FROM THE ARCHIVE: Boketto Moment with Aishwarya Iyer
It’s not breaking news, and unfortunately, the olive oils available on most shelves are low quality and can be more harmful than beneficial in the long run. That’s why among the variety of pantry staples that we’ve stocked over the years, landing on a quality olive oil has been most fulfilling— especially since it’s used inonwith nearly everything.
Meet Aishwarya Iyer, the woman who founded Brightland, a line of extra virgin olive oils that are consciously crafted in the golden state of California. And speaking of golden, Brightland is truly the gold standard— authentic olive oil that’s never rotten, over processed, or fraudulent. And absolutely no fillers or artificial preservatives.
Currently, we carry a few varieties in two sizes ( 12.7oz and 3.4oz ):
- Aurora 100% Rosemary Olive Oil that pairs brilliantly with roasted potatoes, broiled chicken, lentil soup, white bean dip, and all your coziest fare.
- Ardor 100% Chili Olive Oil to drizzle on pizza, pasta, noodles, dips, cheese plates, hummus, and gelato (yup!).
- Arise 100% Basil Olive Oil that goes well with crisp salads, pasta, pesto, hummus, fish, crostini, berries, and melon.
- Lucid 100% Lemon Olive Oil to awaken scones, pancakes, pound cake, roasted potatoes, muffins, pasta, greens, salad, and in cocktails.
Back to Aishwarya. From the Archives, we share her (timeless) story of Brightland, the problem with conventional olive oils, fostering creativity, and more.
Boketto Moment with Aishwarya Iyer
What is the inspiration and philosophy behind Brightland?
Olive oil is a foundation of wellness; a cornerstone of nourishment for thousands of years and a historic source of wellbeing and ceremony. Athena’s gift of the olive - useful for light, heat, food, medicine or perfume, was one of the most useful and beloved gifts of the gods.
After learning that most of the olive oil that Americans consume is rotten/rancid/adulterated, I wanted to do something about it, but wasn’t sure what that looked like. I truly believe in honoring the beauty of the land, and respecting the nourishment it provides. For me that was the California sun and soil. I also wanted to champion American-made, beautiful extra virgin olive oil that is also elevated— and that’s where the journey began.
When it comes to sourcing and searching for quality olive oils, what should consumers be aware of? And, how does Brightland deliver on the promise of a truly exceptional olive oil?
The three most important things when looking for quality olive oils are:
- Harvest date, not a Best By date
- Polyphenols, if they’re available, you want them!
- What kind of bottle the oil is stored in — clear containers are a big no-no! Dark glass, tin or better yet, powder coated glass (like Brightland) is the best.
Brightland works with a farm partner that is a family run olive farm in the Central Coast of California, with a certified organic mill on-site. The olives are pressed within hours of being picked, so the oil is fresh and has a high polyphenol count.
How do you foster creativity both inside and outside of the kitchen?
I’m inspired by nature, art, fashion and literature. I love to spend time in bookstores and as a classical Indian dancer, I’m constantly creatively inspired by physical movement— dancing and watching others dance.
What are a few of your absolute favorite ways to cook + create with Brightland?
Currently, Since I have a sweet tooth, and I love baking, I’ve been making olive oil cakes and brownies. I also drizzle LUCID or ARDOR on some dates for a snack/dessert— depending on if I want a little kick or brightness.
How do you visualize or describe your personal Boketto Moment?
My favorite Boketto Moments are with my dog. When I’m walking him, or simply cuddling with him, I’m focusing on nothing else but the present moment. It’s a form of meditation for me!