combinations offer unique flavors and provide potential health benefits, including enhanced digestion and antioxidant support.

Key Points

Start Small: Begin with a teaspoon and increase gradually to a tablespoon to prevent digestive upset.
Use High-Quality EVOO: Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the highest concentration of healthy fats and polyphenols.
Enhance Flavor with Mix-ins: Combine olive oil with lemon juice for a tart kick, honey for sweetness, or spices for warmth.
Be Mindful of Calories: A tablespoon of olive oil contains around 120 calories, so balance your intake within your daily diet.
Protect Your Teeth: If using acidic ingredients like lemon juice, use a straw or rinse your mouth afterward to protect tooth enamel.
Know Your Body: Consider your individual health. If you have a sensitive stomach or GERD, it may be better to take olive oil with a meal.
Properly Infuse with Herbs: Use dried herbs for longer storage and lower risk of bacterial growth, and always refrigerate fresh herb infusions.

Discovering Flavorful Ways to Drink Olive Oil

Drinking high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has long been a tradition in some Mediterranean cultures for its potential health benefits, which include supporting heart health, reducing inflammation, and aiding digestion. However, the strong, peppery flavor can be intense for some. Mixing it with other ingredients can make it more enjoyable while adding complementary nutrients. This guide explores popular and effective combinations for creating your own flavorful wellness shots.

The Classic Mix: Lemon Juice

Perhaps the most common and well-researched combination is olive oil with fresh lemon juice. This simple mixture is a staple home remedy. Lemon juice provides a powerful dose of vitamin C and has antioxidant effects, while EVOO offers its rich profile of monounsaturated fats and polyphenols.

For Digestion: Many believe that taking olive oil with lemon juice on an empty stomach helps stimulate bile production, aiding in fat digestion and potentially relieving constipation.
For Overall Wellness: The combination provides a synergistic antioxidant boost that can help fight free radicals. The healthy fats also aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

A Soothing Blend: Honey and Spices

For those who prefer a sweeter or more comforting profile, adding honey and warming spices offers a delicious alternative. Honey is known for its antibacterial properties, while spices like ginger or cinnamon can provide additional anti-inflammatory effects.

Honey and Lemon: This mixture is a classic remedy for soothing sore throats. A tablespoon of EVOO with a teaspoon of raw honey and a squeeze of lemon juice can provide lubrication and antibacterial support.
Ginger and Cinnamon: A mix of EVOO, grated ginger, and a pinch of cinnamon can create a warming, anti-inflammatory elixir. This combination is rich in antioxidants and can be added to warm water for a soothing drink.

Infused Olive Oils for Subtler Flavors

For those who find drinking oil too heavy, infusing a lighter olive oil with fresh or dried herbs can impart flavor without the intense taste of raw EVOO. Caution is advised when using fresh herbs due to the risk of botulism; properly drying herbs first or refrigerating infused oil and using it quickly is crucial.

Basil or Rosemary: Infusing olive oil with herbs like basil or rosemary creates an aromatic, savory drink. While typically used for cooking, a small amount can be incorporated into a savory shot or smoothie.
Mint: A mint-infused olive oil can offer a refreshing, palate-cleansing flavor. This can be particularly pleasant in a glass of cool water.

The Smoothie and Coffee Method

For an effortless way to incorporate olive oil, simply blend it into your daily smoothie or coffee. This method masks the taste entirely and allows you to enjoy the benefits without the intense flavor profile.

Into a Smoothie: Add one tablespoon of EVOO to a green smoothie with spinach, banana, and almond milk. The oil's flavor will be hidden by the fruit and vegetables, and the healthy fats will aid in nutrient absorption.
In Your Coffee: Adding a small amount of olive oil to coffee is another growing trend, similar to bulletproof coffee. It creates a creamy texture and provides a dose of healthy fats to start your day.

Comparison of Popular Olive Oil Mixtures


Mixture	Primary Flavor Profile	Best For...	Preparation Notes
Lemon & EVOO	Tart, Peppery	Digestive support, antioxidant boost	Best consumed on an empty stomach, use a straw to protect teeth from acid.
Honey & EVOO	Sweet, Earthy	Soothing throat, general wellness	Mix well until emulsified, consider warm water for consistency.
Spices (Ginger, Cinnamon) & EVOO	Warm, Aromatic	Anti-inflammatory, soothing	Grate fresh ginger or use powdered spices, can be added to warm water or tea.
Warm Water & EVOO	Neutral, Mildly Peppery	Hydration, gentle digestion	Simple mix, great for sensitive stomachs, use lukewarm water.
Smoothies & EVOO	Fruity, Earthy (masked)	Nutrient absorption, meal replacement	Mixes seamlessly into most fruit or vegetable smoothies.

Recipes for Drinking Olive Oil

Daily Digestion Shot: Combine 1 tbsp of high-quality EVOO with the juice of half a fresh lemon. Drink quickly on an empty stomach for potential digestive benefits.
Soothing Throat Elixir: Mix 1 tbsp of EVOO with 1 tsp of raw honey and a small squeeze of lemon juice. Add to a mug of lukewarm water for a comforting drink.
Warming Antioxidant Tea: Steep a slice of fresh ginger and a cinnamon stick in warm water for 5 minutes. Remove spices, then stir in 1 tbsp of EVOO and a splash of lemon juice.
Energy-Boosting Smoothie: Blend 1 cup of spinach, half a banana, 1/4 cup almond milk, and 1 tbsp of EVOO. The banana and spinach effectively mask the oil's flavor.
Simple Morning Wellness: For the simplest approach, just mix 1 tbsp of EVOO into a small glass of lukewarm water and drink.

Conclusion

Incorporating olive oil into your diet by drinking it is a personal choice, and mixing it with other ingredients can make the experience more palatable and enjoyable. Whether you prefer a zesty shot with lemon, a soothing warm drink with honey and spices, or a masked dose in a smoothie, there are numerous ways to reap the potential benefits of this powerful liquid. It's important to remember that moderation is key, as olive oil is high in calories, and using high-quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for maximizing its nutritional value. For a comprehensive overview of olive oil's components and dietary guidelines, refer to reputable health sources, such as the FDA's recommendations on olive oil. Ultimately, listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your dietary routine, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, drinking extra virgin olive oil in moderation is generally safe for most people. Some consume it directly, while others prefer to mix it with other ingredients to make the flavor more palatable. Starting with a smaller amount like a teaspoon is recommended.

For drinking, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the best choice. It is unrefined and retains the highest levels of beneficial antioxidants and polyphenols compared to other grades of olive oil.

While some claim olive oil can aid weight loss, no strong scientific evidence supports it as a weight-loss 'shot'. Its healthy fats can increase feelings of fullness, but it's also high in calories and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Combining olive oil with lemon juice is thought to boost digestion, stimulate bile production, and provide a strong dose of antioxidants from both ingredients. However, specific research on the combined effect is limited.

Many people prefer to drink olive oil in the morning on an empty stomach to aid digestion, while others prefer taking it before bed. There is no definitive 'best' time; it depends on personal preference and how your body responds.

Yes, several studies have shown that consuming a small amount of olive oil daily can help lubricate the digestive tract and soften stools, potentially providing relief for constipation.

Drinking large amounts of olive oil can lead to gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea or stomach upset. It's also high in calories, so excessive intake could contribute to weight gain if not balanced in your overall diet.