Best Kalamata Olives Brands

Kalamata olives are an irresistibly tasty and nutritious snack that everyone can enjoy.

But with so many brands on the market, knowing which ones are the best can be challenging.

We will explore their history and nutritional value and offer tips for optimal storing and preparation.

Table of Contents

What Are Kalamata Olives and Where Do They Come From?

They are a type of Greek black olive renowned for their deep, rich flavor.

These small to medium-sized olives have an array of shapes, from almond-like to egg-shaped.

As their name implies, these olives originate from Kalamata in Greece but can also be found elsewhere in the Mediterranean region, such as in Italy or Turkey.

They come in two main varieties, "green" (less ripe) and "black," which is more mature.

The green variety has a milder taste, while the black type offers more intense flavors with notes of saltiness, sweetness, and tartness.

Cultivation

They are harvested by hand in late autumn when they reach peak ripeness.

After being picked from their tree or bush, they undergo brining - this involves soaking them in water or oil for several weeks until their bitterness is reduced.

The exact duration depends on the desired degree of ripeness:

Shorter brining periods: Lead to firmer, acidic olives.
Longer brining periods: Provide softer and sweeter fruit.

Once ready, these delicious treats can be eaten as snacks or used to add depth and complexity to cooked dishes such as salads or pizzas.

Health Benefits

Kalamata olives not only taste amazing, but they provide numerous health advantages as well.

Their high content of healthy fats like omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and potassium helps regulate blood pressure levels.

These potent antioxidants also protect us against cell damage caused by free radicals in our bodies.

Studies suggest consuming them may reduce inflammation due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

All the facts mentioned above make them an ideal snack for those looking for natural ways to reduce joint pain or improve gut health!

History and Origins of Kalamata Olives

Kalamata olives have been grown for centuries in Greece and remain popular today.

As an ancient crop, this variety is one of the world's most beloved varieties due to its deep purple hue and distinctive flavor that makes it highly sought-after around the globe.

Ancient Production Methods

They have been harvested similarly for centuries: by handpicking ripe fruit from trees, sorting them by size, packing them in brine or saltwater, and submerging them for several days to months. It preserves their unique flavor while helping maintain them.

Nowadays, many producers utilize mechanical harvesters; however, many small family farms still use traditional harvest methods today.

Modern Commercial Production

Kalamata olive production today begins with selecting fruits at peak ripeness; farmers usually sort them according to size before processing them further.

Then, depending on the desired texture and taste profile, some producers blanch their olives in hot water or steam before packing them in brine or saltwater mixtures to reduce bitterness while keeping color and firmness over time.

In the end, they are either cold-pressed or centrifuged to remove any remaining oil before being canned or jarred for sale.

Many brands have emerged in recent years, offering high-quality Kalamata olives in various forms, such as whole, pitted, sliced, and chopped.

Some popular brands known for producing exceptional olives include Divina, Peloponnese, Gaea, and Jeff's Naturals.

Each brand has its distinct flavor profile and texture, making them suitable for many culinary applications, from salads to pasta dishes, pizzas, and sandwiches.

Whether you prefer tangy and salty olives or mild and buttery, there is a product for everyone to satisfy your taste buds.

Divina Market

Divina Market kalamata olives are an irresistible ingredient that can be used in many dishes.

Their distinctive flavor - slightly salty with a fruity undertone - makes them great for snacking or adding to salads, pizza, pasta dishes, and more recipes.

Sourced from Greece, these olives undergo careful selection for quality and flavor before being marinated in herbs like oregano and garlic red pepper - which further enhances their taste.

Peloponesse

Peloponnese is renowned for being the pioneering brand of Greek food products that brought authentic Greek flavors to the world.

For decades the Peloponnese brand has been producing high-quality Kalamata Olives - quickly becoming a trusted name within the food industry.

They have since widened their product lineup to include other Greek food staples, but Kalamata olives remain their main item.

Gaea Greece

Gaea Kalamata olives are an exceptional variety originating from Greece's region of Kalamata. They're renowned for their distinctive taste, texture, and high nutritional value.

They offer a fruity, mildly salty flavor with just enough bitterness.

Each olive is hand-harvested without chemical preservatives or additives and is entirely organic.

As a result, Gaea Kalamata olives are an excellent source of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that protect the body against free radical damage.

These olives can be used in many dishes and make great additions to salads, sandwiches, pizza, and pasta dishes.

Jeff's Naturals

Jeff's Naturals Kalamata olives are a premium product harvested from Greece's sun-drenched farms.

Carefully handpicked to maintain their plumpness, crispiness, and flavor, these olives are delicately cured in an exclusive brine for an unparalleled taste. They are great for pasta dishes, salads, pizzas, and sandwiches.

Jeff's Naturals Kalamata olives are an absolute must-have in every pantry for those seeking an authentic olive that hasn't been compromised with chemicals or additives.

How to Store and Prepare Kalamata Olives

Storing and preparing Kalamata olives is a simple task that can be accomplished in just a few steps.

Storing Kalamata Olives

Unopened or airtight sealed olives should be stored away from direct sunlight or heat.

The container should be filled with enough olive oil to submerge the olives completely. Extra-virgin olive oil helps preserve freshness longer.

Refrigerating Kalamata Olives

Kalamata olives can be stored in the refrigerator to extend their freshness since they spoil quickly at room temperature.

Place them into an airtight container before refrigerating, keeping any moisture or odors from other food items away.

You may also choose to freeze your olives before storage which helps preserve flavor and texture for extended periods.

Preparing Kalamata Olives

Preparing Kalamata olives for consumption is a relatively straightforward process:

First, drain any extra olive oil from the container before serving them.
To add visual interest, soak them in boiling water for fifteen minutes.
Pat dry with a paper towel before adding them to salads, tapas plates, or other dishes as desired.

Alternative ways to prepare Kalamata olives

Marinating kalamata olives is one of the tastiest ways possible:

Marinating them is the best way to enhance their flavor and texture. Begin by mixing one cup of extra virgin olive oil with one-fourth cup each of freshly squeezed lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and dry white wine.
Add two minced cloves of garlic, one teaspoon each of oregano and thyme leaves, one teaspoon of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Mix thoroughly, pour over the olives in a shallow container or bowl, and allow them to marinate at room temperature for at least four hours before serving.

Stuffed Kalamata Olives

Stuffed Kalamata olives make an exquisite appetizer that can be part of an antipasti platter or hors d'oeuvre:

Start by filling the olives with your desired fillings, such as feta cheese, anchovies, sundried tomatoes, roasted peppers, capers, or fresh herbs like rosemary or basil.
Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in preheated oven until lightly golden brown (around 10 minutes).
Enjoy warm or cold with toothpicks for easy eating!