Top Reasons to Buy High Quality Olive Oil

Raise your hand if you’ve ever been in the grocery store, looking at the shelves jammed full of olive oil, wondering “what’s the big deal?” We get it – with the hectic pace of life today it can be really tempting to just grab the nearest bottle of olive oil from whatever store you’re in and take it home to cook dinner that night.

But wait, don’t fall into that trap. While buying olive oil from the store isn’t bad, there are a lot of benefits that come when you simply upgrade your oil. We broke down the top reasons to buy high quality olive oil so check them out below.

1. Increased Health Benefits

When you purchase a high-quality olive oil, you’re pretty much guaranteed that it will be extra virgin. Extra virgin olive oils are made from the first cold pressing of the olive fruit. This method of extraction doesn’t use any heat or chemicals to remove the oils which means that all of the nutritional health benefits of the oil remain intact and transfer to the oil itself.

Wondering exactly what kind of health benefits you get from olive oil? They contain a high number of healthy fats, they are high in antioxidants, they’ve been linked to diabetes prevention and they can help lower blood pressure.

2. You Know Where Your Olive Oil Came From

With the rise in the popularity of olive oil over the last few decades, there came an increase in the presence of fake olive oils on the market. In fact, the market became over run with oils that were only partially comprised of true olive oil and were mixed and “watered down” with other, less healthy oils like vegetable and corn oils. In truth it became difficult for the reputable providers of olive oil to maintain high standards for the industry.

Today if you’re buying a high-quality extra virgin olive oil the label should tell you all that you need to know about your oil. It should include appellation telling you where the oil was produced, it will include a bottling and expiration date as well.

If you’re lucky enough to find a specialty retailer for olive oils then that’s the best way to ensure a fresh product. At D’Olivo we source our oils from Veronica Foods, an extremely reputable wholesaler, who adheres to the strictest standards for quality ensuring all our oils bear the designation of Ultra-Premium.

3. Before Purchase Your Oil Will Be Properly Cared For

If you’re purchasing a high-quality olive oil, then the most likely place to find these is from a small specialty retailer of olive oils. These retailers are extremely knowledgeable about olive oil and take care of the oils in an extremely methodical fashion.

As a fresh product, olive oil can easily be damaged by exposure to heat and light which most often occurs if it is stored improperly. At D’Olivo all of our oils are stored in large, stainless-steal fusti to ensure the oils are not exposed to heat or light while on the shelves. Oils are then transferred to dark glass bottles to ensure they’re protected while waiting for customers to pick them up. Some oils may even be bottled fresh out the fusti to ensure the freshest product.

In addition, as a specialty retailer olive oil is our business which means products move more quickly off the shelves. You’ll never run into an issue where a bottle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar has been on the shelf for very long.

While olive oil can be stored for a period of time, it’s recommended that all olive oils be used up within 24 months if sealed, and if opened that they be used more quickly to avoid having your oil go bad.

Wondering how to choose a high-quality olive oil? Check out our blog here https://dolivotastingbar.com/how-to-choose-a-high-quality-olive-oil/

May 2, 2022

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

Mother’s Day is fast approaching, and we all know that mom is the true hero in most families. Whether you’re 50 or 15 the chances that mom has done something over-the-top special for you in the last year. As we gear up to celebrate moms, grandmas, aunts, and any other extra special woman in our lives, here is a list of great ideas from D’Olivo to make her day.

Le Creuset Bread Oven

We cannot get enough of these beautiful pieces of art from one of our favorite companies. Le Creuset is well-known for their craftsmanship and the bread oven is another must have cooking item for mom.

The oven is made from their legendary cast iron making it great for heat distribution. The domed lid traps and circulates steam for maximum rise and the ultimate in flavor. This dish is perfect for breads, sweet or savory baked goods, and the base can be used as a skillet or roaster. A true multipurpose tool that mom is sure to love!

Club D’Olivo Membership

If your mom loves to spend time in the kitchen making all kinds of delicious meals then help her step up her game with a membership to our olive oil and vinegar club. Choose from three great options, and ensure that mom gets to select her favorite olive oil and/or vinegars every quarter. She’ll get four allotments each year and the best part is she gets to choose her own! This is a great gift that shows how much you care while giving mom the flexibility to experiement with new options every time.

