A great braai isn’t just about the fire—it’s about the flavour. And if you want to take your grilling game to the next level, the secret is in the marinade. The right blend of ingredients doesn’t just add taste; it tenderises, locks in juiciness, and transforms ordinary cuts into something unforgettable.
And the key to an exceptional marinade? Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Why Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the Ultimate Marinade Base
When it comes to marinades, extra virgin olive oil is an absolute game-changer. Unlike regular cooking oils, it brings rich, peppery notes, a smooth texture, and countless health benefits.
Here’s why it should always be your go-to base:
✅ Flavour Booster: Extra virgin olive oil absorbs and enhances the natural taste of herbs, spices, and aromatics.
✅ Tenderising Power: It helps break down meat fibres, making even the toughest cuts more succulent.
✅ Locks in Moisture: Prevents meat from drying out on the grill, ensuring juicy, melt-in-your-mouth results.
✅ Health Benefits: Packed with antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, it’s a smarter choice than processed oils.
The best part? Wilson’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil is cold-pressed for maximum flavour and purity, ensuring your marinades are as high-quality as your ingredients.
The Golden Rule of Marinades
A well-balanced marinade needs five key elements:
1️⃣ Extra Virgin Olive Oil – The foundation that carries and enhances flavours.
2️⃣ Acid – Lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, or yoghurt to help tenderise.
3️⃣ Salt & Seasonings – Essential for enhancing depth and richness.
4️⃣ Aromatics – Garlic, ginger, or fresh herbs for bold character.
5️⃣ A Touch of Sweetness – Honey or brown sugar to balance acidity and caramelise beautifully.
Once you’ve got this formula down, the flavour possibilities are endless.
3 Must-Try Extra Virgin Olive Oil Marinades
1. Classic Garlic & Herb Marinade (Best for Chicken, Veggies & Fish)
• ½ cup Wilson’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt & black pepper to taste
How to use: Combine ingredients, coat your meat or veggies, and let marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours before grilling.
2. Spicy Peri-Peri Marinade (Perfect for Chicken & Prawns)
• ½ cup Wilson’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp peri-peri sauce
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• Salt & pepper to taste
How to use: Marinate chicken or prawns for at least 1 hour before braaing for bold, fiery flavour.
3. Sweet & Tangy Balsamic Marinade (Amazing for Pork & Tofu)
• ½ cup Wilson’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt & pepper to taste
How to use: Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours for an irresistible balance of sweet, tangy, and savoury.
Pro Marinade Tips for Braai Perfection
✔ Timing is Key – Marinate chicken & fish for 30 minutes to 2 hours, beef & lamb overnight, and veggies 30 minutes.
✔ Separate Marinade for Basting – Never reuse marinade that’s touched raw meat. Save a portion beforehand for brushing while braaing.
✔ Let it Rest – After cooking, let your meat rest for 5-10 minutes to absorb all those amazing juices.
✔ Don’t Overdo It – Too many ingredients can overwhelm flavours. Keep it simple and let quality shine.
Why Wilson’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil is Your Best Choice
Not all extra virgin olive oils are the same. Wilson’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil is cold-pressed for maximum flavour, rich in antioxidants, and made to enhance every bite. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or dressing a salad, its bold, peppery notes and smooth finish make it the perfect ingredient for marinades that truly impress.
Final Thoughts
A great braai is all about flavour, technique, and quality ingredients—and it all starts with a killer marinade. Whether you’re after smoky, spicy, herby, or sweet flavours, extra virgin olive oil is your best friend in the kitchen and at the grill.
Ready to take your braai to the next level? Try one of these marinades and let us know your favourite!
🛒 Shop Wilson’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil here
Tag us in your braai creations—we’d love to see your marinade magic in action!
Prawns in Garlic Oil
Quick, flavourful, and irresistibly aromatic — these prawns in garlic oil are a true classic. Made with Wilson’s Garlic-Infused Olive Oil for a rich, golden finish that takes minutes to prepare but tastes like you’ve cooked all day.
Snoek Fishcakes with Rosemary Oil Drizzle
A South African favourite, these snoek fishcakes are crisp, herby, and finished with a drizzle of Wilson’s Rosemary Oil. Perfect for lunch or light dinners.
Beef Shin Potjie with Fluffy Dumpling
This slow-cooked Beef Shin Potjie with fluffy dumplings is a South African classic. Rich, tender, and finished with Wilson’s Rosemary Flavoured Oil for bold herb flavour.
Biltong and Caprese Salad with Olive Oil Balsamic Dressing
A proudly South African take on a classic Italian salad — this Biltong and Caprese Salad with Olive Oil Balsamic Dressing is simple, fresh, and full of flavour.
Organic Apple Cider Vinegar With the Mother
Confused about the different types of olive oil? Learn the difference between extra virgin, olive oil blends, and other high-heat oils like avocado or peanut oil. Find your perfect match with Wilson’s.
Types of Olive Oil Explained – How to Choose the Right One for Cooking and More
Confused about the different types of olive oil? Learn the difference between extra virgin, olive oil blends, and other high-heat oils like avocado or peanut oil. Find your perfect match with Wilson’s.