While Kalamata olives are a perfect addition to many dishes, there may be times when you don’t have them on hand. No need to worry; there are plenty of other ingredients that can give your dish the same delicious flavor.
These few substitutes for olives will help you get creative in the kitchen. So don’t let a lack of olives stop you from whipping up your favorite dish!
Keep reading for some ideas on what to use in place of olives as well as Kalamata olives.
What can I use instead of olives?
You can use caper, olive oil, pickled peppers, dill pickled, caperberry, artichoke heart, green peppercorn, blue cheese, pickled tomato, pickled carrots, anchovies, brine, pickled cauliflower, lemon juice and salt, black olives, pickled onions, fennel, gherkins, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes, etc. instead of olives.
20 Good Substitutes for olives
1. Caper – best substitute for green olives
Capers are small, greenish-black fruits that are often used as a seasoning. They have a slightly sour and salty flavor that can add a unique dimension to your dish. They are perfect for olive substitution.
Caper is the unopened flower buds of the caper bush. They have a sharp, tangy flavor and are often used as a seasoning or garnish in savory dishes.
Traditionally, capers were preserved in vinegar or brine. Today, they are also available jarred in olive oil. Capers can be used in various dishes, including salads, pasta sauces, and chicken and fish recipes.
2. Olive oil
If you’re searching for a substitute for olives in your recipes, olive oil is a great option. Olive oil is a type of vegetable oil that is extracted from olives, the fruit of the olive tree. Olive oil is a popular ingredient in many cuisines around the world and has a wide range of uses, both culinary and non-culinary.
You can use it in place of olives in salads, pasta dishes, and even pizzas to drizzle over bread. Olive oil has a similar flavor to olives, so it will work well in most recipes. Plus, it is a healthy fat that can help to boost your heart health.
Its mild flavor means it can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Olive oil is also healthy cooking oil, as it is low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated fat.
3. Pickled peppers
If you are seeking a substitute for olives in your recipe, pickled peppers can be a great option. Pickled peppers will add a similar salty and briny flavor to your dish as olives, but they will also add a little bit of sweetness and spice.
Additionally, Pickled peppers are a great addition to any dish. They add flavor and spice and can really liven up a meal.
Pickled peppers can be used in a variety of dishes, including stews, soups, salads, and sandwiches. They also make a great garnish or topping for pizzas and other foods. If you’re looking for a way to add some extra flavor to your cooking, pickled peppers are a great option.
If you are using pickled peppers as a substitution for olives, make sure to drain them well before adding them to your recipe.
4. Caperberry
Caper berries are often used as a garnish or as a main ingredient in various dishes. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled. Caper berries are also a popular ingredient in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes.
Some of the most common uses for caper berries include:
-Garnishing salads, fish, or meat dishes
-Adding flavor to sauces and dips
-Making pickles or relishes
-Stuffing olives
Caper berries have a unique flavor that is both tart and salty. This makes them a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. If you are looking for a new ingredient to add to your cooking repertoire, consider giving caper berries a try!
5. Artichoke heart
The artichoke heart is the edible part of the artichoke plant. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a healthy alternative to olives. The heart is also a good source of fiber and protein. Additionally, artichoke hearts are low in calories and fat.
Either eaten raw, cooked, or canned. Artichoke hearts can be added to salads, pasta dishes, pizzas, or sandwiches. They can also be served as a side dish or appetizer.
When selecting artichoke hearts, look for those that are firm and plump. Avoid those that are wilted or have brown. Artichoke heart is also a great substitution for cabbage.
If you’re searching for a way to change up your olive-based dishes, why not try substituting artichoke hearts? Artichoke hearts can provide a similar flavor and texture to olives, making them a perfect replacement in many recipes. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients like fiber and antioxidants.
So, if you’re looking for a healthy way to change up your olive-based dishes, give artichoke hearts a try!
6. Green peppercorns
If you want to substitute green peppercorns for olives in your recipe, you’ll need to adjust the other ingredients accordingly. This includes reducing or eliminating the brine from the olives, as green peppercorns are not nearly as salty.
You’ll also need to add more acidity to the dish, as green peppercorns are not as tart as olives. Finally, keep in mind that green peppercorns will add a bit of heat to the dish, so you may want to adjust the other spices accordingly.
With a little experimentation, you should be able to create a dish that is just as delicious as it would be with olives.
7. Blue cheese
Blue cheese is a kind of cheese that has had its surface inoculated with mold. This gives the cheese a blue or greenish-blue veining throughout. The taste of blue cheese is often described as sharp, tangy, and slightly salty.
It can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, soup, potato salad, burgers, and even pizza.
To substitute blue cheese for olives, simply omit the olives and add an extra half-cup of blue cheese to the recipe. If you’re using a strong blue cheese, you may want to reduce the amount of cheese in the recipe by half to avoid overwhelming the other flavors.