Bubbles

There’s no better way to help mom relax than with a nice glass of bubbles. Take over something from our extensive collection and let her kick up her feet while you serve her brunch, lunch, or dinner (or all three). Pair it up with some of our wine chocolates, or a selection of cheeses from our in-store cases.

Olive Wood Items

While popular for producing olives for both olive oil and stuffed gordal olives, olive wood is also a used to produce some of the most beautiful handcrafted items in the world. Olive wood, both rich in color and durable can be used in various formats. We’re proud to carry a high-quality line of bowls, spoons, and other kitchen items. Help upgrade the items in your mom’s kitchen with something of this quality – she’ll be thankful you did.

Wusthof Knives

This is one of the best things to upgrade in anyone’s kitchen. Knives are an essential part of preparing any meal and having a good knife or a set of knives can make all the difference. Wusthof offers some of the highest quality knives on the market and you’ll be a winner in mom’s eyes if you pick her up one of the beauties to say “I love you.”

No matter what you’re planning for mom’s special day, any of these items is a perfect way to show your appreciation. Stop in to shop these items or anything else from our selection Monday-Thursday from 10 AM to 6 PM, Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 6:30 PM, and Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM.

February 23, 2022

What People Want to Know About Olive Oil

Olive oil is a popular cooking fat these days, and with all popular topics it can be hard to get the basic – need to know facts. We’re breaking down the most popular questions that we hear from people and answering them in a simple way. It’s important that information about this oil is available for users and easy to digest (no pun intended).

Is Olive Oil Healthy?

There may still be some who are trying to argue against olive oil, but that’s getting more difficult to do as more studies become available that showcase it as one of the healthiest fats available on the market. A staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil is well documented to be high in antioxidants which can aid in heart health, it’s high in monosaturated fats and can help reduce inflammation, as well as serve a great weight loss aid.

We always encourage you to do your own research, but here is a great article from Olive Oil Times that breaks down the numerous health benefits.

Is All Olive Oil the Same?

While it can be tempting to think that the $5 olive oil from the grocery store is the same as the $20 bottle of extra virgin olive oil you purchase from a specialty retailer, the honest truth is that not all olive oil is created equal.

Starting with the very basics, extra virgin olive oil is going to be the best olive oil to purchase. In order to bear the “extra virgin” designation on the label, the olive oil must be from the first, cold-pressing of the olives. Cold pressing is a method of extracting the oil without using heat or chemicals, ensuring that all the nutritional benefits are maintained in the oil.

Oil that has another label like light or refined are not going to give you the same great health benefits or as rich of a flavor profile. Don’t miss out on all that this great oil has to offer and upgrade your choice – specialty retailers are a great option. Most are locally owned and operated so in addition to getting a delicious oil, you’re also supporting local business.

What Should I Look for When Purchasing Olive Oil?

Read the Label – The first thing to check is the type of oil you’re purchasing and make sure that the label reads extra-virgin. Next, olive oil can go rancid if exposed to light or heat. Make sure the bottle the oil is in is dark in color to protect from light and that it’s not being stored on a shelf in direct sunlight.

Taste the Oil – if it’s an option we suggest trying the olive oil. This is the only real way to make sure it hasn’t gone rancid and while it won’t hurt you to eat a rancid oil, it will definitely give an off flavor to any of the dishes that you’re making. Olive oil should have a fresh, green taste like cut grass and have a peppery after taste.

Yet another reason to purchase from a specialty retailer is that they’re well-versed in proper storage of olive oil and also sell through their product more quickly ensuring that you’re getting a good oil. In addition, they’re likely to have open bottles and let you sample from them to make sure you’re getting the right product for your cooking or baking needs.

How Can I Use My Olive Oil?

Olive Oil is an extremely versatile oil and can be used in everything from deep frying to drizzled on top of a salad. Given the high smoke point of high-quality olive oils, you really can use it everywhere.

Our favorite ways to use it include marinating meat or vegetables in a mixture of oils and paired balsamic vinegars to really get the flavor deep into what you’re cooking. It can also be brushed or drizzled onto anything you’re grilling outside. Pairing an olive oil with a delicious balsamic vinegar and using them in combination as a salad dressing is another great option. If you aren’t much for cooking, and prefer to bake then swap out olive oil for butter or another oil to give your dish a rich flavor profile and also make it a little healthier. For specific recipes check out our website here – https://dolivotastingbar.com/recipe/

December 21, 2020

D’Olivo Gift Guide 2020

If you’re like us, you’re ready to put 2020 in the rearview mirror. It’s been a challenging year for many, and we are grateful for the continued support of our customers both near and far. They’ve shopped our products both online and in-person and we are looking forward to a happy and bright 2021 with all of you.

