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Mediterranean Stuffed Olives

This dish features briny green olives carefully stuffed with a creamy, herb-infused cheese filling mixed with toasted nuts and lemon zest. The process involves pitting and gently filling each olive, resulting in a glossy, flavorful snack with a pleasantly firm and creamy texture. Perfect as a mindful appetizer or a calming bite during busy moments in the kitchen.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 20
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 60
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 20 pieces green olives pitted
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs parsley and basil, chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp toasted nuts almonds or pistachios, chopped

Equipment

  • Small sharp knife
  • Piping bag or small spoon
  • Plate or tray
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Gather your ingredients: pitted green olives, softened cream cheese, chopped fresh herbs, lemon zest, and toasted nuts. Prepare your piping bag or small spoon for filling.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with chopped herbs, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt if desired. Mix until smooth and well integrated. Chill the mixture for about 10 minutes to help it firm up.
  3. Carefully hold each olive and insert the small sharp knife to make a slit lengthwise, creating a gentle pocket without tearing the skin. Repeat for all olives.
  4. Fill each olive with about a teaspoon of the chilled cheese mixture using a piping bag or small spoon. Gently press the filling in to avoid bursting the olive skin.
  5. Place the stuffed olives on a plate or tray, arranging them in an even layer. Optionally, drizzle with a little olive brine or sprinkle with extra herbs for added flavor and visual appeal.
  6. Refrigerate the stuffed olives for up to 2 hours if not serving immediately. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to enhance aroma and flavor.
  7. Finish by sprinkling chopped toasted nuts or additional herbs on top for a pop of texture and color. Serve and enjoy these calming, flavorful bites.

Notes

Chilling the filling before stuffing helps it pipe neatly and maintains a creamy texture. Use a small, sharp knife for cleanly pitting the olives. Toast nuts lightly to enhance their aroma and crunch.