The hunt for the perfect green olive substitute isn’t as hard as you’d think. We’ve got you covered with four quick options that’ll shake up your flavor game. Seriously, who wants a bland dish?
Our top picks will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Whether you’re in a pinch or just looking to mix it up, we’ve tried them all.
Ready to shake things up? We’ve been there, and these swaps won’t disappoint. Let’s get rolling with these tasty substitutes.
4 Easy Substitutes for Green Olives
As much as we love green olives, sometimes they just don’t make the cut. Whether you’re not a fan of their briny flavor or simply don’t have them on hand, these alternatives will do the trick.
1 – Capers
First, let’s chat about capers. These little guys bring a salty, tangy punch to your dishes. They really stand out with their unique bite. Perfect for swapping in for green olives, especially in salads and sauces.
We often use capers in a 1:1 ratio with olives. They’re a bit more briny, so use sparingly at first. Their tanginess can elevate a simple dish to something extraordinary. Try them in a pasta dish or even on a pizza.
For more on caper substitutes, check out this caper substitute guide.
2 – Cornichons
The tiny French pickles, cornichons, are sharp and zesty. These offer the vibrant snap that green olives have but with a slight crunch.
Substitute them at a 1:1 ratio for olives. They work magic in salads and charcuterie boards. Expect a tangier twist with less brine than olives.
We dig them in a chicken salad or sprinkled over a sandwich. Their tang complements meats beautifully. For more pickle swaps, check out the cornichon substitute guide.
Cornichons’ bold taste is unforgettable, and they bring a unique flavor to every dish.
3 – Pickled Jalapeños
The pickled jalapeños swap keeps things spicy and zesty. These give a strong, sharp kick that’s a bit fiercer than olives. Use a 1:2 ratio — they’re potent, so start slow. They bring heat and crunch, unlike the smooth olive texture.
We love them in a taco salad or chopped on nachos. The tang of pickled jalapeños can wake dishes up. For more swaps, check the jalapeño substitute guide.
They stand out with bolder flavors, making your meals unforgettable. Add sparingly if you’re heat-sensitive.
4 – Sundried Tomatoes
Last on our list, we have sundried tomatoes. They offer a rich, sweet tang that green olives just don’t. Use a 1:1 ratio for this swap. The robust flavor of sundried tomatoes can make dishes shine.
We like using them in pasta dishes or mixed into a salad. Their sweetness contrasts nicely with savory ingredients. In soups, they add a deep, earthy sweetness that’s hard to beat.
Feel free to check out this sundried tomato substitute guide for more ideas.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.