As we gear up for the holiday season, we’ve put together our 2020 gift guide, featuring just a few of our amazing products. There’s something for everyone at D’Olivo and we hope you’ll find the perfect item for your friends, family, employees, and corporate partners.

Holiday Variety Packs

We’ve curated some of our favorite olive oil and balsamic vinegar pairings into a few variety packs. Each pack features six 60ml bottles. We’ve got one for those who love the spicier side of things, and one for those with a sweet tooth. If you don’t see the pack you want, choose your own. These packs make a great gift for anyone looking to dive into the world of olive oil and vinegar.

Cookbooks

It’s hard to go wrong with a good cookbook for the chef in your life and we’ve got some great ones. From knowing what to pair with your foods, to a guide for tea lovers you’re sure to find one that will be loved and appreciate in the kitchen.

Food Items

At D’Olivo we’re proud to stock a variety of food items for our customers. From Olo gluten-free chickpea pasta to locally produced cheeses from Walla Walla Cheese Company you’ll be sure to find something delicious to serve guests this holiday season. Come and shop our selection of cheeses, pastas, pasta sauces, soup mixes, and more.

Wusthof Knives

We can’t say enough about the quality of Wusthof knives. They’re some of the best in the industry and we’ve got a couple of great deals going for the holiday season. Get the two-piece carving set for $135.95 or a set of 8 steak knives for $79.95. Available through 1/31/21 while supplies last.

Bakeware

From utensils for pie baking like pie weights and pastry wheel cutters to ceramic bowls from Mason & Cash we’ve got everything the baker in your life might need. We also offer a wide selection of Le Creuset bakeware and cast iron cookware.

Club D’Olivo Membership

The ultimate gift for the chef in your life, this year-long membership won’t disappoint. Club D’Olivo members receive quarterly shipments of our ultra-premium olive oils and balsamic vinegars. The best part of this club is that members get to select their own oils and vinegars to make it even more personalized.

Champagne and Bubbles

Celebrate the holiday and ring in the New Year with a delicious cava, sparkling wine, or champagne. We’ve got the widest selection of bubbles and champagnes in Walla Walla so come in and shop our selection.

Gift Certificates

These are the ultimate if you know there’s a chef or baker who would love to shop our selection of products. Give us a call or visit the store today to pick one up.

Whatever you’re shopping needs are this season we’d love to help you find the perfect gift. Our downtown Walla Walla location is open Monday-Saturday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

If you’re looking for gift wrapping we also offer the wrapping of custom gift baskets – perfect for corporate or private gifting.

September 22, 2020

The Difference Between Fused and Infused Olive Oil

If you’ve visited our store in person or online you’ve likely noticed that we carry a wide selection of flavored olive oils. While all of these flavors are delicious and pack a big punch for any recipe, or when paired with our extensive selection of balsamic vinegars, there’s likely a smaller difference you might not have noticed.

Each of these flavors are added to the olive oil in a specific process of either infusion or fusion. In case you haven’t had the chance to have our staff walk you through a tasting and explain the difference, this blog will give you the quick run-down on the difference.

Fused Olive Oil

Fused olive oils, more commonly called agrumato oils are those where the flavor is extracted directly from the fruit at the same time as the olive oil is pressed. This method keeps the essential oils and flavors of the fruit or plant suspended in the oil, while the pulp, stems, seeds, water and rinds are discarded with the olive pomace or olive pulp.

Infused Olive Oil

In contrast to this, is the process of infusing olive oil. In this process the flavor is added to the olive oil after it’s already been made. All of our infused olive oils start with ultra premium extra virgin olive oils and are blended in small batches with 100% natural, organic essential oils of the plant or fruit.

