Greek Olive Stuffed with Cheese Bites
These savory bites feature plump green or Kalamata olives stuffed with creamy cheese and herbs, delivering the perfect salty, tangy, and creamy flavor. Enjoy them fresh, or bread and fry them for an extra indulgent variation.
Time:
Prep: 15 minutes
Optional chill: 15 minutes
Total: 15–30 minutes
Yield: 20–25 stuffed olives
Ingredients:
Base:
20–25 large green olives (like Halkidiki or Castelvetrano), pitted
(or use Kalamata for a more intense flavor)
Cheese Filling:
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp cream cheese or Greek yogurt (for smooth texture)
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano or parsley
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the filling:
In a small bowl, mash feta and cream cheese together with a fork until smooth. Mix in lemon zest, herbs, garlic powder, and pepper.
Stuff the olives:
Use a small spoon, piping bag, or ziplock bag with the corner snipped off to pipe the cheese mixture into each pitted olive.
Chill or serve immediately:
Chill for 15 minutes for firmer texture (optional). Arrange on a mezze platter or skewer for serving.
Optional Variations:
Cheese Options:
Use goat cheese for a tangier filling.
Add sun-dried tomatoes, chopped walnuts, or chopped olives into the filling for texture.
Fried Version:
Roll stuffed olives in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Freeze for 15 minutes.
Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy (2–3 minutes).
Drain and serve hot with tzatziki or lemon yogurt dip.
Tips:
Buy pitted olives, or carefully remove pits with an olive pitter or small knife.
Use firm olives for easier stuffing.
For party platters, serve alongside roasted red peppers, cucumber slices, and pita chips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Stuffed olives can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Q: Are Kalamata olives good for stuffing?
Yes, if pitted, but their wrinkled texture is softer. Use green olives for more structure.
Q: Can I serve them warm?
If frying, yes. If fresh-stuffed, serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 110
Protein: 3g
Carbs: 2g
Fat: 10g
Sodium: 480mg