Olives

Olives are an important part of the Mediterranean diet and are an important source of healthy fats. Olives are fruits from the olive tree, which belongs to the Oleaceae family. The small, oval-shaped fruits can be green, yellow, or black in color and contain a single large seed. Olives are most often eaten ripe, which increases their pungent, salty flavor. Olives can be eaten as a snack or used to flavor salads and other dishes. The oil extracted from olives is rich in antioxidants and monounsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid, which have been linked to numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. Olives also contain important vitamins and minerals and can be a good source of dietary fiber.