Olive And Pepper: An Extraordinary Combination

Olives have formed part of man's nutritional history. In some regions of the world, some cultures have based part of their economy on this fruit and its product: extra virgin olive oil. Initially, it spread from Asia Minor to the whole world, and its use gradually adapted to the gastronomic and industrial creativity of the new era. Thus, in 18th century France, farcies d'anchois (olives stuffed with anchovies) began to be produced, precursors of the olive stuffed, olive and pepper , and other combinations and infused olive oil that we all love today.

The influence of the European kingdoms in Latin America led to the use of the olive, incorporating it into the new ingredients that these regions provide, such as pepper, which is a vegetable native to South America, specifically Bolivia and Peru, but which was later brought by Christopher Columbus to the European continent. This way, these ingredients' gastronomic and nutritional richness was expanded a little more.

The combination of olive and pepper is a unique flavor that you will surely be able to enjoy in each of your recipes. But not only that, you will be able to benefit from the remarkable and fascinating properties that they contribute to the body. Find out more about them below.

Olive: more than a delicious snack

Olives are a snack we turn to at any time of the year for appetizers or elaborate dishes. However, now we want to focus on its properties to protect health.

Olives are a source of vitamins A and E, as well as minerals. These nutrients contribute to the fact that olives have great antioxidant power, which is beneficial for strengthening our immune system. Therefore, they will become our best allies in colder months like fall and winter. They will help our immune system deal with colds and flu as well as play an essential preventive role against these and other diseases.

The cold season can make our immune system weak. It is not surprising that when the winter arrives, colds accompanied by sneezing, fever, and cough, among other common symptoms, we can prevent them by being proactive, listening to our body, and eating a healthy diet.

In addition to traditional natural resources to combat colds, such as honey or orange, we have a perhaps lesser-known ally: Olives.

Another greatly beneficial aspect of the olive lies in its energy value. That fact gives our body the strength and energy we need so much in this cold season, where the hours of sun are scarce. Although the energy value of olives is high, their caloric value is incredible low. Infact, ten olives do not reach 100 kcal, and experts recommend eating seven daily units.

Olives contain a generous amount of Omega 9, also called oleic acid. Its main function is the reduction of blood pressure. This prevents cardiovascular diseases, and bad cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood are reduced. Vitamin E also prevents the oxidation of lipoproteins, which translates into greater cardiovascular health.

Pepper: benefits of eating it

Pepper, for its part, makes excellent contributions. Red pepper, for example, is made up of 90% water and is low in calories. In addition, it is rich in fiber and carbohydrates. It is also rich in calcium, potassium, phosphorus, carotenoids, and vitamins A and C. In fact, it is one of the vegetables with the highest vitamin C content.

When eaten with iron-rich foods, it improves its absorption. In addition, it helps us improve and maintain good skin condition due to its high antioxidant content. It also benefits our cardiovascular health due to its high content of vitamin C, flavonoids, and phytochemicals such as lycopene, which are beneficial for the heart and memory. Another crucial quality of red pepper is that it helps to strengthen the health of the colon thanks to its fiber content.

To enjoy most of the benefits of red pepper, it is recommended to include it in our diet on a regular basis. Its incorporation will be effortless because the pepper is very versatile. It can be added to a wide variety of recipes, such as salads, baked stuffing, stir-fries, etc.

How to incorporate olive and pepper into a dish?

Olive and pepper are one of the most beneficial combinations if you intend to make the most of the iron content of olives. The consumption of peppers and olives helps the maximum absorption of this mineral. Individually, their contributions range from vitamins A, B6, C, and E, to folic acid and flavonoids.

Gastronomically it complements the semi-acid flavor of the fruit with a slightly bitter taste, a flavor that may already be remarkably familiar to us if we remember their participation as ingredients in a delicious pizza.

Also, we can combine olive and pepper in more original recipes to delight our palate. Below, we give you an idea of how to incorporate them with other ingredients. The ingredients that you will need are the following:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Then, cut the peppers in half, remove the seeds and ribs, and place them on a baking sheet skin side up. Roast them for 20 minutes until they turn black on the outside. (25 minutes)

2. Remove from the oven, place in a bowl, and cover to steam for a few minutes until cool enough to handle. (10 minutes)

3. Add the garlic, basil, capers, and olives to a medium bowl and set aside.

4. Carefully remove the blackened skin from the peppers with your fingers and cut them into long strips. Mix with the rest of the ingredients, add certified olive oil, season to taste with salt and pepper, and mix well. (10 minutes)

Olive and pepper: Try a new and different mix

At We Olive, we have created an addictive mix of olives, peppers, and spices to surprise your guests with a different touch. If you've used olives more than once, why not try a new and different blend? We can't wait to tell you how to get the best quality spicy olive and pepper tapenade.

Also, you can use our section of olive oil stores near me to taste our delicious and incomparable products in person. If you want to know more about these incredible products, do not hesitate to visit our online store, you can call us at 805 238 2900 or email us at info@weolive.com.