25 Kalamata Olive Recipes You’ll Love

Savor Mediterranean cuisine’s rich and distinct flavors with these Kalamata olive recipes!

These small, dark purple gems hail from the sun-kissed shores of Greece. They have a rich, fruity, and briny taste. Kalamata olives bring unique depth to any dish they grace.

There are so many mouthwatering ways to showcase the flavors of Kalamata olives. From fresh salads to hearty pasta and even classic comfort food, you’ll find something to love.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey!

What Are Kalamata Olives?

Kalamata olives are a type of black olive named after the city of Kalamata in Greece. They’re easily recognizable because they’re bigger than most other olives.

In terms of black olives vs. Kalamata olives, the key difference is their color. Kalamata are usually more purple than black. And like Champagne, you can only call an olive Kalamata if it’s from that specific region.

They have a rich, fruity flavor that’s a bit salty, adding to their taste. People often eat them alone, in salads, or in various dishes. They’re also a crucial part of the Mediterranean diet, which is considered very healthy.

How Kalamata Olives Are Made

Kalamata olives are handpicked when ripe. But these fresh olives are very bitter, so they need to be cured to make them edible.

Here’s a quick overview of the process:

• The olives are cured in a brine solution to remove bitterness. 

• They’re then fermented in a high-acidity vinegar solution to develop flavor.

• The olives are stored in a jar and infused with herbs to elevate the flavors even more. 

• Finally, the olives are packaged for sale.

Choosing the Best Kalamata Olives

If you’re purchasing Kalamata olives for a recipe, look out for the following qualities:

• Shape – They should be shaped like an elongated oval.

• Origins – They originated from the south of Greece, specifically the town of Kalamata.

• Texture – They should have a solid and not soft texture.

• Color – It should be deep purple, almost black.

• Additives – They don’t contain extra preservatives.

• Storage – They’re stored in a clear brine.

How to Pit a Kalamata Olive

You can pit Kalamata olives easily.

1. Start with an olive at room temperature. 
2. Put the whole olive on a chopping board. 
3. Press it down using the flat side of a large knife.

The olive will crack open, making it simple to remove and throw away the pit. Easy-peasy!

Kalamata Olive Recipes

1. Olive Pizza with Red Onions

This pizza showcases Kalamata olives’ punchy flavor. Each slice is a culinary art. It’s topped with a golden blanket of melted mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce. 

The bold, salty bite of the olives stands out against the sweet caramelized red onions.

This Mediterranean-inspired pizza promises to bring a delectable twist to your traditional pizza night.

2. Mushroom Beef Stew with Kalamata Olives 

This hearty stew is great when you need a pick-me-up on a chilly day! It’s a slow-simmered fusion of tender beef chunks, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant Kalamata olives. 

The beef, cooked until it falls apart, mingles with the woodsy mushrooms for a deep flavor backdrop. The olives introduce an unexpected element of richness and fruitiness.

With every spoonful, you’ll appreciate the aromatic medley of seasonings and tomato sauce. It really ties the dish together. 

3. Mediterranean Pasta

This Mediterranean pasta is a feast of flavors and colors. It’s a vibrant and healthful dish. It’ll transport you to sunny seaside towns with every forkful. 

The pasta is cooked al dente. It’s tossed with sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and artichoke hearts. This dish boasts a refreshing and deeply satisfying flavor profile. 

It’s tossed with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkled with crumbled feta, and drizzled with lemon juice. This pasta dish is a true celebration of Mediterranean cuisine.

4. Chicken with Olives

Succulent chicken thighs are the centerpiece of this dish, marinated in citrus and rich seasonings. The Kalamata olives are the perfect accompaniment with their rich, smoky, and fruity notes. 

This chicken with olives recipe delivers a comforting, Mediterranean-inspired dining experience.

5. Ina Garten Greek Salad

Embrace the simple elegance of Greek cuisine with this classic salad recipe from Ina Garten. It has juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumber slices, crisp bell peppers, and salty Kalamata olives. It’s tossed in a tangy, aromatic vinaigrette that ties all the flavors.

This salad is a refreshing, wholesome, and flavorful meal showcasing Greek cuisine’s heart.

6. Three Olive Tapenade

This three-olive tapenade is a piquant blend of green, black, and Kalamata olives. Each type of olive brings its unique flavor and texture.

The Kalamatas are rich and fruity, the black olives are salty, and the green olives are bright. This tapenade is a taste sensation mixed with capers, lemon juice, and herbs. 

Serve it on a slice of toasted baguette or a cracker, and savor the bold flavors.

7. Slow-Braised Lamb Ragu

The rich, gamey flavor of slow-cooked lamb is beautifully accentuated by Kalamata olives in this dish.

A medley of tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs enhances it. The ragu’s rich taste and Mediterranean warmth come alive when served with al dente pasta.

It’s the ultimate show-stopping dish to bring warmth to your dinner table!

8. Kalamata Olive Bread

Immerse yourself in the aroma of freshly baked bread with a Mediterranean twist. It features Kalamata olives’ deep, salty flavor embedded in a soft yet chewy bread. The olives are scattered throughout the dough, creating delightful pockets of flavor in every slice. 

It’s baked to golden-brown perfection, offering a slightly crispy exterior that encloses a fluffy, light interior.

9. Mediterranean Salmon in Parchment Paper

This dish is a masterpiece of Mediterranean flavors. The salmon is infused with herbs and spices and is the heart of the dish. Its rich, flaky flesh complements the salty Kalamata olives and juicy cherry tomatoes. Baking it in parchment paper removes all the flavors and ensures the salmon stays juicy.

It’s an easy yet elegant dish that promises to impress.