Why Aren’t Flavored Olive Oils Labeled Extra Virgin

Because of the strict standards outlined for an oil to be classified as extra virgin, any time a flavor has been added to the oil the USDA says that it can no longer be classified as extra virgin and instead must simply be labeled as olive oil. However, at D’Olivo all of our flavored olive oils begin with a certified ultra premium extra virgin olive oil base which ensures that the same health benefits exist even in our fused and infused flavored lineup.

In addition, only those plant essences that we want to have added to the oil are added, meaning that no artificial colors or sweeteners are ever added. This ensures we maintain one of the healthiest and purest oils on the market.

How Can I Try These Olive Oils

We are always happy to welcome customers new and old into the store and offer every guest the chance to walk through a tasting with one of our staff members. Our staff are well versed in our offerings and can help steer you in the direction of both our fused/agrumato and infused oils and vinegars. They can also help you craft pairings that will wow your taste buds.

If you’re not local to the area we have our pairing chart available online here and invite you to shop our online store here. Each oil is labeled either agrumato/fused or infused to designate the different methods used in the creation process. We’re also happy to answer any questions that customers might have and invite you to call us at 509-529-7537.

March 24, 2020March 10, 2020

Five Tasty Manzanilla Olive Recipes

It’s true that we might be a little biased, but these tasty little olives play a major role in our business. Manzanilla olives are actually the most popular olive on the market today. These plump, green olives are used as both table olives (typically stuffed) and they’re also the foundation of olive oils and olive oil based products.

These olives are packed with health benefits that make them not just delicious, but good for you. We’ve covered the ins and outs of these olives already in this article , but because we’re such a fan we’re highlighting some new fun recipes that you can use them in.

Olive Tapenade

Ingredients

2 Tbsp Olive Oil
1 Jar Delizia Pitted Queen Olives
Parsley
Fresh Garlic
Red Pepper Flakes
1 french baguette

Directions

Add all ingredients into a food processor remembering to chop the garlic first. Pulse everything in the food processor until it has a slightly chunky consistency, but not totally pureed. Slice the baguette and toast it in the oven. Spoon the tapenade onto the toasted bread and serve.

Olive Spaghetti Sauce

Ingredients

1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Onion, finely chopped
2 gloves fresh garlic, finely chopped
1 can chopped tomatoes
½ cup Delizia stuffed olives of your choice
1 tsp brown sugar

Directions

Heat olive oil in a sauce pan on the stove. Add onion and garlic and cook until soft (approx. 5 minutes). Add tomatoes and olives and season as desired with black pepper, sea salt, and brown sugar. Bring ingredients to a boil and then let simmer until the sauce begins to thicken. Add in your favorite pasta and serve.

Olive Hummus

Ingredients

1 can garbanzo beans
1/3 cup Delizia stuffed olives of your choice
¼ cup lemon juice
2 gloves garlic, minced
3 Tablespoons UP Olive Oil
2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil
1 ½ tsp chopped fresh parsley
Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions

Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Serve with your favorite pita chips or vegetables.

Fried Stuffed Olives

Ingredients

1 jar Delizia stuffed olives of your choice
½ cup flour
1 cup fine bread crumbs
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Combine flour and bread crumbs in a bag or bowl. Beat the eggs to create and egg wash. Remove the stuffed olives from the jar and rinse to remove excess salt and then pat them dry. Dip the olives in the egg wash and then the breading mixture. Repeat this 2-3 times to get a thick coat. Heat the olive oil in a pan. Once the olive oil is hot enough for frying add the breaded olives to the pan and fry until the olives are a nice golden brown. Serve while warm.

Tuscan Olive Chicken

Recipe From Emily Bites

Ingredients
4 (6 oz each) raw boneless, skinless chicken breasts or cutlets
¾ teaspoon dried basil
¾ teaspoon dried oregano
¾ teaspoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided
¾ teaspoon minced garlic
¾ cup large pitted black olives
½ cup green stuffed olives
3 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon drained capers
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon mustard

Directions
1. Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and set aside.
2. Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and if necessary, pound with a meat mallet to ensure an even thickness. Combine the basil, oregano, and rosemary in a small dish and then sprinkle onto both sides of each chicken breast, pressing the herbs down to ensure they stick to the breasts.
3. Drizzle 2 teaspoons of the olive oil into a large skillet or saute pan and bring over med-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and saute for a minute. Add the chicken breasts in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side to lightly brown the outside of the chicken.
4. Transfer the chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet and cover them with another sheet of aluminum foil. Place the covered sheet pan in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the aluminum foil cover and continue baking uncovered for another 5-10 minutes (depending on the thickness of your breasts) until the chicken is cooked through.
5. While the chicken is baking, place the black olives, green olives, garlic cloves, capers, lemon juice, mustard, and remaining tablespoon of olive oil into a food processor and turn it on or pulse a few times until the ingredients are finely chopped and well combined. When the chicken is finished, top each breast with ¼ cup of olive tapenade and serve.

