Colossal Black Olives Stuffed With Pesto-Cream Filling
Creamy pesto-filled black olives deliver a savory, flavorful bite with fresh basil, garlic, and lemon, perfect as an appetizer or party finger food for any gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Puree all ingredients except olives in a food processor or blender.
- Spoon mixture into a pastry bag and pipe into olive cavities.
- Chill until serving time.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother filling, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can substitute fresh basil with 1/4 cup of Basil Sauce for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, use store-bought pesto instead of making your own. Adjust the garlic to your preference; roasted garlic can add a milder taste.
Serving Suggestions
These olives make a delightful appetizer at parties or gatherings. Serve them alongside Mediterranean recipes like Spanikopita or Phyllo Cheese Triangles for a themed spread. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or as part of a charcuterie board, adding a burst of flavor and creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together as they sit. To serve, simply enjoy them cold or let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to enhance their taste before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Colossal Black Olives Stuffed With Pesto-Cream Filling contains roughly 42 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
Yes, you can try using ricotta or goat cheese for a different texture and flavor. Keep in mind that the consistency may vary, so you might need to adjust the other ingredients to achieve a good piping texture.
How can I make these olives spicier?
To add some heat, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the filling. You could also use jalapeño-infused olive oil when blending the filling for a subtle but flavorful kick.
Can I prepare these olives in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the olives a day ahead of time. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This allows the flavors to develop, making them even tastier.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).