Game Day Food Ideas with California Olives
Game day calls for crowd-pleasing bites that pack a punch in flavor and satisfaction, and California Ripe Olives are just the ingredient to elevate your lineup. With their rich, buttery taste, and satisfying texture, California olives blend seamlessly into bold dips, gooey cheese pulls, and spicy snacks. Here are some game day food ideas from our California Grown Creators that highlight the versatility of California olives, ensuring your spread is one to remember!
Olive Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers
Cheesy, Spicy, and Savory
For those who love a bit of heat, these cheddar jalapeño poppers from Big Delicious Life take it to the next level by adding California Ripe Olives. The olives bring a slight brininess that perfectly complements the creamy cheddar and sharp jalapeño flavors. Wrapped in crispy bacon, these poppers are a game day food dream come true!
Get the recipe here
Creamy Olive Dip
Smooth, Savory, and Perfect for Sharing
This creamy dip from Salt and Wind is loaded with flavor, thanks to the star ingredient—California olives. With a blend of cream cheese, herbs, and olives, it’s perfect for dipping veggies, chips, or even spreading on a crusty baguette. It’s easy to whip up, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the game.
Get the recipe here
Best-Ever Marinated Olives
Herby, Tangy, and Addictive
If you’re looking for a classic, these marinated olives from A Girl Defloured are a game day food essential. California olives soak up an aromatic mixture of herbs, garlic, and spices, creating a tasty and sophisticated snack that’s as good with a cocktail as it is with a handful of chips.
Get the recipe here
Loaded Olive Potato Skins
Crispy, Cheesy, and Loaded with Flavor
Bring on the hearty flavor with these olive-studded potato skins from This Mess is Ours. Topped with cheese, sour cream, and slices of black olives, each bite has the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and savory elements that make them impossible to resist.
Get the recipe here
Olive and Pepper Queso Fundido
Spicy, Melty, and Irresistible
This queso fundido from Tahiri Flowers is a cheese lover’s paradise, featuring melted cheese loaded with sautéed peppers and savory olives. Perfect for dipping or pouring over chips, this hot, gooey dip is bound to be a game-day winner.
Get the recipe here
Green Olive Garlic Cheese Bread
Garlicky, Cheesy, and Crowd-Pleasing
Add a twist to classic garlic bread by mixing in green California olives! This cheesy bread has a fantastic savory depth from the olives and garlic, making it a versatile snack that pairs with anything from wings to veggies and dip on game day.
Get the recipe here
Pissaladière
This is Jaíne Mackievicz’s favorite appetizer for holiday gatherings. It is so convenient—easily made ahead and served cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for entertaining. The mild flavor of California Ripe Olives balances the sweetness of caramelized onions and the brininess of anchovies, creating a richly flavorful tart that pairs seamlessly with a variety of wines, making your celebrations both delicious and stress-free.
Pescado a la Veracruzana
Zesty, Bright, and Bursting with Flavor
For a more substantial option, try Pescado a la Veracruzana from Hola Jalapeno, a delicious dish inspired by Mexican coastal flavors. Fresh fish is cooked in a sauce with tomatoes, capers, and California olives, creating a meal that’s as healthy as it is flavorful. Serve this as a lighter, main-dish option amid your game-day spread.
Get the recipe here
Mini Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your game day food with these Mini Stuffed Peppers featuring California Ripe Olives and Real California Pepper Jack Cheese. This quick and flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of mini bell peppers with the spicy kick of pepper jack cheese and the briny taste of olives. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for gatherings or a light snack.
THE BEST APPETIZERS ARE ALWAYS IN SEASON>>>
These game day food ideas show just how versatile California Ripe Olives can be. They add depth to dips, brightness to finger foods, and a savory punch to main dishes. Whatever the score, your game-day spread will be a winning lineup!
Article written by Alison Needham for California Grown.