Read More- Best Sbstitute for Gorgonzola
8. Pickled tomato
Pickled tomatoes are a versatile addition to your pantry. They can be used in salads, as a topping for burgers and sandwiches, or simply eaten on their own as a snack.
The acidity of the vinegar helps to balance out the sweetness of the tomatoes, and the overall flavor is both fresh and zesty. Pickled tomatoes are also a great way to add some extra flavor to your cooking. Try adding them to stews, soups, or pasta dishes for an extra punch of flavor.
To make this dish even more flavorful, try substituting pickled tomatoes for the olives. The acidity of the tomatoes will contrast nicely with the richness of the dish.
9. Dill pickles
If you’re searching for a fast and easy swap that will give your dish a whole new flavor, try substituting dill pickles for olives. This substitution works well in dishes like pasta salads, pizzas, and sandwiches.
Dill pickles have a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with many different ingredients. Plus, they add a nice crunch to any dish.
Dill pickles are cucumbers that have been treated in an acidic vinaigrette. They are crunchy and have a slightly sour taste. Dill pickles are often used as a condiment or garnish on sandwiches and burgers. They can also be eaten alone as a snack.
So if you’re in the mood for something new, give this tasty substitution a try!
10. Pickles carrots
Pickled carrots are a tasty and versatile addition to any kitchen. They can be used as a simple side dish, added to salads or sandwich fillings, or even used as a garnish for cocktails. The possibilities are endless!
Pickled carrots are also super easy to make at home. All you need is a jar, some carrots, and your favorite pickling spices. Don’t forget the vinegar (or brine) too!
Add the carrots to the mixture and stir everything together. Let the carrots pickle in the mixture for at least an hour before serving. The longer they pickle, the more flavor they will have. Enjoy!
11. Try Anchovies instead of olives and see the contrast.
If you want to change up the flavor of your dish, you can substitute anchovies for olives. This will give it a more savory flavor that is perfect for those who enjoy strong flavors.
Remember that Anchovies are very salty, so you may want to add less salt to your dish if you use them as a substitution. Also is not for vegan or vegetarian choices.
Anchovies are small, silver-colored fish often used as a flavoring agent in various dishes. While they may be small, anchovies pack a powerful flavor that can enhance the taste of many foods. In addition to their unique flavor, anchovies are also a good source of protein, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
There are many different ways to enjoy anchovies. One popular way is to use them as a pizza topping. Anchovies can also be added to salads or used as an ingredient in dips or sauces. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try eating them straight out of the can!
No matter how you enjoy them, anchovies are a delicious way to add some extra flavor.
12. Sundried tomatoes
If you’re searching for a way to change up your olive-based dishes, why not substitute sundried tomatoes? Not only will this give your dish a different flavor, but the sundried tomatoes will also add a lovely pop of color. Simply swap out the olives for an equal amount of sundried tomatoes.
Sundried tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can add a delicious depth of flavor to many dishes. They can be used in everything from pasta and pizza to salads and sandwiches. One popular way is to chop them up and add them to pasta dishes. They work well with both chicken and tuna.
Sundried tomatoes have a concentrated, intense flavor that is both sweet and savory. This makes them a perfect addition to many recipes.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add some extra flavor to your meals, then sundried tomatoes are the perfect ingredient.
13. Mushrooms
Substitute mushrooms for olives; you can do so without impacting the dish too much. Mushrooms have a similar texture to olives, so they will work well in this recipe.
You may want to add a little bit of extra seasoning to account for the different flavors of the mushrooms, but other than that, the dish should turn out just fine.
Mushrooms can be used as a food source, as they are nutritious and contain protein, vitamins, and minerals. They can also be dried and powdered to make a tea or coffee substitute.
14. Gherkins
Gherkins are a type of pickled cucumber, and they have a slightly sour and salty taste. They are often used in pickling recipes, as well as in salads and other dishes. Gherkins are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium.
Gherkins are small cucumbers that are often used as a pickling spice. They can be found in many different pickled products, such as dill pickles, sweet pickles, and bread and butter pickles.
15. Fennel
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy olive substitute, try fennel! This aromatic herb can be used in various dishes, from salads to pasta. Fennel has a similar taste and texture to olives, making it the perfect replacement. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
Fennel is a versatile herb that can be used in many different ways. The bulb of the fennel plant can be eaten raw or cooked, and the leaves can be used as an herb. Fennel has a slightly sweet taste and is often used in salads or as a garnish.
The seeds of the fennel plant can also be used as a spice. Fennel is high in fiber and antioxidants and has been shown to have some health benefits.
So next time you’re in a pinch, reach for some fennel!
