But of much more importance to those who enjoy food is the wonderful flavor that olive oil adds to it.

You pour the oil in, heat it, add the potatoes and close the lid.

In a heavy 6-quart pot over high heat, warm olive oil and add onion.

Put oil in 10- or 12-inch skillet, and turn heat to medium-high; a minute later, add shrimp.

Put oil in small skillet over medium-low heat; a minute later add garlic.

Analysts said the Iraqi oil would only add to an oversupply.

"Some sesame oil and ginger add to the overall flavor portrait."

But although a little olive oil adds flavor to the mix, too much makes it overly rich.

In a large heavy-bottomed pot over low heat, warm olive oil and add garlic.

And with energy prices rising, a more profitable oil and gas industry added 9,000 jobs last month.