When it comes to Mediterranean cooking, few ingredients are as versatile and flavorful as black olives. Whether you’re looking for a rich and savory spread to accompany your favorite breads, or a burst of brininess to elevate your pasta dishes, black olives have got you covered. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of what black olives have to offer.
From classic tapenades and stuffed chicken breasts to bold and zesty salads and savory breads, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in a world of delicious black olive goodness!
Garlic and Black Olive Tapenade
Elevate your snack game with this savory and aromatic tapenade recipe. This flavorful spread is perfect for crackers, crostini, or as a dip for vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted black olives
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine black olives, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Process until smooth.
2. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
3. Add lemon juice and blend for another minute, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 10 minutes
Black Olive and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with the savory flavors of black olives and crumbly feta cheese. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pitted black olives, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together black olives, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the olive-feta mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Black Olive Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines the richness of black olives with the creaminess of feta cheese and the brightness of fresh parsley.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., pappardelle or linguine)
– 1/2 cup Kalamata black olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add black olives and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they release their juices.
5. Stir in feta cheese and white wine vinegar.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the skillet mixture, tossing to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Olive and Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful focaccia, bursting with the richness of black olives and the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chopped pitted green olives, such as Cerignola or Castelvetrano
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and flour; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle black olives and sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the dough.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Greek Salad with Kalamata Black Olives
Experience the authentic flavors of Greece with this simple and refreshing salad recipe featuring Kalamata black olives.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata black olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata black olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Black Olive and Anchovy Pizza
This Mediterranean-inspired pizza combines the brininess of anchovies with the richness of black olives, all on a crispy crust. Perfect for those who love bold flavors, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/4 cup black olives, pitted
– 12-15 anchovy fillets, rinsed and drained
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
2. Spread the black olives evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Arrange anchovy fillets on top of the olives in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and toppings are heated through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Olive and Rosemary Bread
Elevate your bread game with this Mediterranean-inspired recipe, featuring the bold flavors of black olives and rosemary. Perfect for a rustic dinner or as a snack to accompany your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup pitted black olives, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups flour to the bowl; mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead in remaining 2 cups flour, black olives, and rosemary until dough is smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes).
4. Place dough on a floured surface; shape into a round or oblong loaf.
5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Olive and Goat Cheese Tart
This elegant tart combines the rich flavors of black olives and goat cheese, perfect for a sophisticated dinner party or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of sweet and savory notes will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup pitted green black olives, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread goat cheese evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange black olive slices on top of the goat cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Black Olive Hummus
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and spicy twist on classic hummus. The addition of black olives and red pepper flakes gives a bold flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and chopped
– 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, black olives, red pepper flakes, and salt.
3. Blend on high speed for about 2 minutes, or until smooth and creamy.
4. With the blender or food processor running, slowly add the olive oil and water.
5. Continue blending for another minute, or until the hummus is well combined and creamy.
6. Serve with pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Black Olive and Lemon Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of black olives with the brightness of lemon. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potatoes in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and top with black olives and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Olive and Caper Salad Dressing
This rich and flavorful dressing is perfect for elevating your salads to the next level. With its bold, umami flavor profile, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup black olives, pitted
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine black olives, capers, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in red wine vinegar and olive oil.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is emulsified and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Black Olive and Eggplant Caponata
This classic Sicilian condiment is a sweet and savory mixture of eggplant, black olives, capers, and tomatoes. Perfect as an antipasto or used as a topping for pasta, meatballs, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup pitted black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the eggplant and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the sliced olives, capers, and garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the mixture for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
6. Let the caponata cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Black Olive and Artichoke Dip
Perfect for parties or movie nights, this rich and creamy dip combines the brininess of black olives with the subtle sweetness of artichokes. Serve with crudités, pita chips, or crackers for a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, black olives, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly bubbly.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dippers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Olive and Tomato Bruschetta
A classic Italian appetizer with a twist, this bruschetta combines the savory flavor of black olives with sweet and tangy tomatoes on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup pitted black olives, sliced
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and minced garlic.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Arrange the tomato mixture on top of the toasted bread slices.
7. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Olive and Walnut Pesto Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of black olives and walnuts with the creaminess of pesto, all tossed with al dente pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup pitted black olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, black olives, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Process until well combined.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Scrape down sides as needed to ensure everything is well mixed.
4. Add cooked pasta to the pesto mixture and toss until coated, adding reserved pasta water if desired for a creamier sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Olive and Red Pepper Quiche
This savory quiche combines the rich flavors of black olives, sweet red peppers, and creamy eggs for a delicious and satisfying brunch or breakfast dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup pitted black olives, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, roasted and diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, and parsley.
4. Arrange black olives and red peppers on the bottom of the pie crust.
5. Pour egg mixture over the filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
7. Sprinkle feta cheese on top (if using) and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Olive and Garlic Roasted Lamb
This show-stopping dish combines the richness of lamb with the savory flavors of black olives and garlic, perfect for a special occasion or cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 kg leg of lamb
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 100g pitted green or black olives, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 220°C/425°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olives, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb leg, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the lamb on a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Roast for 20 minutes per kilogram, or until the lamb reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Baste with pan juices every 30 minutes to keep the lamb moist.
7. Remove from oven when cooked to your liking; let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes per kilogram.
Black Olive and Chickpea Stew
This Mediterranean-inspired stew is a flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the rich taste of black olives with the creamy texture of chickpeas. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is easy to make and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup pitted black olives, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, black olives, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chickpeas and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with these 18 savory black olive recipes! From classic tapenade to stuffed chicken, pasta dishes, and more, we’ve got you covered. Enjoy a variety of mouthwatering dishes like garlic and black olive focaccia, black olive and feta salad, and even spicy black olive hummus. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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