Got some olives in the cupboard? Here's how to turn them into 22 irresistible recipes

Thursday 23 April 2026 15:30 - Adèle Peyches
Got some olives in the cupboard? Here's how to turn them into 22 irresistible recipes

We all have them somewhere in the kitchen. A tin of olives forgotten at the back of the cupboard, bought "just in case"... and never used. And yet, these little fruits full of character can become the basis for ultra-gourmet recipes that are quick and easy to prepare.

Salads, aperitifs, hot dishes or improvised sandwiches: olives have an incredible talent for spicing up any preparation in the blink of an eye. So before letting them gather dust, why not give them a real place in your meals?

Here's some inspiration.


Why olives deserve more than just an aperitif?

Often associated with aperitifs, olives are far more versatile than you might think.

Rich in flavor, lightly salted, sometimes fruity or even lemony, depending on the variety, they immediately add depth to a recipe. Green, black, pitted or marinated... there's something for everyone.

They're the perfect ingredient for an effortless twist on any dish.

Another advantage: they keep for a long time and are always ready to use. A real everyday ally.

Revisiting everyday dishes

Olives have a magical power: they transform simple recipes into dishes full of character.

They are perfect in :

  • simmered dishes (chicken, vegetables...)
  • savory tarts
  • Mediterranean dishes

Their lightly salted taste brings out the flavor without the need to add too much seasoning.

A small detail that changes everything on the plate.

How do I use them properly?

To make the most of their flavour, here are a few simple tips:

  • lightly rinse canned olives if they are very salty
  • cut them into pieces to distribute them more evenly in your recipes
  • combine them with mild ingredients to balance flavours.

In the right proportions, they add just the right amount of character.

So, shall we open this box?

Long relegated to a simple snacking role, olives clearly deserve better.

Easy to use, full of flavor and ultra-practical, they allow you to create a multitude of recipes without complicating your life.



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Adèle PeychesAdèle Peyches
Editorial manager who just can't wait for winter to enjoy fondue! Passionate about gastronomy and always on the lookout for new culinary gems, I first studied law before returning to my first love: the taste of good products and the joy of sharing around the table :)

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