Essential Everyday · 15 g
Essential Everyday Pitted Ripe Olives
What it is
These are ripe olives that have been pitted, meaning the hard pit has been removed. They are typically cured to mellow their flavor and are often packed in brine or water. The "medium" size refers to the diameter of the olives. This convenience makes them ready to use in various dishes without any preparation.
How people cook with it
Pitted ripe olives are a versatile ingredient, adding a savory, briny flavor to many meals. They are excellent for both cooking and as a simple topping.
- Topping for pizzas
- Ingredient in salads
- Added to pasta sauces
- Garnish for appetizers
To use, simply drain the olives from their packing liquid. They can be added directly to recipes as they are already prepared. For dishes like pasta sauces or casseroles, stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to warm through. In salads, they provide a burst of flavor and a pleasant texture. They are also commonly used as a topping for homemade pizzas or as a component of antipasto platters.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike green olives, ripe olives have a milder, more buttery flavor and a softer texture. Pitting them further enhances their ease of use, distinguishing them from olives that still contain their pits, which require manual removal before consumption.
Who it is for
Home cooks who enjoy adding a savory element to their meals will find these olives useful.
How to keep the rest
After opening, store any unused olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best to keep them submerged in their original brine or a fresh brine solution to maintain their moisture and flavor. Consume within a week for optimal freshness.