Substitute for Olive Oil

Perfect olive oil alternatives for cooking, baking, and dressings. From neutral oils to butter substitutes.

Fats Updated: September 27, 2025 vegetarian vegan

Quick Answer

The best substitutes for olive oil are: Vegetable Oil, Canola Oil, Avocado Oil. Each works differently depending on your recipe needs.

Olive oil is prized for its flavor and health benefits, but sometimes you need alternatives. Whether for high-heat cooking, neutral flavor, or different nutritional profiles, these substitutes work beautifully.

Understanding Olive Oil Types

Extra virgin olive oil has the strongest flavor and lowest smoke point (375°F). Light olive oil is more neutral with a higher smoke point (470°F). Choose substitutes based on which type your recipe needs.

Matching Function to Substitute

For high-heat cooking, use avocado or vegetable oil. For flavor, try melted butter or coconut oil. For health-conscious cooking, avocado and grapeseed oils offer excellent nutritional profiles.

Substitute for Coconut Oil - Solid fat alternative
Substitute for Butter - Rich cooking fat
Substitute for Sesame Oil - Flavored oil alternative
Substitute for Red Wine Vinegar - Dressing component

Educational Disclaimer: This information is for cooking and baking purposes only.

All Substitutes at a Glance

Substitute	Ratio	Best For	Notes
Vegetable Oil	1:1 replacement	high-heat cooking, neutral-flavored baking	Neutral flavor. Higher smoke point than olive oil. Good for frying.
Canola Oil	1:1 replacement	baking, sautéing, general cooking	Light flavor. Heart-healthy. Works well in most applications.
Avocado Oil	1:1 replacement	high-heat cooking, grilling, roasting	Very high smoke point (520°F). Mild flavor. Great for high-heat methods.
Coconut Oil	1:1 replacement (use melted for liquid recipes)	baking, medium-heat cooking	Solid at room temperature. Subtle coconut flavor. Use refined for neutral taste.
Grapeseed Oil	1:1 replacement	salad dressings, light sautéing, baking	Very light flavor. High in vitamin E. Good for delicate dishes.
Melted Butter	3/4 cup butter = 1 cup olive oil	baking, low-heat cooking, flavor enhancement	Adds rich flavor. Lower smoke point. Use for taste, not high-heat cooking.