Fresh olives, as a shining pearl of the Mediterranean diet, not only have a unique taste, but are also rich in nutritional value. Plump and vibrantly coloured, olives are an indispensable ingredient in many dishes. This article will give you an in-depth look at how to eat fresh olives and their health benefits.
Olives can be eaten as is, or they can be used in cooking and making condiments。The flesh of the fresh olives is firm and slightly sweet and sour at first, and the taste has a light fragrance. In countries like Greece, Italy, and more, olives are eaten with grilled meats, salads, or cheeses to add a unique flavor to the dish. In addition, olive oil is also extracted from the olive fruit, which is ideal for cooking and seasoning.
The health effects of fresh olives on the human body should not be underestimated。Olives are rich in antioxidants, such as olive polyphenols, flavonoids, etc., which help to remove free radicals in the body and reduce oxidative stress, thereby delaying aging and preventing chronic diseases. The monounsaturated fatty acids in olives help regulate blood lipid levels and prevent cardiovascular disease. Olives are also rich in vitamins E and K, as well as minerals such as calcium and iron, which help to maintain the normal physiological functions of the human body.
It is worth mentioning that fresh olives also have a wide range of applications in traditional Chinese medicine theory. Traditional Chinese medicine believes thatOlive has the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying, relieving pharynx and dissolving phlegm, and is often used for symptoms such as sore throat and cough with phlegm。At the same time, olives can also quench thirst, strengthen the stomach and eliminate appetite, and also help to improve problems such as loss of appetite and indigestion.
To better enjoy the health benefits of fresh olives, we can incorporate them into our daily diet. For example, fresh olives are served with grilled dishes such as roast chicken and fish, which not only add flavor but also add nutritional value. In addition, it is also a good choice to add fresh olives to vegetable salads, which are both delicious and healthy.
Here are some ways to cook olives:
Pickled olives: This is one of the most common ways to cook olives. You can soak the olives in seasonings such as olive oil, vinegar, garlic, herbs, and peppers and marinate them for a few days to a week. Pickling can give olives a richer and deeper flavor and is a common ingredient in Mediterranean dishes.
Drizzling vegetables with olive oil: Drizzling fresh olive oil over roasted vegetables can make them even more delicious, while the healthy fats and antioxidants in olive oil can also be good for your health.
Tapenade: Blend olives, olive oil, garlic, and herbs together to create a delicious tapenade. This sauce can be used to spread bread or as a seasoning for grilled meat or fish.
Olive bread: Adding olives and olive oil to bread can make the bread more flavorful and nutritious. It is a bread practice that is very popular in the Mediterranean region.
Mixed salad: Mix vegetables like olives, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and more together to make a delicious salad. It is a simple but nutritious dish that can be served for lunch or dinner.
Grilled fish with olives: Mixing olives and olive oil and spreading it on grilled fish can make the fish even more delicious. It is a very popular practice of grilling fish in the Mediterranean region.
These are some of the ways to cook olives, I hope it gives you some inspiration!Olive oil can also be used in moderation during cooking, as it adds a rich taste to dishes while providing essential fatty acids and nutrients.
In short, fresh olives are a delicious and healthy ingredient that can be eaten in a variety of ways and have many benefits for the human body. By incorporating fresh olives into our daily diet, we can not only enjoy delicious meals, but also infuse our bodies with rich nutrients and healthy energy. Let's enjoy the deliciousness and health of fresh olives together!