What could you consider a staple of Italian cuisine?

In Italian cuisine, olive oil is considered a staple due to its central role in cooking and flavoring dishes. It is not only a primary cooking fat but also used in dressings, marinades, and finishing dishes. Olive oil is valued for its health benefits, including heart health, and is a key ingredient in numerous traditional recipes, from pasta sauces to salad dressings. Its versatility and flavor enhance the Italian culinary experience, making it a foundational component of many Italian dishes.

While corn, rice, and potatoes are used in some Italian regions and dishes, they do not hold the same significant importance or ubiquitous presence as olive oil does. Olive oil is emblematic of Italian cooking, embodying the region's cultural heritage and culinary techniques.