Black olives

Black olives are the fully ripe fruits of the European olive tree, their dark color resulting from complete ripeness at harvest. Compared to green olives, they have a milder, less bitter flavor and a higher fat content. They are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants. In the kitchen, they are used as part of antipasti, in salads, on pizza, or mixed into pasta dishes. They are also excellent in tapas, marinated in oil with herbs, or stuffed with peppers or anchovies. They are a staple of Mediterranean cuisine and pair beautifully with cheese, bread, and red wine.