February 11, 2020

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

It’s fast approaching and that means if you haven’t already thought of a special gift for your loved one then it’s time to get out and shop. Lucky for you, we’ve got this quick hitting gift guide on great items to purchase for that special someone. Already ready with your gifts, then we’re here to get you set for that wonderful meal you’re planning to make.

Champagne and Bubbles

This type of beverage is a perfect companion for dinner or dessert. It can also be great way to enhance the taste of any chocolates or strawberries that you might buy. We’ve got the best selection of champagnes and bubbles in Walla Walla so come in to the store and shop our selection.

Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars

If you’re looking to make a delicious meal we’ve got tons of wonderful recipes for you to choose from here – including a wonderful Sous Vide Tri-Tip or a Teriyaki Salmon. Whatever you’re hoping to make from breakfasts to dinners we’ve got inspiration for you.

Brix Chocolates

Just in case you’ve picked up a good bottle of wine to share or gift to someone, we have Brix Chocolate bars for you to add in to the bag. These high-quality dark chocolates are a great option for wine pairing.

Valentine’s Gift Sets

Not sure what to add into a fun basket then come in and see us. We’ve got wonderful gift sets just for Valentine’s day that are beautifully wrapped and packed with many of our great products.

Le Creuset

We can’t make a list without including these wonderful products. They are sure to put a smile on the face of anyone who loves to cook or bake. From Dutch ovens and non-stick skillets, to mixing bowls and ramekins there’s nothing you won’t love.

Caramel Sauce

Maybe you’ve got the perfect ice cream to enjoy at the end of a meal, and if you don’t already then you should buy some just so you can top it with one of our caramel sauces. There’s a variety of flavors to choose from and all of them are delicious – if you don’t believe us you can sample them in store so why wait.

Alexanders Artisan Chocolates

Do you love chocolates or French macaroons? We’ve got the perfect treat for you with these tasty French chocolates and hand-crafted macaroons.

Walla Walla Cheese Company

Sourcing and selling products from local vendors is one of our favorite things to do. Visit us in store and delicious cheeses to pair with your wines or to serve with your meal.

Stasher Bags

We’ve been highlighting this product online but it really is one of our favorites. These reusable silicone bags are perfect for lunches, picnics or storing leftover food in your fridge. They come in a variety of sizes and will not only help you save money on plastic bags but they’re good for the environment.

We’ve listed some of our favorite products, but the options are nearly endless. We’ve got bakeware, cookware, knives and more to stock the kitchen of your loved one.

We also have wonderfully sourced pastas, premixed soups, and other great items to help inspire your cooking or just make meal time a little easier on those busy days. Not in Walla Walla? Shop our selection of store products and have them shipped directly to you.

December 6, 2019

Top 5 Gifts for the Foodie in Your Life

The holidays are quickly approaching, and that means it’s once again time to start planning your gifts. Whether it be for family or friends, if you’re like us, there’s a great joy in shopping for and picking out something that you think will be the perfect fit. Bonus if you know it will generate a real and genuine smile too.

In case you’ve got a foodie on your list this year, we’ve put together a quick hitting list of things that are sure to generate enthusiasm for them every time they step into the kitchen.

1. Club D’Olivo Membership

This is the gift that keeps on giving for the entire year. Club D’Olivo offers members 4 quarterly shipments of their personal selection of our ultra-premium olive oils and balsamic vinegars, plus a free gift hand selected by Roni. There are three levels to choose from in the club, and as an added bonus you receive 10% off anything else in the store when you pick up your shipments. If you’re gifting from out of town or even out of state don’t worry. We offer shipping each quarter for a small additional fee.

