Green olives are more than just a tasty snack—they’re a culinary gem that can transform your dinner into a gourmet experience. Their unique flavor and versatility make them a must-have ingredient in your kitchen. In this article, we’ll explore ten mouth-watering dinner recipes featuring green olives that are easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you’re a home cook, a busy parent, or a food enthusiast, these recipes will add a delightful twist to your meals.
The Magic of Green Olives
Why Green Olives Should Be in Your Pantry
Green olives are not only flavorful but also packed with health benefits. They are rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential nutrients like vitamin E and iron. Moreover, their tangy and slightly bitter taste adds depth to a variety of dishes, from salads to stews. In addition, incorporating green olives into your meals can promote heart health and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
Selecting and Preparing Green Olives
Choosing the right olives can enhance your culinary creations. Look for varieties like Castelvetrano, known for their buttery flavor, or Manzanilla, which offers a briny taste. When preparing, you might need to pit them. To do this easily, gently press the olive with the flat side of a knife to loosen the pit. Furthermore, if you find them too salty, soaking them in water for a few minutes can reduce the brininess.
10 Delicious Dinner Recipes with Green Olives
Let’s dive into these delectable recipes that showcase the versatility of green olives.
1. Mediterranean Chicken with Green Olives
Introduction
This Mediterranean chicken dish combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant flavors of green olives and fresh herbs. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup green olives, pitted and halved
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced red onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Add Green Olives and Lemon: Introduce the green olives and lemon slices to the skillet. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish and serve hot with rice or roasted vegetables.
Tips and Variations
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine during simmering for extra depth.
- Dietary Adjustment: Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version.
- For more ideas on using Mediterranean herbs, check out our guide on Cooking with Mediterranean Herbs.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 20g
2. Green Olive and Spinach Pasta
Introduction
This delightful pasta dish marries the earthiness of spinach with the tang of green olives. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, green olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until the spinach wilts.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet. Toss everything together until well mixed.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips and Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- Protein Addition: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 15g
3. Stuffed Mushrooms with Olive Tapenade
Introduction
These stuffed mushrooms are a fantastic appetizer or side dish. The olive tapenade provides a burst of flavor that complements the earthy mushrooms perfectly.
Ingredients
- 16 large button mushrooms
- 1 cup green olives
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Fresh thyme for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
- Make the Tapenade: In a food processor, blend green olives, capers, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until coarsely chopped.
- Stuff the Mushrooms: Place mushrooms on a baking sheet. Fill each cap with the tapenade and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake: Cook for 15-20 minutes until mushrooms are tender and breadcrumbs are golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh thyme over the mushrooms before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Cheesy Option: Add grated Parmesan on top before baking.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan breadcrumbs and omit cheese.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 15g
4. Spanish Stew with Potatoes and Green Olives
Introduction
This hearty Spanish stew combines potatoes with the distinctive flavor of green olives. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green olives, halved
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Add Potatoes and Spices: Stir in diced potatoes, smoked paprika, and bay leaf.
- Add Broth: Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Then, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add Green Olives: Stir in the green olives and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations
- Add Protein: Include chickpeas or white beans for a protein boost.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 10g
5. Lemon Baked Fish with Green Olives
Introduction
This light and flavorful dish features baked fish topped with olives and lemon. It’s a healthy option that’s both simple and elegant.
Ingredients
- 4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or halibut)
- 1 cup green olives, chopped
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Fish: Place fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Add Toppings: Top each fillet with chopped green olives, lemon slices, and sprinkle with fresh dill.
- Bake: Cook for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Serve immediately with a side of steamed vegetables or salad.
Tips and Variations
- Herb Alternatives: Use parsley or basil if dill is not available.
- Grilling Option: This recipe can also be adapted for the grill.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 20g
6. Couscous Salad with Herbs and Green Olives
Introduction
This refreshing couscous salad is packed with fresh herbs and the tangy flavor of green olives. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups couscous
- 1 cup green olives, sliced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Couscous: Cook couscous according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix couscous, green olives, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, mint, and parsley.
- Make Dressing: Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture. Toss to combine.
- Serve: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace couscous with quinoa.
