Mom'S Stuffed Olives
Mom's Stuffed Olives are a delightful appetizer featuring green olives filled with seasoned veal or beef, then breaded and fried to perfection. The savory stuffing combined with the tangy olives creates a flavorful bite ideal for gatherings, parties, or as a sophisticated snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use large green olives with pits for this recipe.
- With a small paring knife, carefully remove the pit from each olive, keeping the olive intact.
- Form small balls of ground veal or beef seasoned with chopped parsley, pepper, garlic, and basil.
- Wrap each meat ball with a pitted olive, encasing the meat completely.
- Roll each stuffed olive in flour, then beaten eggs, and finally coat with bread crumbs (Italian seasoned or plain).
- Fry the breaded olives slowly over medium heat, turning to brown all sides evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose large, firm green olives to ensure they can hold the stuffing. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of veal or beef for a lighter option. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding herbs like oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile. This dish can also be easily adapted to a vegetarian version using a meat substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed olives as an appetizer or snack, perhaps alongside a platter of Mediterranean recipes for variety. They pair beautifully with a refreshing yogurt dip or a tangy marinara sauce. Consider serving them with a fresh salad or as part of a charcuterie board to elevate your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed olives can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they are warmed through and the coating remains crispy. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Stuffed Olives contains roughly 44 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 make these stuffed olives in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed olives up to a day ahead. Once breaded, store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry. This makes it convenient for parties or gatherings, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
What type of olives are best for stuffing?
Larger green olives with pits are ideal for this recipe as they provide enough space for the meat stuffing and maintain their shape during cooking. Kalamata olives can also be a delicious alternative if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the stuffed olives. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, turning halfway through.
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).