2. Le Creuset

As one of the most recognized culinary brands in the world this brand has been making waves in the industry for over 90 years. The cookware they offer isn’t just stylish, it’s also of the highest quality. It’s not just their cookware either as they offer a wide range of great accessories for your kitchen as well. We hold this brand near and dear at D’Olivo and are proud to stock it year round.

3. Olive Oil Skincare Company

A brief trip outside the kitchen, but that’s simply because the benefits of olive oil aren’t just limited to the kitchen. From skincare to haircare, the Olive Oil Skincare Company provides a great line of natural beauty products. From soaps to shampoos and body wash, you’ll find a great selection of items in stock at D’Olivo.

4. Wusthof Knives

A family owned business for seven generations, Wusthof was founded over 200 years ago in Solingen, Germany and still today every blade is crafted in this city. Dedicated to excellence, these beautiful knives are top of the line and are sure to add a special touch to your culinary endeavors. If you’ve got a chef in the family a high quality knife can be a game-changer in the kitchen so consider one of these for that special someone.

5. Denissimo Balsamic Vinegar

Now finally back in stock, this delicious vinegar is aged 25 years and is sure to add a special touch to your dishes. If you’ve got a foodie in the family who loves to make dishes extra special then this might just be the perfect gift. The time spent aging the balsamic gives it a unique flavor that we’re positive will be a huge hit.

Of course there are an endless number of ways you can help those foodies you love add to their kitchen essentials, but these five items are some of our most popular items. Swing into our store in downtown Walla Walla and browser our wide selection. We’re confident you’ll find just what you’re looking for!

October 14, 2019October 14, 2019

Top 5 Recipes for Cooking With Olive Oil This Fall

The weather is changing and that means it is time to shake up your at home menu! Lots of people have put away the summer essentials like patio tables and are spending less time out at the BBQ in the evenings. That’s no reason to be sad though, because with fall come some of the most wonderful, hearty dishes that herald in the holidays. As a celebration of one of our most favorite times of year we decided to compile a list of fall favorites that will delight your family or dinner party guests as you all gather around the table. Check out these fun dishes and then be sure to stock up on all the ingredients by stopping by our store or shopping online.

Bread

Every year when fall gets started it’s a cue to start baking. Whether it’s cookies, pies, or bread it just feels better when the oven is turned on. When it comes to bread, olive oil isn’t just there for creating a dipping sauce. You can actually use it in the recipe to create delicious olive oil bread that pairs well with pasta dishes of all kinds.

Pizza Sauce

If you’re like us then you’ve likely got the last of your garden fresh vegetables off the vine in the last couple of weeks. Don’t let those tomatoes go to waste and instead use them to create a delicious homemade pizza sauce.

Soups

Soups are another favorite for this time of year. They’re great if you’re suffering from an early fall cold or if you’re just looking for a great way to use up the rest of those turkey leftovers.

Sous Vide Tuscan Herb & Neopolitan Tri-Tip

Most people don’t mind a good steak in the summer, but it’s easy to forget about some of these heartier meats when summer often leads us to dishes heavy with fish, chicken, and fresh vegetables. This recipe is a classic and is one that we’re sure you’ll enjoy too.

Cakes

Cakes can be the perfect end to a delicious meal and they’re also great for taking along to your host/hostess if you’re invited to a dinner party. This recipe is sure to be a winner for all your guests.

May 23, 2019May 9, 2019

Manzanilla Olives – Facts, Health Benefits & Tasty Recipes

While it’s all too easy to group olives into two distinct categories – black or white – most are surprised to learn that there are actually hundreds of varieties grown throughout the world. Similar to wine grapes, certain types of olives grow better in different climates, leading to a wide range of unique flavors and textures that can produce mouthwatering culinary possibilities.

Since covering even the most popular types of olives far exceeds the scope of this article, today, we’re going to be focusing on one variety in particular – Manzanilla olives.

What Are Manzanilla Olives?

Believe it or not, these tasty little morsels are actually the most common type of green olive found in supermarkets today. If you’ve ever purchased a jar of green olives packed into a glass jar with brine, chances are, you’ve sampled these olives before. Originating from Sevilla, Spain, Manzanilla olives have taken the world by storm, commonly found in everything from roasted chicken and Mediterranean style dishes to the iconic dirty martini.

Not only are Manzanilla olives the most popular type of green olive you’ll find, but they’re actually the most popular type of olive in the world. Largely due in part to its resilience and high yield, the ever increasing demand for Manzanilla olives has led them to also be grown in the sunny state of California.