Read More- Substitute for Fennel Bulb for soup
16. Pickled onion
Substituting pickled onions for olives is a great way to add a little bit of zing to your dish. If you are looking for a more intense flavor, you can also try using diced onions. However, keep in mind that onions will add a bit of sweetness to the dish, so you may want to adjust the other ingredients accordingly.
Pickled onions are a popular condiment and side dish in many parts of the world. They can be eaten as is or used as a topping or ingredient in various dishes. Pickled onions have a tangy, salty flavor and can be quite addicting!
If you’ve never had pickled onions before, they are definitely worth trying! They make a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and burgers. You can also use them as a topping for pizzas and nachos. Give them a try and see for yourself how addicting they can be!
17. Black olives
You can substitute black olives for olives in most recipes. Just be aware that the flavor will be slightly different. Black olives are more intense and have a slightly salty taste. If you are using them in a dish where the olive flavor is not a key component, such as a pasta sauce, they will work just fine.
Black olives are a type of fruit that is often used as a food ingredient. They can be eaten whole, sliced, or diced and are commonly used in salads, pasta dishes, and pizza toppings. Black olives also make a great garnish or topping for sandwiches.
While black olives have a strong flavor, they are also very healthy. They are a good source of fiber and contain vitamins A, and E. Black olives are also known to have anti-inflammatory properties.
18. Lemon juice and salt
In a medium bowl, combine the garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Add the olives and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Drain the olives before serving.
19. Pickled cauliflower
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy way to substitute olives in your recipes, try pickled cauliflower!
Cauliflower is a great source of vitamins and minerals, and pickling helps to preserve its nutrients. Plus, the tangy flavor of pickled cauliflower is a perfect complement to many dishes.
Pickled cauliflower is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be added to salads, used as a topping on pizzas or sandwiches, or even eaten straight out of the jar! Pickled cauliflower is also a great way to add some extra flavor and nutrition to your diet.
20. Substitute Brine for olives
Brine is a high-concentration solution of salt in water. It can be created through the natural evaporation of seawater or by dissolving table salt (sodium chloride) in water. Brine is used for many purposes, including food preservation, cooling and freezing, firefighting foam, and as a de-icing agent.
Brine can have a strong taste, depending on the type and amount of salt used. This may make it unsuitable for some uses, such as drinking water. However, brine can be used in recipes to add flavor or used as a pickling solution.
To substitute brine for olives, you’ll need to use a bit more brine than olive oil since the brine is more concentrated. Start by adding 1/4 cup of brine to your recipe, then adjust from there according to your taste.
You may find that you prefer the flavor of brine-cured olives or that you like a saltier flavor. Either way, substituting brine for olives is a great way to add some extra flavor to your dish.
Olives substitute in the recipe
| What can I use instead of olives in a Martini | Lemon juice & Salt, Pickled onions |
| Alternative to olives in the Salad | Any substitution works well |
| Substitute for olives in Greek salad | Add any Alternatives for Greek Salad |
| Substitute for olives in Pizza | Black olives, Mushrooms, green peppercorns, Caper |
| Substitute for olives in a Stew | Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, green peppercorns |
| Olives alternatives in Puttanesca | Capers, Black olives, |
What is a good substitute for Kalamata olives?
A good substitute for Kalamata olives would be another type of olive, such as green or black olives. Olives are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes, so feel free to experiment with different types to find the perfect flavor for your dish.
What can I use instead of black olives?
Some substitutes for black olives include Kalamata olives, green olives, or even sliced almonds. If you’re looking for a more pungent olive flavor, try using oil-cured olives. Whatever type of olive you choose, make sure to pit and slice them before adding them to your dish.
What are olives and tastes?
Olives are small, round fruits that are typically green or black in color. They have a slightly bitter taste and are often used as a garnish or as a topping on various dishes. Olives can also be eaten whole, and they are a good source of healthy fats.
FAQs Related to Olives and its Alternatives
Q1. Are capers and olives the same?
Capers and olives are not the same. Capers are the pickled buds of a flowering plant, while olives are the fruit of olive trees. Both capers and olives are used as condiments or flavorings, but they have different flavors. Capers are salty and tangy, while olives are salty and slightly fruity.
Q2. What do capers taste like?
Capers may have a slightly salty and tangy flavor, while others may find them to be more bitter. In general, however, most people would describe the taste of capers as similar to that of olives. Additionally, the texture of capers is often described as crunchy or firm.
Q3. Can you replace black olives with green?
Black olives and green olives are two different types of olives. They have different flavors, so you can’t really replace one with the other. If you’re looking for a similar flavor, you could try using Kalamata olives instead of black olives.
Q4. What are the benefits of eating olives?
Olives are a healthy food that offers many benefits. They are a good source of monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Olives are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of some chronic diseases such as cancer.
Additionally, olives contain vitamins A, E, and K, as well as minerals such as iron and copper. All of these nutrients make olives a nutritious addition to any diet.