Cheese-stuffed olives are the snack you never knew you needed.

A staple of Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, olives take on a whole new level of indulgence once you stuff them with rich, creamy cheese. Whether you’re piling them onto a charcuterie board, serving them up at a party, or just sneaking a few straight from the jar (go ahead, we won’t judge), these little bites pack the perfect mix of briny, salty, and savory goodness. One taste, and you may never look at olives the same way again.

The secret behind their crave-worthy flavor

Cheese-stuffed olives are exactly what they sound like—briny, full-bodied olives packed with rich, creamy cheese. It’s the perfect bite, balancing the bold, salty kick of olives with the smooth, indulgent texture of cheese. While classics like feta and blue cheese are always a hit, there’s no need to stop there. Cheddar, Gorgonzola, and even cream cheese bring their own unique twist, making the possibilities practically endless.

A snack that’s centuries in the making

Olives have been around for thousands of years, dating all the way back to ancient Greece and Rome. But the idea of stuffing them? That likely started in the Mediterranean, where people have always loved filling foods with bold, flavorful ingredients. Pimento-stuffed olives became a classic over time, opening the door for even more creative fillings like garlic, anchovies, and, of course, cheese. Fast forward to today, and cheese-stuffed olives are a star in tapas bars and a go-to snack on appetizer spreads around the world.

Picking the perfect olives

When it comes to stuffing, not all olives are created equal. Here’s the inside scoop on how Mezzetta carefully selects ours:

• Green Olives: Think varieties like Castelvetrano, Gordal and Halkidiki —firm, full of flavor, and perfect for stuffing. Their tangy kick is a match made in heaven with creamy cheese.
• Stuffed Olive Varieties: Why stop at cheese? That’s why Mezzetta also offers olives stuffed with garlic, jalapeños, and pimentos, delivering a range of exciting flavors to match any craving.

Finding the perfect cheese pairing

Pairing olives with the perfect cheese isn't just a great idea—it elevates the taste to a whole new level. Check out these top picks from Mezzetta’s lineup:

• Gorgonzola Cheese: For those who crave bold, intense flavors, Gorgonzola is a perfect choice. This creamy blue cheese is known for its rich, tangy taste and slight sharpness, making it an excellent match for briny olives. The combination creates a sophisticated flavor profile, with the tangy kick of the Gorgonzola beautifully balancing the salty bite of the olives. Whether you go for the milder Gorgonzola dolce, with its smooth texture and gentle blue veins, or the more pungent Gorgonzola picante, which has a sharper, more robust flavor, you’re in for a treat. Adding Gorgonzola to your cheese-stuffed olives not only elevates the dish but also adds an extra layer of luxurious flavor to satisfy any cheese lover.

• Feta Cheese: Crumbly and tangy, feta’s bold flavor is the perfect contrast to the salty brininess of olives—it’s no surprise that this one’s a Mediterranean favorite.
• Blue Cheese: If you’re looking for a punch of flavor, blue cheese has you covered with its bold, pungent kick that really pops in stuffed olives.

Serve up bold flavors with cheese-stuffed olives

Ready to get creative? Here are a few fun ways to enjoy these savory little gems:

On an Appetizer Platter: Toss them onto a charcuterie board with cured meats, nuts, and crackers for a spread that screams “party time.”

• As a Cocktail Garnish: Give your martini or Bloody Mary a little extra flair by adding a cheese-stuffed olive for a boost of flavor.

• Tapas Night: Elevate your Spanish-inspired tapas spread with cheese-stuffed olives alongside classics like patatas bravas, tortilla Española, and chorizo for a savory delight.

• Paired with Main Dishes: These olives are perfect for taking grilled meats, salads, or pasta to the next level with a bold burst of flavor.

Why cheese-stuffed olives are a kitchen must-have

Cheese-stuffed olives bring the perfect mix of salty, creamy, and savory flavors, making them a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a party or just indulging in a little me-time, they’re easy to serve and totally customizable. Play around with different cheese fillings, get creative with your presentation, and before you know it, you’ll have your own signature stuffed olives. Trust us, your guests won’t be able to stop at just one—and neither will you!