3 Amazing Green Olive Recipes You’ll Love Instantly

Have you ever wondered how to turn a simple jar of green olives into a show-stopping dish? Green olives, with their briny, tangy flavor, are a culinary secret weapon that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for fresh inspiration, these versatile little gems are here to transform your kitchen creations.

In this recipe, we’re diving into the world of olives to create something truly special. Perfect for appetizers, salads, or even main dishes, green olives bring a burst of Mediterranean flair to your table. Want to wow your loved ones or guests without spending hours in the kitchen? Let’s get started!

Why Green Olives?

Green olives are more than just a tasty addition to your charcuterie board—they’re a flavor-packed ingredient that can elevate any dish. Their unique profile is a delightful mix of briny, tangy, and slightly bitter notes, making them a standout in both simple and complex recipes.

But their appeal goes beyond taste. Olives are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins like Vitamin E. These nutrients not only support heart health but also add a wholesome touch to your meals.

What makes green olives truly special is their versatility. They’re perfect for quick, flavorful recipes because they require minimal prep and pair beautifully with a variety of ingredients. Whether you’re whipping up a tapenade, tossing them into a salad, or simmering them in a savory sauce, green olives bring a burst of Mediterranean charm to your table. Ready to see how? Let’s dive into the recipes!

Recipe 1: Green Olive Tapenade

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful appetizer that’s sure to impress, this Green Olive Tapenade is your answer. Creamy, savory, and packed with Mediterranean flair, it’s perfect for spreading on crusty bread, pairing with crackers, or using as a dip for fresh veggies. Plus, it comes together in just minutes!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need (makes about 1 cup):

• 1 cup pitted green olives (use Manzanilla or Picholine for best results)
• 2 tbsp capers, drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• A pinch of black pepper (optional, to taste)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your tapenade:

1. Prep the Ingredients: If your green olives aren’t pitted, remove the pits for easier blending.
2. Blend the Base: In a food processor, combine the green olives, capers, garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
3. Add the Olive Oil: While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth but still slightly chunky.
4. Season and Garnish: Taste and add a pinch of black pepper if desired. Transfer to a bowl and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Pro Tip: For a smoother tapenade, blend longer. For a chunkier texture, pulse briefly.

Serving Suggestions for Green Olive Tapenade

This versatile tapenade is a star in so many ways:

• As a Dip: Pair with fresh veggies like cucumber slices, bell peppers, or carrot sticks.
• On Bread: Spread on toasted baguette slices or rustic sourdough for a quick appetizer.
• In Sandwiches: Use it as a flavorful spread for sandwiches or wraps.
• With Cheese: Serve alongside a cheese board for a tangy contrast to creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese.

This Green Olive Tapenade is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and let its bold flavors become a staple in your kitchen!

Recipe 2: Mediterranean Green Olive Salad

If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, this Mediterranean Green Olive Salad is here to deliver. Packed with crisp veggies, tangy olives, and creamy feta, it’s a showstopper that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for a light lunch or a colorful side dish, this salad is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need (serves 4):

• 1 cup pitted green olives, halved
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to assemble your salad:

1. Prep the Veggies: Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.
2. Combine the Base: In a large bowl, toss together the green olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. Add the Feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 1 lemon juice, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Toss and Serve: Pour the zesty dressing over the salad and lightly mix to coat every bite with flavor.. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tip: For the best flavor, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile:

• As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb for a complete meal. For a crispy twist, try it alongside New York Fried Chicken for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
• Light Lunch: Serve it on its own with a slice of crusty bread for a refreshing midday meal.
• Meal Prep: Double the recipe and store it in an airtight container for a quick, healthy option throughout the week.

Bright, fresh, and full of Mediterranean charm, this Salad is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and simple, wholesome ingredients. Enjoy!

Recipe 3: Green Olive and Lemon Chicken

If you’re looking for a fuss-free dinner that’s both tangy and savory, this Green Olive and Lemon Chicken is your answer. Made in one pan, it’s incredibly easy to prepare yet delivers restaurant-quality flavors. The combination of briny olives, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need (serves 4):

• 4 juicy bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or swap for tender chicken breasts if you like)
• 1 cup pitted green olives
• 1 lemon (sliced into rounds, plus extra for garnish)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp aromatic dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme for a brighter flavor)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your one-pan masterpiece:

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a big skillet on medium/high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Add the Olives and Lemon: Stir in the green olives and lemon slices, then return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up.
6. Simmer and Cook: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let the chicken simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional lemon slices for a bright finish.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in the seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Couscous: A light, lemony couscous complements the tangy flavors perfectly.
• Roasted Veggies: Add a side of roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus for a complete meal.

Tangy, savory, and effortlessly delicious, this Olive and Lemon Chicken is a weeknight dinner hero you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!

Tips for Cooking with Green Olives

Green olives are a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish, but a few simple tips can help you make the most of their unique flavor. Here’s how to cook with them like a pro:

• Rinse for Milder Flavor: If you find green olives too briny, give them a quick rinse under cold water before using. This helps tone down their saltiness while keeping their tangy flavor intact.
• Use Pitted Olives: Save time by opting for pitted green olives. They’re easier to chop, blend, or stuff, making prep a breeze.
• Balance with Bright Flavors: Green olives pair beautifully with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano. These combinations enhance their natural brininess and add depth to your dishes.
• Experiment with Textures: Blend them into a smooth tapenade, chop them for salads, or leave them whole for stews and braises. Their versatility makes them perfect for both rustic and refined recipes.
• Store Properly: Keep green olives in their brine or olive oil in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for weeks.

With these tips, you’ll be able to unlock the full potential of green olives and create dishes that are bursting with Mediterranean charm. Happy cooking!

Conclusion

Green olives are truly a culinary gem—briny, tangy, and endlessly versatile. Packed with health benefits like healthy fats and antioxidants, they’re as nutritious as they are delicious. Whether you’re whipping up a creamy tapenade, tossing together a vibrant salad, or simmering a one-pan chicken dish, these little flavor powerhouses can transform any meal into something extraordinary.

I hope these 3 amazing green olive recipes have inspired you to get creative in the kitchen. Each dish is simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. So, why not give them a try?

Which recipe are you excited to try? Let me know in the comments below—I’d love to hear about your cooking adventures! Don’t forget to share your results.😊

Green Olive Tapenade

Chef Ava

A creamy, savory spread perfect for bread, crackers, or dipping. Ready in minutes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4

Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup pitted green olives Manzanilla or Picholine recommended
• 2 tbsp capers drained
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
• A pinch of black pepper optional, to taste

Instructions

 

• Prep the Ingredients: Pit olives if needed.
• Blend the Base: Pulse olives, capers, garlic, and lemon juice in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
• Add Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth but slightly chunky.
• Season and Garnish: Add black pepper (optional) and garnish with parsley.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Keyword green olive tapenade, easy appetizer, Mediterranean dip

FAQ About Green Olives