Canola Oil

Brassica napus Cooking Oil

Canola Oil Cooking Oil

At a Glance

  • Category Cooking Oil

The Forktionary Angle

"The unsung workhorse of the kitchen, providing a neutral, high-heat cooking medium that lets other ingredients shine without imparting its own flavor."

Definition

A versatile vegetable oil extracted from rapeseed (a cultivar of Brassica napus or Brassica rapa), known for its neutral flavor, light texture, and high smoke point.

Global Production One of the most widely produced vegetable oils globally.
Omega-3 Content Contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid.
Smoke Point Approximately 400-450°F (204-232°C), suitable for high-heat cooking.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Canola Oil are:

Neutral very mild almost flavorless

Chef’s Secret

Because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point, canola oil is excellent for making homemade flavored oils (e.g., chili oil, garlic oil) without overpowering the infusion.

Best Substitutes

Vegetable Oil

Ratio 1:1

Sunflower Oil

Ratio 1:1

Grapeseed Oil

Ratio 1:1

Safflower Oil

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose cold-pressed or expeller-pressed for higher quality. Look for clear oil without cloudiness.

Recipes Using Canola Oil

Summer Low Fat Preparation Low In Something

Baltimore Peach Cake

Taste the sweet summer sunshine with this Baltimore Peach Cake recipe! A beloved Baltimore tradition, this recipe uses fresh, juicy peaches for a truly unforgettable dessert. Perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy night in, this cake is incredibly moist and flavorful. Whether you prefer it warm from the oven or cool and set, this recipe is easily adaptable to your liking. Get ready to experience a taste of Baltimore's finest baking! #BaltimorePeachCake #PeachCake #SummerDessert #MarylandRecipe #BakingRecipe #EasyRecipe #SummerBaking

See Complete Recipe
60 Minutes Or Less Low In Something Healthy Time To Make

Apple Cider Cake Donuts

Indulge in the warm, autumnal flavors of these delightful Apple Cider Cake Donuts! These aren't your average donuts—they're mini bundt cakes, perfect for a cozy breakfast or a fall afternoon treat. Each bite is bursting with the sweet taste of apple cider, creating a moist and tender texture that's irresistible. This recipe makes four perfectly sized cakes, ideal for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Get ready for a fall baking experience you won't forget!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Occasion Dietary Preparation

Autumn Minestrone

Warm up with this hearty and flavorful Autumn Minestrone Soup, a delicious Moosewood-inspired recipe perfect for chilly evenings. Bursting with seasonal vegetables like butternut squash, carrots, and kale, this comforting soup is easy to make and packed with wholesome goodness. Get ready for a taste of autumn in every bowl!

See Complete Recipe
Course Condiments Etc Cuisine 3 Steps Or Less

Apricot Chutney

Sweet and tangy Apricot Chutney recipe, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your dishes! This easy-to-follow recipe combines ripe apricots with warming spices for a delicious homemade chutney that's ready in under an hour. Ideal as a condiment for grilled meats, curries, or cheese and crackers.

See Complete Recipe
Oven Dinner Party Side Dishes Healthy

Basmati Rice With Basil And Mint

Elevate your weeknight meal with this incredibly flavorful and easy oven-baked basmati rice recipe! This foolproof method also works with long-grain white rice and jasmine rice, delivering perfectly fluffy grains every time. Inspired by Cooking Light, this aromatic rice dish is bursting with fresh basil and mint, making it a healthy and delicious side for any occasion. Get ready to impress!

See Complete Recipe
Main Dish Dietary Equipment Oven

Baked Seitan Log

Indulge in this incredibly flavorful and semi-spicy baked seitan log! This recipe delivers a satisfyingly hearty texture, perfect for slicing and pan-frying for a crispy exterior, or simmering in your favorite BBQ sauce for a tangy twist. The baking process creates a deeply savory flavor, while the optional pan-frying adds a delightful textural contrast. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this show-stopping vegan masterpiece! (Cook time excludes 30-60 minutes cooling time.)

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Course Quick Breads Breads

Best Banana Bread Gluten Free

This gluten-free banana bread recipe is a game-changer! My first attempt at a gluten-free version of my beloved banana bread recipe resulted in the perfect texture, flavor, and density – you won't believe it's gluten-free! Say goodbye to dry, crumbly gluten-free bread and hello to moist, flavorful perfection. Get ready to enjoy the best banana bread you've ever tasted!

