Grocery
Manzanilla Olives Stuffed with Pimiento
What it is
These are small, green olives that have been pitted and then carefully filled with a small piece of red pimiento. The olives themselves are typically brined, giving them a salty and slightly briny flavor. The pimiento adds a subtle sweetness and a soft texture contrast to the firm olive. They are often presented as a ready-to-eat snack or appetizer.
How people cook with it
These olives are a versatile addition to many dishes and can be enjoyed on their own.
- Garnish for cocktails
- Part of an antipasto platter
- Added to salads
- Incorporated into pasta dishes
Manzanilla olives stuffed with pimiento are most commonly served as a ready-to-eat item. They are excellent on charcuterie boards, alongside cheeses, or as a simple snack. For cooking, they can be added to pasta sauces, stews, or baked dishes towards the end of the cooking time to retain their texture and flavor. They also make a classic garnish for martinis and other savory cocktails, providing a briny counterpoint to the drink.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to plain manzanilla olives, these have the added texture and mild sweetness of the pimiento filling. The pimiento softens the overall bite and introduces a visual element of red within the green olive. They are generally less intensely briny than some other olive varieties.
Who it is for
Home cooks and entertainers who enjoy preparing appetizers and adding flavorful accents to their meals.
How to keep the rest
After opening the container, it is best to store any remaining olives in their original brine or a fresh brine solution. Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out. Consume within a week or two for optimal quality.