Italian Olive Salad is a delicious and healthy dish that is made from a variety of ingredients, including olives, vegetables, and pickled onions. This dish originates in the Mediterranean region, where olive trees are abundant, but you will also find that it's popular in the French Quarter for Mardi Gras as well.
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The salad can be served in many different ways, from sandwiches to a topping on proteins this salad is a great addition to any meal. The best part about this salad is its versatility, as it can be easily customized according to your preference.
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Olive Salad
- First and foremost, it's delicious. The combination of olives and vegetables provides a unique flavor that leaves your taste buds wanting more.
- This homemade olive salad is not only a great dip for your favorite foods, but it also works well as a spread for muffuletta sandwiches or even on lettuce wraps.
- And, it's great to make ahead so that you can spend less time in the kitchen. it also has a long shelf life in the fridge.
- All of these ingredients for this olive tapenade are easy to find at your local grocery store, so you don't have to worry about making stops at specialty stores.
I don't know about you, but I love the salty and tangy taste of olives in my salads. They add such a depth of flavor and texture that can't be replicated with any other ingredient. Not to mention, olives are a great source of healthy fats and antioxidants.
Ingredients you'll need
Note: This is an overview of the ingredients. You'll find the full measurements and instructions in the recipe card (printable) at the bottom of the page.
- Pimento stuffed green olives - Add a nice pop of color and flavor to the salad.
- Kalamata olives pitted - These are the classic Greek black olives with a slightly bitter taste.
- Italian giardiniera - This blend of pickled vegetables will add a nice and tangy flavor to your salad.
- Capers - These little salty and tangy buds are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.
- Pickled onions - These pickled onions add a nice sharpness and crunch to the salad.
- Garlic clove - Minced garlic is used to add a pop of flavor and depth.
- Dried oregano - A classic Mediterranean herb that adds a savory and earthy flavor to the salad.
- Dry parsley - Not only does parsley add a pop of color, but it also adds a fresh and herby flavor to the salad.
- Olive oil - The base of the dressing, adds depth and richness to the overall flavor. Try using extra virgin olive oil.
Before you begin: essential tools
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- Food Processor
- Mason Jar or similar container with a tightly fitting lid
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Adaptable recipe – make it your own!
- Love spicy foods? Add some pickled peppers, such as jalapenos or pepperoncini peppers, for a little kick of heat.
- For a bright flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice to your salad. It adds a nice tanginess and freshness to the salad.
- Dried basil is another way to add a savory and herbaceous flavor to the salad.
- Feel free to add in additional olives or pickled vegetables like these Quick Pickled Carrots to suit your taste preferences.
- Black pepper is a great way to add a bit of heat and spice to the salad.
Step by step: instructions
Note: This is an overview of the instructions. The full recipe is in the recipe card below.
- Add all the ingredients to the food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped.
- Pour the ingredients from the food processor into a mason jar or similar container with a tightly fitting lid.
My notes
- This salad is best served chilled, so make sure to refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before enjoying.
- This salad is perfect for meal prep as it can be stored in the fridge, and then added to your favorite sandwiches.
- I recommend only adding pickled ingredients to this salad. If you add fresh ingredients such as feta cheese, you will need to eat it within 3-4 days.
- For a new idea, add this olive spread to a charcuterie board alongside bread, fresh herbs, artichoke hearts, cheeses, and jam.
How to store leftovers
Store Italian olive salad in the fridge for up to two months. However, it's important to remember that you will need to use a clean spoon every time you remove some salad from the jar so that it doesn't spoil.
Your questions answered: FAQs
Italian giardiniera is a blend of pickled vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, celery, and peppers that are typically used in Italian cuisine. It adds a tangy flavor to dishes.
No, you can also chop the ingredients by hand if you prefer. Just make sure they are finely chopped. However, I don't recommend using a blender as it will chop the salad too small.
Yes, you can freeze olive salad in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before using and shake or stir well before serving.
Make ahead
This salad is best when it's had time for the flavors to meld together. That means that it's great made ahead. I like to make it 24 hours in advance so that the flavors have to marry together.
Perfect pairings: what to serve with
- There are plenty of ways to use this salad other than Muffaletta sandwiches. Stir through cooked pasta or serve as part of an antipasto platter or charcuterie board.
- Serve it as a dip with crackers, fresh vegetables, pita chips or your homemade Doritos.
- Dot it over your favorite cheese dips like this Whipped Ricotta or Baked Feta Dip. Or use it and make Spicy Deviled Eggs with a twist.
- I like serving it with all sorts of bread like Pita Bread, Unleavened Bread, Overnight Focaccia or Simit.
Or toss it with your favorite salad, here are some ideas.
You might also enjoy
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a hearty and delicious salad that is packed with Mediterranean flavors and ingredients.
- This Beet and Carrot Salad is another great way to enjoy flavorful vegetables in a salad. It's tangy, crunchy, and full of flavor.
- White Bean Salad is another great recipe to try if you're looking for a healthy and protein-packed salad option. It's perfect for meal prep or as a light lunch option.
- This Black Bean and Chickpea Salad is a delicious and vibrant salad that is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. It's also vegan and gluten-free!
- Baba Ganoush is a wonderful authentic recipe for a creamy roasted eggplant dip. Learn how to get that smoky flavor and creamy texture better than your favorite restaurant.
You can get a jar of olive salad at the store, but seriously you can throw this together in minutes, and it’s worth making from scratch.
Italian Olive Salad
Ingredients
- ½ cup pimento stuffed green olives
- ⅓ cup Kalamata olives pitted
- ⅓ cup Italian giardiniera
- 3 Tablespoons capers
- 4 small pickled onions
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dry parsley
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Place all the ingredients in your food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped.
- Place in a jar with fitted lid. Use a clean spoon when taking from the jar to prevent it from spoiling.
Notes
Nutrition
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Teresa
Looks delicious! Thanks for the note on how long it will keep. That was a question I had immediately upon seeing this post but you answered it right away.