Heart-Smart Oils

Baffled by row after row of cooking oils in the store? Our label guide will help you choose the most flavorful, healthful oils.

By Marsha McCulloch, M.S., R.D.

Although many cookbook recipes simply call for “vegetable oil,” there are important differences among oils, both in flavor and in health benefits. Calorie comparisons won’t really help, as all cooking oils provide about 120 calories and 14 grams of fat per tablespoon.

Instead, check out our top heart-smart oil picks. We favored oils that:

• are highest in heart-healthy monounsaturated fat
• maximize flavor, quality, and nutrition
• are priced reasonably
• are readily available

Read on for our top four picks and other oil tips.