- Add Protein: Include chickpeas or grilled chicken.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 10g
7. Pizza with Roasted Red Peppers and Green Olives
Introduction
Upgrade your pizza night with this delicious combination of roasted red peppers and green olives. It’s a flavorful twist that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup green olives, sliced
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Olive oil for brushing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Prepare Dough: Roll out pizza dough on a floured surface. Transfer to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Assemble Pizza: Spread tomato sauce over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, then add green olives and roasted red peppers.
- Season: Sprinkle dried oregano over the top. Brush the crust edges with olive oil.
- Bake: Cook for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Tips and Variations
- Add More Toppings: Include mushrooms or onions.
- Cheese Alternative: Use feta cheese for a tangy flavor.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 15g
8. Quinoa Stuffed Peppers with Green Olives
Introduction
These stuffed peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of quinoa and green olives. It’s a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s great for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers, tops removed and seeded
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked
- 1 cup green olives, chopped
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Filling: In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, green olives, black beans, corn, tomato, cumin, chili powder, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture. Top with shredded cheese if desired.
- Bake: Place peppers in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Vegan Version: Omit the cheese or use vegan cheese.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked ground turkey or beef to the filling.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 10g
9. Rice Pilaf with Almonds and Olives
Introduction
This flavorful rice pilaf features the crunch of almonds and the tang of olives. It’s an excellent side dish that pairs well with various main courses.
Ingredients
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté Onions and Rice: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in rice and turmeric, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Add Broth: Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Mix in Olives and Almonds: Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in green olives and toasted almonds.
- Season and Serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations
- Add Vegetables: Include peas or diced carrots.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 10g
10. Shakshuka with Green Olives
Introduction
Shakshuka is a classic dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce. Adding green olives brings a delightful twist to this Middle Eastern favorite.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup green olives, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, red bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Add crushed tomatoes and green olives. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Poach the Eggs: Make small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-8 minutes until eggs are set to your liking.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve with crusty bread.
Tips and Variations
- Cheesy Addition: Sprinkle feta cheese over the top before serving.
- Adjust Spice: Modify the cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 15g
Cooking Tips and Tricks with Green Olives
Enhancing Flavors with Green Olives
Green olives have a strong, briny flavor that can enhance many dishes. For example, balancing their saltiness with sweet or acidic ingredients like tomatoes or lemons can create a harmonious taste. Additionally, pairing them with herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate your recipes. For more insights, read our article on Enhancing Flavors with Olives.
Pairing Suggestions
Green olives pair well with:
- Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, oregano
- Cheeses: Feta, goat cheese, Parmesan
- Proteins: Chicken, fish, legumes
- Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, spinach
Storage and Preservation of Green Olives
- Refrigerate: Store opened jars in the refrigerator, submerged in their brine.
- Shelf Life: Properly stored, they can last for several weeks.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it can alter their texture.
Pairing Your Green Olive Dishes
Side Dishes
- Salads: A fresh green salad complements most dishes.
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread, especially with stews and shakshuka.
- Grains: Rice, quinoa, or couscous make excellent accompaniments.
Beverage Pairings
- Wine: Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or light reds like Pinot Noir pair well.
- Beer: A light lager or wheat beer complements the flavors.
- Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with a slice of lemon or herbal iced tea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Black Olives Instead of Green Olives?
Yes, you can substitute black olives, but the flavor profile will be different. However, green olives have a distinct tanginess that adds a unique taste to these recipes.
Are These Recipes Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?
Many of these recipes are vegetarian-friendly, and some can be adapted for vegans. For instance, you can use plant-based proteins and omit cheese or use vegan alternatives.
How Do I Reduce the Saltiness of Green Olives?
If your olives are too salty, soak them in water for 15-20 minutes before using. This helps to draw out some of the excess salt.
Where Can I Find Quality Green Olives?
Quality green olives are available at most grocery stores, specialty food shops, and online retailers. Look for olives that are firm and vibrant in color.
Conclusion
Green olives are a versatile ingredient that can transform your cooking with their unique flavor and health benefits. From hearty stews to light salads, there’s a recipe for every occasion. I encourage you to try these dishes and discover the delightful taste that green olives bring to your table. For more inspiration, explore our collection of Delicious Green Olive Recipes. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any creative variations you’ve made. Let’s continue exploring delicious recipes together!
Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey with green olives. If you enjoyed these recipes, please share this article with friends and family. Furthermore, I would love to hear your feedback, so feel free to leave a comment below. Don’t forget to follow “Eric Recipes” for more mouth-watering dishes. Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest recipes delivered straight to your inbox!