Olives are small, oval fruits that are traditionally grown across the Mediterranean and in California. They vary in color from green to black and are known for their distinctively salty and tangy taste and numerous health benefits. After harvesting, olives are either pressed for oil or cured to remove their natural bitterness. They can be enjoyed whole as a snack, sliced into salads, or diced into a dip like tapenade.
We source two renowned varieties of olives: Kalamata and Koroneiki—both hailing from Greece. We work hand in hand with our farmers to ensure we bring the best olives in the world directly to you. Whether you enjoy the robust taste of Kalamata olives or the rich, health-boosting oil from Koroneiki olives in our Extra Virgin Olive Oil, our products are a testament to the ancient traditions and superior quality of Greek olive cultivation.
Kalamata Olives
Our Kalamata olives come from the sun-soaked Peloponnese peninsula in Kalamata, Greece, the capital of the Messenia region. This area is famed for its beautiful beaches, ancient castles, and, most notably, its olives. To maintain their recognized quality, Kalamata olives must originate from this designated region, as guaranteed by their Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. This status ensures that the olives' characteristics and quality are linked to the region's natural environment, including its climate and soil, along with traditional local production methods. The PDO status preserves traditional recipes and methods, prevents the misuse of the regional name, and ensures that consumers receive authentic, single-origin products.
Kalamata olive trees have larger leaves compared to other olive trees, allowing them to absorb more sunshine. This unique trait contributes to their distinctive flavor and health benefits. Characterized by their deep purple color, large size, and plump, elongated shape, Kalamata olives stand out among other varieties. The cultivation of olive trees dates back over 5,000 years, with traditions perfected over millennia. Kalamata olives are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, iron, calcium, and Vitamin A.
Our olives are handpicked to avoid bruising and are fermented naturally, ensuring a rich, tangy flavor. Our Kalamata olives are the only olive type in the market that don’t use an industrialized process, colors, or alterations during processing, creating a better quality, better tasting product with a richer aroma. They are naturally brined in salt, vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil.
Koroneiki Olives
We source our Koroneiki olives directly from centuries-old groves in the stunning countryside of Sparta, Greece to create our delicious Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Olive Oil Blend. Koroneiki olives are renowned for their exceptional quality, especially when it comes to olive oil production. These olives are smaller and have a higher oil content compared to other varieties, making them ideal for producing rich, flavorful olive oil. The centuries-old groves where these olives are cultivated benefit from the unique climate and fertile soil of the region, contributing to their superior quality.
Koroneiki olives are rich in polyphenols, which are natural compounds that have been shown to aid in slowing the development of neuro and cardiovascular diseases. The oil produced from these olives is a perfect addition to any healthy lifestyle, offering numerous health benefits alongside its exquisite flavor.
TOP 3 HEALTH BENEFITS OF OLIVES
Olives have been celebrated for their health benefits for years. Olives are not only a delightful addition to your pantry but also a nutritional powerhouse ingredient. By incorporating olives into your diet regularly, you can enjoy their taste and reap the benefits of these Mediterranean diet staples. Whether enjoyed as a snack drizzled into salads, or incorporated into your favorite recipes, Kalamata and Koroneiki olives are a delicious and healthy choice.
1. Rich in Nutrients
2. Gut Health and Cholesterol
Olives are a great source of dietary fiber, which helps support healthy gut bacteria, promoting better digestion and overall gut health. Additionally, olives are low in cholesterol and rich in healthy fats, making them a heart-healthy snack that can help reduce the risk of heart disease and support a healthier lifestyle.
3. Healthy FatsÂ
Olives and olive oil are rich sources of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. These healthy fats help reduce bad cholesterol levels while maintaining good cholesterol. Consuming monounsaturated fats from olives and olive oil can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, these fats improve insulin sensitivity and provide anti-inflammatory benefits, making olives and olive oil nutritious additions to a balanced diet.Â
TIPS FOR ENJOYING OLIVES
Kalamata and Koroneiki olives are a foodie’s dream and a health enthusiast’s delight, offering endless possibilities for delicious and nutritious meals. Enjoy them on their own for a healthy, flavorful snack that’s perfect any time of day. Elevate a cheese plate with the gourmet touch of rich, tangy olives, add them to your sandwiches or bake them into your pizza to get a taste of Greece. Stir them into homemade pasta sauce for a depth of flavor, and toss them into a Greek salad to capture the essence of traditional Mediterranean cuisine.
If you're on the go, you can find SIMPLi Kalamata olives in popular restaurants like Chopt, NAYA, and Just Salad, and you can taste our Koroneiki olives in SIMPLi Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Olive Oil Blend!