Characterized by their light green appearance, Manzanilla olives are commonly pitted and stuffed with pimento (the classic red filling), garlic paste, or even almonds depending on where you get them from. These plump, meaty olives have a firm texture and diverse flavor profile that will take your taste buds through notes of briny deliciousness before evolving into something slightly bitter with a touch of nutty smokiness.

Because they can be so widely produced, Manzanilla olives serve as a great source for olive oil in addition to their whole fruit purposes. When not being used for olive oil, Manzanilla olives undergo an extensive process that prepares them for packaging.

Contrary to popular belief, you won’t have a pleasant experience if you just pluck an olive from its tree and bite into it. Instead, you’ll be greeted with a face-twisting bitterness as a result of the oleuropein content that gets removed during the curing process.

Once the Manzanilla olives have been deemed ripe enough to pick, the farmer will start by washing them off in a bath drawn with water and brine to preserve the freshness and remove any debris from the exterior.

After they’ve been thoroughly rinsed, they will again be submerged in a sea salt brine (varies depending on the producing company) for as long as three weeks to fully remove the naturally bitter taste and produce the succulent olives we’ve come to love.

From here, they’re then pitted, stuffed, and packaged in glass jars and filled with brine or olive oil for preservation until it’s time to enjoy them!

Health Benefits of Manzanilla Olives

Manzanilla olives are packed with powerful nutrients that offer several health benefits when incorporated as a staple in your diet.

1. High In Antioxidants

One of the most well-documented benefits of olive oil is their rich antioxidant profile which has been found to help lower the risk of developing a number of diseases. Vitamin E is one of the most important antioxidants found in olive oil, helping to protect your body against viruses and free radical damage, which has been largely associated with cancers and even heart disease.

On top of having a high concentration of Vitamin E, studies have also shown that consuming olives can significantly increase glutathione levels in the blood, one of the body’s most powerful antioxidants.

2. Abundance of Healthy Fats

As you may have already assumed, olive oil from Manzanilla olives is largely comprised of monounsaturated fats. Known as oleic acid, monounsaturated fats are believed to help fight chronic inflammation in the body.

The oil contained within Manzanilla olives is also believed to help reduce blood pressure, further contributing to heart health. In addition, the fat content of Manzanilla olives is packed with omega-3’s and 6’s, both of which are important for keeping your heart health in check.

3. Heart Health & Stroke Prevention

Scientists have long been interested in the Mediterranean diet due to the low number of heart disease cases in the region. After extensive research, scientists found that a diet rich in olive oil helps protect the body against heart disease in a variety of different ways (as covered above).

Similarly, scientists have also performed numerous studies on the link between strokes and olive oil consumption. Their research found that monounsaturated fat from olives is one of the leading factors in reducing the risk of stroke.

Manzanilla Olive Recipes

Bacon Olive Wraps

This recipe is the perfect choice when looking to impress guests with a simple yet tasty appetizer involving Manzanilla olives.

Ingredients: Bacon, Manzanilla olives, white bread

Cooking:
1. Cut the crust from the white bread and slice each piece into 3 equal strips.
2. Roll it around the olive, followed by half a strip of bacon before securing with a toothpick.
3. Place on a baking sheet and broil for about 5 minutes, making sure the bacon is crispy all around.

Chopped Salad

When you’re in the mood for a stunningly flavorful salad that can take on whatever form you please, the Manzanilla olive chopped salad never fails.

Ingredients: For this recipe, the only ingredients you need are those necessary to create your favorite salad.

Cooking: Whether that be an extravagant blue cheese salad or a simple spring mix with some grilled chicken, sprinkling in a few stuffed olives that have been chopped up can instantly elevate any salad to the next level of delicious.

Chicken Pesto & Pasta

Manzanilla olives work exceptionally well with pesto dishes, making chicken pesto the perfect candidate for these tasty little morsels.

Ingredients: For this recipe, you can use any chicken pesto recipe you find and simply add an extra step while making the sauce.

Cooking: As the pesto ingredients are cooking down in a large pot (commonly including garlic, parsley, olive oil, and rep pepper), sprinkle in a few Manzanilla olives and allow them to meld with the flavors for 3-4 minutes and wallah!