Are you looking for a taste of the Mediterranean to brighten up your meals? Look no further! Olives are a staple ingredient in many Mediterranean dishes, and when paired with other flavorful ingredients like feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and chorizo, the result is nothing short of delicious. In this article, we’ll explore 18 recipes that showcase the best of olives and Mediterranean ingredients. From classic tapenades to innovative pasta dishes, these recipes are sure to inspire your cooking and add some excitement to your meal routine.
Mediterranean Olive Tapenade
Elevate your gatherings with this rich and flavorful Mediterranean Olive Tapenade, perfect for spreading on crackers or using as a dip. This classic Provençal condiment combines the savory flavors of Kalamata olives, garlic, and capers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine olives, garlic, and capers. Process until coarsely chopped.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil and lemon juice. Continue processing until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the tapenade to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Greek Olive and Feta Salad
This refreshing salad is a classic Greek combination of salty feta cheese, briny olives, and tangy herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of feta cheese (6 oz), crumbled
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, and chopped parsley.
2. Drizzle the red wine vinegar and olive oil over the top of the salad, tossing gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time), 30 minutes (refrigeration time)
Olive and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish combines the savory flavors of Kalamata olives with the sweet, chewy texture of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a romantic evening in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and olive-sun-dried tomato mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, adding salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using) to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken with Green Olive Sauce
This recipe combines the richness of chicken with the brininess of green olives, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together green olives, olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the green olive mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Olive and Herb Focaccia Bread
This savory Italian-inspired bread is perfect for serving with soups, stews, or as a side to your favorite pasta dishes. The combination of Kalamata olives, fresh herbs, and aromatic olive oil creates a flavorful and textured loaf that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
4. Gradually add remaining flour and mix until a sticky ball forms.
5. Knead the dough on floured surface for 10 minutes.
6. Place dough on prepared baking sheet, shape into rectangle, and dimple with fingers.
7. Sprinkle olives, rosemary, and thyme evenly over the dough.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Olive and Chorizo Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful and aromatic representation of Spanish cuisine, packed with the bold flavors of chorizo sausage and briny olives. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in olives, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Olive and Caper Stuffed Salmon
This recipe combines the richness of olive oil with the salty zip of capers, all wrapped up in a tender piece of salmon. The result is a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olives, capers, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Place each salmon fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the olive-caper mixture evenly over each fillet.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Olive and Artichoke Pizza
A classic combination of Mediterranean flavors, this olive and artichoke pizza is a flavorful twist on the traditional favorite. With its perfect balance of salty olives, tangy artichokes, and rich cheese, it’s sure to be a hit with pizza lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spread the pizza crust with a thin layer of olive oil.
3. Arrange the sliced olives and chopped artichoke hearts on top of the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the toppings.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Olive and Lemon Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roast chicken game with this refreshing twist that combines the brightness of lemon zest and the savory depth of olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, zested
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, sliced olives, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and toss in a large roasting pan.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Olive and Garlic Marinated Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic marinated shrimp recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of briny olives and pungent garlic creates a rich and savory sauce that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional olives and lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Olive and Goat Cheese Tart
A flavorful and elegant tart that combines the richness of goat cheese with the savory goodness of olives, perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface 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 sliced olives on top of the goat cheese.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the pastry with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Olive and Red Pepper Hummus
Transform plain hummus into a flavorful treat with the addition of olives and red peppers. This Mediterranean-inspired dip is perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup roasted red pepper, diced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, olives, and red pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Add lemon juice, salt, and olive oil. Blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Olive and Eggplant Caponata
This classic Sicilian condiment is a flavorful accompaniment to bread, pasta, or grilled meats. With its rich olive oil base and sweet-and-sour sauce, it’s perfect for adding depth to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced eggplant and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the sliced olives, capers, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar and honey.
5. Pour the vinegar mixture over the eggplant mixture and stir to combine.
6. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Olive and Rosemary Lamb Chops
Elevate your lamb chops game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of olives and rosemary. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb chops
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sliced olives, chopped rosemary, and minced garlic.
3. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Brush the olive oil on each lamb chop, then top with the olive-rosemary mixture, dividing it evenly among the chops.
5. Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lamb reaches desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive and Anchovy Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet flavorful bruschetta recipe, combining the salty goodness of anchovies with the savory sweetness of olives.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, sliced olives, and chopped anchovies.
3. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Remove from the oven and top each slice with a spoonful of the tomato-olive mixture.
5. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive and Chickpea Stew
This stew is a perfect blend of savory, spicy, and comforting flavors. With the richness of olives and the creaminess of chickpeas, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup of pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chickpeas, olives, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Olive and Pesto Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful recipe that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the brightness of olives and pesto. Perfect for a quick and impressive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sliced olives, pesto, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the olive-pesto mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top of the stuffed mushrooms.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive and Tomato Couscous Salad
This Mediterranean-inspired salad combines the creamy texture of couscous with the brininess of olives and the sweetness of tomatoes. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked couscous
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked couscous, sliced olives, and halved cherry tomatoes.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the Mediterranean with these 18 delicious recipes that feature olives as the star ingredient! From savory tapenades and salads, to pasta dishes and seafood options, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy classic combinations like olive and feta or olive and sun-dried tomato, or try something new like olive and chorizo stew or olive and goat cheese tart. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table.
Leave a Reply