The Versatility of Black Olives in the Kitchen

Black olives are a kitchen staple for a reason. Their rich, earthy flavor and smooth texture make them a versatile ingredient that elevates any dish. At De Rustica, we produce some of the best black olives in South Africa. Our award-winning olives and olive oil are crafted to perfection, ensuring every recipe you create is infused with quality and flavor.

Whether you’re preparing appetizers, mains, or even desserts, black olives offer endless possibilities to surprise and delight your guests.

Why Choose De Rustica Black Olives?

The key to outstanding recipes lies in the quality of your ingredients. At De Rustica, our black olives are grown in the pristine Klein Karoo, where the unique climate and terroir enhance their natural flavor. Our farming practices prioritize sustainability and quality, ensuring that every olive you taste is a testament to the Klein Karoo’s rich agricultural heritage.

Our farm is not just about olives; it’s an experience. Visitors can enjoy scenic mountain views, tranquil hiking trails, and comfortable accommodations at our farmhouse or stables. A visit to De Rustica isn’t complete without indulging in a tasting tour of our award-winning olive oils.

Easy Black Olive Tapenade Recipe

A black olive tapenade is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. It’s quick, delicious, and pairs wonderfully with fresh bread or crackers.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup De Rustica black olives (pitted)
• 2 tbsp De Rustica extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp capers
• Juice of half a lemon
• Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor.
2. Pulse until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional lemon juice as needed.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to three days.

Pair this tapenade with wine and enjoy the Klein Karoo experience at home. For premium olives and olive oil, check out our online store.

Black Olives in Mediterranean Salads

Black olives are a quintessential ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, especially salads. A simple Greek salad comes to life with the addition of juicy black olives.

Ingredients:

• 2 cucumbers, sliced
• 4 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 200g feta cheese, crumbled or cubed
• 1 cup De Rustica black olives
• 3 tbsp De Rustica extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Toss fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese.
• Add a handful of De Rustica black olives.
• Drizzle with a generous amount of our olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.

This light and refreshing dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a side to grilled meats.

Baked Chicken with Black Olives and Lemon

For a hearty main course, try baked chicken infused with the bold flavors of black olives, lemon, and garlic.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 3 tbsp De Rustica extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup De Rustica black olives
• 2 lemons, cut into wedges
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika (optional)

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken thighs in olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic for an hour.
2. Arrange the chicken in a baking dish, scatter De Rustica black olives and lemon wedges around it.
3. Bake at 200°C for 40 minutes, basting occasionally.

The olives’ briny flavor complements the chicken beautifully, making this a standout dish for any dinner party.

Black Olive and Olive Oil Bread

Bring the taste of the Klein Karoo to your kitchen with a homemade black olive bread recipe. This rustic loaf combines the robust flavor of black olives with the richness of De Rustica olive oil.

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp sugar
• 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (not too hot)
• 2 tbsp De Rustica extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for kneading and dipping)
• 1 cup De Rustica black olives, chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare a basic bread dough.
2. Knead in chopped black olives and a splash of olive oil before baking.
3. Serve warm with a side of olive oil for dipping.

Exploring De Rustica: More Than Just Olives

While our black olives are a highlight, there’s so much more to experience at De Rustica. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking nature, relax by the plunge pool, and sample our finest olive oils during a tasting tour. With best products and an idyllic setting, De Rustica offers a memorable escape into the heart of the Klein Karoo.

Black Olives: Your Secret Ingredient

No pantry is complete without a jar of black olives. Their rich flavor profile enhances everything from pasta dishes to roasted vegetables. Make your recipes shine with De Rustica’s premium-quality black olives and olive oils.