Where do olives come from?Olives grow on trees called olive trees. These trees are super old; some can live for as long as 1,500 years! Olive trees originally come from the Mediterranean region, which includes countries like Spain, Italy, and Greece. Today, they are grown in similar climates around the world.All olives start off greenWhen olives first grow, they’re all green. As they ripen, they turn darker, becoming purplish or even black. But here’s a twist: not all black olives are naturally black! Some are treated with a chemical called ferrous gluconate to stabilise their colour.A vital part of a healthy dietOlives are a big part of the Mediterranean diet, which is considered one of the healthiest diets globally. They’re full of vitamin E, antioxidants, and healthy fats, which are good for your heart. So, snacking on olives not only tastes good but also gives your body a health boost!Olives are not tasty right off the treeIf you pluck an olive from the tree and try to eat it, you’ll be in for a bitter surprise! Olives contain a natural chemical called oleuropein, which makes them taste very bitter. They need to be cured or processed (using water, brine, or salt) to become the tasty morsels we enjoy.There are hundreds of olive varietiesThere are over 500 different types of olive varieties cultivated around the world. Each type varies in size, colour, shape, and flavour. Some are best for making olive oil, and others are perfect for eating whole.Olive oil comes in different gradesOlive oil, squeezed from ripe olives, is a staple in kitchens everywhere. But not all olive oils are created equal! The highest quality is ‘extra virgin olive oil,’ which is the least processed and considered the healthiest. There’s also ‘virgin’ and ‘refined’ olive oil, depending on the oil’s acidity and flavour.An ancient and symbolic fruitOlives have been cultivated for thousands of years and hold various symbolic meanings in many cultures. They’re symbols of peace, wisdom, and victory. In ancient Greece, winners of the Olympic Games were crowned with wreaths made from olive leaves.Harvesting olives is a big dealThe olive harvesting season can turn into a real community event in places where olives are a major part of local agriculture. Families and neighbours often gather to help pick olives, and the process can take several weeks. It’s hard work, but also a time for socialising and fun.Olives can be used in all sorts of recipesAside from topping pizzas and salads, olives can be chopped into pasta sauces, stews, and even bread. You can also try stuffing them with goodies like cheese, peppers, or almonds for a tasty snack.
