Pitted black olives
Description
Pitted black olives have a mild, slightly earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness and delicate bitterness, as well as a smooth, matte skin and firm, meaty texture, making them an elegant addition to dishes and snacks. Nutritionally, they are a source of monounsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, iron, fiber, and polyphenols with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which promote heart health and protect cells; however, it is worth remembering the often high sodium content in the brine and rinsing them before use if you are limiting salt. In the kitchen, they pair well with salads, pizza, spreads and tapenade, pasta dishes, Mediterranean dishes, and as a decoration and ingredient in antipasti. Once opened, store in the refrigerator in the original brine or oil in an airtight container to preserve flavor and texture, and consume within 1–3 weeks depending on the packaging.