See Complete Recipe
Breads Healthy Oven To Go

Banana Barley Bread

Craving that classic, melt-in-your-mouth banana bread? This recipe recreates the beloved Banana Bread from Calgary's Alligator Pear sandwich shop – simple, pure banana flavor with a delightful barley twist. No nuts, chocolate chips, or distractions, just the perfect balance of sweet banana and subtly nutty barley. This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike!

See Complete Recipe
Cuisine Low Protein Shellfish Creole

Barb's Gumbo

Dive into a bowl of Barb's legendary Gumbo! This flavorful recipe is easily customizable – make it with succulent shrimp, tender chicken, or both! Control the spice level to your liking, from subtly seasoned to fiery hot. This classic Southern comfort food is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a taste of Louisiana heaven!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Mixer Breakfast Course

Beat Your Chest Pancakes

A family recipe passed down for generations, these "Beat Your Chest" pancakes are so delicious and wholesome, they'll make you feel like a superhero! We've been making this recipe for years, and it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Packed with protein and flavor, these pancakes are the perfect power breakfast to fuel your day. Get ready to experience a pancake so good, you'll be boasting about it!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less Appetizers Time To Make

7 Layer Elote Dip

This vibrant 7-layer Elote dip is the ultimate party appetizer! A stunning masterpiece of creamy guacamole, sweet grilled corn, tangy sour cream, fresh cilantro, crunchy toasted corn, savory cotija cheese, and bright green onions. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests!

See Complete Recipe
Breads Time To Make Breads Preparation

Apple Cranberry Bread

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with our Apple Cranberry Bread! This festive recipe elevates the classic with a richer, eggy batter, resulting in a moist and delicious loaf perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat. The burst of tart cranberries perfectly complements the sweetness of the apples, creating a delightful balance of flavors in every bite.

See Complete Recipe
15 Minutes Or Less Main Dish Shrimp Time To Make

5 Tablespoon Shrimp Stir Fry

Ready in just 13 minutes, this vibrant shrimp stir-fry bursts with flavor! A simple 5-tablespoon marinade elevates succulent shrimp to deliciousness. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch.

See Complete Recipe
Easy Asian Time To Make Chicken Breasts

Asian Chicken Noodle Salad

This lightning-fast Asian Chicken Noodle Salad is packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes! Using convenient pre-cut veggies and rotisserie chicken (or quick-broiled teriyaki chicken), this recipe is perfect for a healthy and satisfying weeknight dinner. The vibrant flavors of the peanut dressing combine beautifully with the chewy rice noodles, crisp vegetables, and optional crunchy wonton crisps. Inspired by Cooking Light (July 2007), this recipe is a Weight Watchers friendly option (approx. 8 points without wontons). Get ready for a taste sensation!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation For 1 Or 2 Meat Time To Make

Beef Flautas

Crispy, golden Beef Flautas with a vibrant tomatillo salsa verde! This recipe, inspired by Taste of Home's Cooking for Two magazine (Fall 2006), delivers a flavor explosion in every bite. Tender shredded beef is nestled in warm tortillas, then fried to perfection. The homemade salsa verde adds a zesty, fresh counterpoint that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer!

See Complete Recipe
60 Minutes Or Less One Dish Meal Presentation Easy

Beef And Zucchini Pasta Skillet Meal

This hearty Beef and Zucchini Pasta Skillet is a family-favorite weeknight meal! No need for boiling pasta separately – everything cooks together in one pan for easy cleanup. Tender beef, vibrant zucchini, and flavorful pasta combine for a delicious and budget-friendly dinner (estimated cost under $2 per serving!). Inspired by a family recipe, this updated version is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

See Complete Recipe
From Scratch Occasion Dinner Party 60 Minutes Or Less

Anglo Indian Beef Or Lamb Stir Fry

Discover the vibrant flavors of Anglo-Indian cuisine with this quick and easy beef or lamb stir-fry! Inspired by Ruta Kahate's "5 Spices, 50 Dishes," this recipe is perfect for using leftover roast beef or lamb, but you can also use raw beef or even deli meat for a speedy weeknight meal. A delicious blend of spices creates a rich and savory dish, reflecting the diverse culinary heritage of India. Even the potato side is a star on its own! This recipe is a testament to the cultural fusion that shaped Indian cooking.

See Complete Recipe
Side Dishes Low In Something Dietary Kid Friendly

Barb's Zucchini Pancakes

These easy zucchini pancakes are a family favorite, perfect for when your garden is overflowing with summer squash! Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these savory pancakes are a delicious side dish for any meal. Get ready to enjoy a taste of summer with this quick and simple recipe.

See Complete Recipe