Kalamata Olive

Olea europaea 'Kalamata' Fruit (Culinary Vegetable)

Kalamata Olive Fruit (Culinary Vegetable)

At a Glance

  • Category Fruit (Culinary Vegetable)

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond a garnish: Kalamata olives are a flavor bomb, elevating everything from tapenades to braised meats."

Definition

A large, dark purple olive from Greece, distinct for its almond shape, meaty texture, and rich, fruity, wine-like flavor.

Nutrient Density Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
Origin and Name Native to Kalamata, Greece, and named after the city.
Preservation Method Typically brine-cured in water, salt, red wine vinegar, and often olive oil.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Kalamata Olive are:

Fruity Briny Savory Slightly Tart Wine-like

Chef’s Secret

Pit and crush Kalamata olives slightly before adding them to sauces or dressings to release their full, intense flavor.

Best Substitutes

Niçoise Olives

for similar brine/texture
Ratio 1:1

Black Olives

less complex flavor
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose plump, firm olives with a consistent dark purple color. If buying loose, ensure the brine is clear and fresh-smelling.

Recipes Using Kalamata Olive

15 Minutes Or Less Preparation Low In Something Main Ingredient

Asparagus Bocconcini

This simple yet elegant Asparagus Bocconcini Salad is a crowd-pleaser! Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe features tender roasted asparagus, creamy bocconcini cheese, and briny olives, all tossed in a bright vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer.

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Low In Something Low In Something Dietary Low Carb

It's Greek To Me Baked Feta Chicken

This incredibly flavorful baked feta chicken recipe is a family favorite! Imagine juicy, tender chicken infused with bright Mediterranean herbs, creamy feta, and a burst of lemon. Effortlessly elegant yet surprisingly simple to make, this dish tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen, but it's ready in under an hour! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Salmon European Seafood Fish

Baked Mediterranean Salmon

Escape to the Mediterranean with this vibrant and healthy baked salmon recipe! Flaky salmon fillets are coated in a fragrant herb and lemon mixture, then baked to perfection. This recipe is incredibly versatile – easily substitute fresh tuna for the salmon and enjoy the same delicious flavors. A quick, easy, and impressive weeknight meal!

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Main Ingredient Eggs Dairy Main Ingredient Course

Bacon Gruyere Cheese And Egg Sandwiches With Hollandaise

Elevate your breakfast or brunch with this decadent Bacon Gruyere and Egg Sandwich recipe, inspired by Food & Wine magazine! This show-stopping dish is perfect for impressing guests, though it requires a bit of prep work – entirely worth it for the incredible flavor payoff. The creamy hollandaise sauce is the star, perfectly complementing the savory bacon, rich Gruyere cheese, and perfectly scrambled eggs. Get ready for a culinary masterpiece!

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3 Steps Or Less Preparation Occasion Hidden Valley Ranch

Athenian Ranch Pork Empanadas Rsc

Experience a taste of Greece with these incredible Athenian Ranch Pork Empanadas! This recipe, inspired by a Hidden Valley contest entry, combines savory ground pork with vibrant red bell peppers, shallots, artichoke hearts, and a creamy blend of feta, Parmesan, Greek yogurt, and Hidden Valley Original Ranch dressing. Wrapped in a convenient refrigerated pizza dough crust, these empanadas are surprisingly easy to make and bake to golden perfection in just 15 minutes. A delightful fusion of flavors – get ready for a delicious Greek party in your mouth!

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Easy European Main Dish Time To Make

Baked Rigatoni With Kalamata Olives

Indulge in this delightful baked rigatoni recipe! A symphony of savory Italian sausage, juicy tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and fragrant basil, all baked to perfection in a creamy mozzarella and parmesan cheese sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish without the fuss. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Chicken Chicken

Mediterranean Chicken With Pepperoncini And Kalamatas

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this slow cooker recipe! Tender chicken simmers in a bath of spicy pepperoncini, briny Kalamata olives, and fragrant garlic, all finished with a luscious lemon-sour cream sauce. This easy, flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight meal and is ready in just over six hours. Serve over fluffy couscous or your favorite rice for a complete and satisfying Mediterranean experience. Inspired by a beloved Allrecipes recipe.

