Black olives are a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can elevate any vegetarian dish, bringing a rich, briny depth to your meals. Whether you’re looking to enhance a simple salad, create a savory tapenade, or add zest to a pasta sauce, black olives are a pantry staple that deserves more spotlight.
Their slightly smoky, earthy flavor pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheeses, making them perfect for a wide range of vegetarian recipes.
In this blog post, we’ll explore a delightful black olives recipe that’s completely vegetarian and easy to prepare. This dish is perfect for anyone who enjoys bold flavors, healthy fats, and a Mediterranean touch.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make the most out of black olives beyond just snacking, you’re in the right place. Plus, I’ll share some tips, serving suggestions, and nutrition facts to help you appreciate this wonderful ingredient even more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This black olives vegetarian recipe is a crowd-pleaser because it’s:
- Simple yet flavorful: Uses fresh ingredients that bring out the natural taste of black olives without overpowering them.
- Healthy: Packed with heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for vegetarians and health-conscious eaters.
- Versatile: Can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or incorporated into other recipes like pasta, salads, and sandwiches.
- Quick to make: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup black olives (pitted and sliced)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or vegan cheese alternative
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Serving dish or bowl
- Spoon for mixing
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Slice the black olives and halve the cherry tomatoes. Finely chop the red onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Combine in a bowl: In a mixing bowl, add the sliced black olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and minced garlic.
- Add seasoning: Drizzle the olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the mixture. Sprinkle the dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Mix gently: Using a spoon, gently toss the ingredients until everything is well coated and combined.
- Finish with herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Optional cheese: Add crumbled feta or your chosen vegan cheese if desired. Toss lightly again.
- Chill and serve: Let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar.”
- Extra veggies: Try adding diced cucumber, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts for more texture and flavor.
- Herb swaps: Fresh basil, thyme, or dill can be used instead of parsley for different aromatic notes.
- Make it a spread: Blend this mixture with a little tahini or cream cheese for a delicious olive spread, perfect for crackers or bread.
- Warm it up: Gently sauté the mixture for a warm tapenade that’s great on toasted baguettes or mixed into pasta.
- Nutty crunch: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for some crunch and extra nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This black olive salad is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:
- Serve as a side with warm pita bread or crusty baguette slices.
- Top your favorite mixed greens for a Mediterranean-inspired salad.
- Use it as a topping for grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes.
- Add a generous spoonful to your pasta dishes for an extra burst of flavor, like in this Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe.
- Try incorporating it into a vegetarian sandwich or wrap for an appetizing lunch.
Conclusion
Incorporating black olives into your vegetarian meals is a fantastic way to add bold, savory flavors with minimal effort. This simple black olive recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and healthy fats that support a balanced diet.
Whether you’re preparing a quick snack, a side dish, or a component for a larger meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and serving suggestions to find your perfect olive-inspired dish. And if you’re interested in exploring more creative vegetarian recipes, be sure to check out our flavorful Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or the refreshing Collard Green Casserole Recipes.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Black Olives Mediterranean Salad
Description: A simple and flavorful vegetarian salad featuring black olives, fresh vegetables, and herbs. Perfect as a light meal or side dish.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine black olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley in a bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 6 g
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