10. Kalamata Olive Hummus With Artichokes

Add Kalamata olives and artichokes to hummus to take it to a new level. The creamy base is kicked up a notch with salty Kalamata olives and earthy artichoke hearts. It’s perfect for dipping your favorite veggies, pita bread, or spreading on a sandwich. 

The result is a rich, velvety hummus with a depth of flavor that store-bought versions can’t match. 

11. Kalamata Olive and Brie Bites

Looking for a simple yet elegant treat to serve for your dinner party? Kalamata olive and brie bites are just the ticket!

These bite-sized appetizers balance the creaminess of brie cheese with the salty tang of kalamata olives. The savory little morsels are a delightful mix of texture and flavor. They’re so perfect for any gathering.

12. Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta Bake

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of baked pasta cooking in your oven. And this Mediterranean chicken feta pasta bake delivers!

This dish combines tender chicken, tangy feta, and Kalamata olives. They’re all baked to perfection with tender pasta soaked in sauce with hints of spice. 

Its hearty Mediterranean flavors and comforting warmth make it a crowd-pleaser.

13. Tortilla Egg Wraps with Mushrooms and Olives

Start your day with a healthy, delicious breakfast, and try this recipe! The warm tortilla contains sautéed mushrooms, briny Kalamata olives, and scrambled eggs. 

And the best part? It’s loaded with melty cheese, making every bite genuinely decadent. Once you try this recipe, it’s guaranteed to become a breakfast staple.

14. Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

Looking for the perfect appetizer to serve when you have guests for dinner? This recipe is a must-try!

This dip features the unique flavor of Kalamata olives in a creamy, cheesy base. The decadent base features sour cream, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s perfect for dipping bread or crackers. It’ll be the star of your appetizer spread.

15. Grilled Greek Steak Bites

Are you planning a cookout to enjoy the sunny season? These grilled steak bites should be on your menu!

They’re marinated in a Greek-inspired blend of herbs and spices. The bites are perfectly grilled and served with tangy Kalamata olives, red peppers, cheese, and mushrooms. 

The olives’ briny flavor complements the juicy steak, making these bites delightful.

16. Vegetarian Greek Stuffed Peppers

Savor the true essence of the Mediterranean with these delectable vegetarian Greek stuffed peppers. 

Sweet, robust bell peppers are filled with orzo, cheese crumbles, and kalamata olives. Each bite carries an explosion of flavors and textures guaranteed to delight. 

These stuffed peppers are the perfect vegetarian indulgence.

17. Tzatziki Potato Salad With Kalamata Olives

Refresh your summer fare with tzatziki potato salad. Tender, earthy boiled potatoes are tossed in a rich, creamy Tzatziki dressing. They’re paired with Kalamata olives for a delightful balance of salty and savory.

This salad is a symphony of flavors and pairs beautifully with grilled meats.

18. Greek Grilled Cheese

Elevate your grilled cheese game with this recipe for Greek grilled cheese. It’s a fusion of classic comfort and Mediterranean magnificence. 

The warm, melty feta cheese meets the delightful tang of Kalamata olives encased in toasted bread. The fresh tomatoes, red peppers, and spinach lend a welcome freshness to this satisfying sandwich. 

Every bite of this Greek grilled cheese sandwich oozes with a fusion of flavors you’ll love.

19. Pork Medallions With Olive Caper Sauce

Indulge in a gourmet delight with these pork medallions with olive caper sauce. The succulent, pan-seared pork medallions get a bold Mediterranean lift. The dish has a vibrant white wine sauce infused with the richness of Kalamata olives and capers. 

Serve it with fresh greens and egg noodles for a filling treat.

20. Romanesco Cauliflower Pasta with Olives, Capers, and Parsley

Delight in the rustic simplicity of Romanesco cauliflower pasta. Perfectly al dente pasta is tossed with gently roasted Romanesco cauliflower. It has a nutty, delicate flavor. 

Incorporating Kalamata olives and capers infuses the dish with a salty depth. Meanwhile, a scatter of fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness. 

The elegance of this dish is accentuated with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.

21. Greek Omelette

Embark on a breakfast journey to the Grecian coast with this tantalizing Greek omelet. The fluffy, golden eggs encase crumbled feta, chickpeas, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and cucumbers.

Each forkful delivers the warm embrace of Mediterranean flavors. Garnished with a sprinkle of fresh oregano, this omelet promises a symphony of flavors and textures.

22. Chicken Puttanesca

Redefine dinner elegance with chicken puttanesca, a decadent dance of intense flavors. The juicy, seared chicken breasts are simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with Italian seasoning. The salty notes of Kalamata olives and capers highlight this dish.

The puttanesca’s tangy, spicy, and savory nuances promise a comforting and exotic meal.

23. Blackened Shrimp Salad

Celebrate the bounties of the sea and garden with the blackened shrimp salad. 

The succulent shrimp is seasoned with a smoky spice blend and is expertly seared. It’s served atop a bed of crispy greens, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and artichoke hearts.

Drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette, this salad has a beautiful balance of smoky and fresh flavors.

24. Spicy Spanish Olives

Bring a kick of spice to your appetizer game with spicy Spanish olives. 

The hand-selected Kalamata olives are marinated in fiery red pepper flakes and Spanish paprika. They tantalize the tastebuds with every bite.

This is a spirited fusion of spicy, tangy, and salty. Paired with a chilled glass of sangria, these olives are a fiery start to your festivities.

25. Dutch Oven Pot Roast with Kalamata Olive and Sun-Dried Tomato

Experience heartwarming comfort and a gourmet twist with this hearty pot roast. The tender, slow-cooked beef is bathed in a rich sauce infused with Kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes. 

This pot roast is an opulent feast that marries rustic comfort with Mediterranean sophistication.