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Dips Dips European Greek

7 Layer Dip Greek Style

This vibrant 7-layer dip puts a delicious Mediterranean spin on the classic Mexican favorite! Creamy hummus, savory lamb (or easily adaptable vegetarian!), crisp vegetables, and zesty tzatziki create a flavor explosion. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight meal, served with warm pita chips. Get ready for this crowd-pleasing recipe to disappear in minutes!

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60 Minutes Or Less Lentils Time To Make Course

Baby Spinach And Lentil Salad

This vibrant Baby Spinach and Lentil Salad is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal or side dish. The earthy lentils are perfectly complemented by the fresh spinach, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Vegetables Tomatoes Pasta Rice And Grains

Aegean Eggplant Aubergine Tomato Orzo Casserole

A vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean casserole! This Aegean Eggplant & Tomato Orzo Casserole combines tender eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and fluffy orzo pasta in a creamy, herb-infused sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers incredible taste. Skip the peeling for extra rustic charm, or peel for a smoother texture – it’s your call!

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Time To Make Dietary Low In Something Time To Make

Impossible Bisquick Spinach Feta Pie

This unbelievably easy Spinach Feta Pie comes together in minutes using Bisquick! Inspired by a lost recipe, this version is even better – creamy feta, vibrant spinach, and a flaky Bisquick crust bake into a comforting, delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to impress!

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Main Ingredient Lasagna Time To Make Main Ingredient

Antipasto Lasagna

A lighter take on the classic lasagna, this Antipasto Lasagna from Cooking Light is bursting with Mediterranean flavors! Layers of tender pasta, vibrant artichoke hearts, sweet bell peppers, spicy pepperoni, and salty olives are nestled in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. A quick and easy weeknight meal that's both satisfying and delicious!

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Occasion Appetizers Time To Make Gifts

Smoky Sweet Bacon Cheese Spread

Craving a flavor explosion? This Smoky Sweet Bacon Cheese Spread delivers a unique blend of Southwestern and Mediterranean flavors—smoky chipotle, salty bacon, sweet cranberries, and tangy feta. Perfect as a party appetizer, holiday gift, or a unique weeknight snack! Learn how to make this incredible spread, plus two delicious serving options: crispy tortilla wheels and savory stuffed mushrooms. Get ready to impress your guests!

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Vegetables Brunch Italian No Cook

Antipasto Style White Bean Salad

☀️ **Escape to the Mediterranean with this vibrant White Bean Salad!** ☀️ This healthy and refreshing Spanish-Mediterranean inspired recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch. Bursting with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty vinaigrette, it's the perfect side dish or light meal. Easy to make and even better the next day!

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Vegetables Preparation Greek Greens

Athenian Blintzes

Experience the taste of Greece with these delightful Athenian Blintzes! Thin crepes are delicately filled with a savory mixture of spinach, salty feta cheese, and briny Kalamata olives. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a delicious and authentic Greek-inspired dish perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or a unique dinner option. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this flavorful twist on a classic!

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One Dish Meal Healthy Low Saturated Fat Main Dish

Artichoke And Olive Marinara Sauce

A vibrant and flavorful artichoke and olive marinara sauce, ready in under 40 minutes! This quick and easy pasta sauce recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Impress your family with its burst of Mediterranean flavors – a delicious combination of garlic, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, and briny olives.

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European Finger Food Presentation Cuisine

My Muffuletta Sandwich

A New Orleans classic! This Muffuletta sandwich recipe recreates the iconic flavors of the famous Italian-American sub. Learn how to make the signature olive salad from scratch, then layer it onto a crusty round loaf with savory salami, mortadella, provolone, and more. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner!

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Main Dish Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Stews

Balsamic Braised Pot Roast

Indulge in this decadent Balsamic Braised Pot Roast, a culinary masterpiece that will melt in your mouth! Tender pot roast, slow-cooked to perfection in a rich balsamic-infused sauce, served alongside perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is adapted from a family favorite, elevated with precise instructions for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

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