Olives, Oh Olives! A Guide to Fresh Finds in LA
So, you're craving the briny goodness of fresh olives. Good on you! There's nothing quite like popping a perfectly cured olive into your mouth. But where to find these little orbs of delight in the concrete jungle that is LA? Fear not, olive aficionado, I've got you covered.
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| Where To Buy Fresh Olives In Los Angeles |
Forget Canned, Embrace Fresh
Let's get one thing straight: canned olives are to fresh olives what cardboard is to steak. They're edible, sure, but they're missing that je ne sais quoi. Fresh olives are a whole different ball game. They're briny, they're flavorful, and they're a million times better.
Where to Find Your Olive Nirvana
Farmers Markets: The Olive Oasis
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If you're looking for the ultimate fresh olive experience, farmers markets are your go-to. These bustling hubs of local produce are where you'll find the most variety and the freshest picks. From the Santa Monica Farmers Market to the Grand Central Market, you're bound to find a stall overflowing with olives.
Specialty Grocery Stores: A Curated Selection
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While not as abundant as farmers markets, some specialty grocery stores carry a decent selection of fresh olives. Think places like Erewhon or Gelson's. They might not have the same variety, but you can usually find a good quality olive or two.
Mediterranean Markets: A Taste of the Old World
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LA is a melting pot of cultures, and that includes Mediterranean cuisine. Many Mediterranean markets stock a wide range of fresh olives. You might even find some unique varieties that you won't see elsewhere.
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Tips for Choosing the Perfect Olive
- Color Matters: The color of an olive can give you clues about its flavor. Green olives tend to be more bitter, while black olives are usually milder.
- Size Does Matter: Smaller olives are often more flavorful than larger ones.
- Give 'Em a Sniff: A good olive should have a fresh, briny aroma.
How to Enjoy Your Fresh Olives
The possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
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- Stuff them with blue cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Toss them with chopped tomatoes, red onion, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
- Create a stunning antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, and your favorite olives.
FAQ: Olive Edition
How to store fresh olives? Store them in a glass jar filled with brine in the refrigerator.
How to de-bitter green olives? Soak them in a brine solution of water and salt for several days, changing the water regularly.
How to make your own olive tapenade? Combine pitted olives, capers, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor. Pulse until desired consistency.
How to grow olive trees in LA? Olive trees can be grown in Southern California, but they require specific climate conditions and care. Research is key!
How to host an olive tasting party? Gather a variety of olives, provide different dipping options, and let your guests explore the world of olives!
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