The Mediterranean diet is said to be one of the healthiest ones in the world. One of the contributing factors to this lifestyle is undeniably the olive and its byproduct: olive oil. The Italians have incorporated olives and olive oil into their cuisine for thousands of years. While it is said that the first olive trees grew in what is now known as Turkey and have been mentioned throughout Greek mythology and the Bible as having restorative powers, they have been a symbol of peace, vitality, and of course, nourishment. It has been nicknamed “The Noble Fruit.” The best restaurant Orlando, Christini’s Ristorante Italiano, shares the veneration of the olive and its oil by using the highest quality imported olives and olive oils in the recipes.
Olive trees hold a special place in the hearts of Italians. Some trees have been known to produce fruit for centuries, and some have lived over two thousand years growing gnarled and wide. Most olive trees are nothing special to look at. They are not particularly tall trees and, in fact, it is pretty easy to climb them and to pick their fruit. They are one of the heartiest trees on earth as they are capable of living in a variety of soil types and can endure salt water. They grow best in sunny, temperate climates and their leaves remain year round.
What most olive lovers don’t know is that the fruit plucked straight from the tree is one of the bitterest flavors ever encountered on earth. Olives are indeed edible at harvest, but it is definitely an acquired taste. Still predominantly harvested by hand, olives undergo a curing process that transforms them into the delectable treats we have grown to love. The fruit is easily bruised, so great care is given in the harvesting of table olives. Knowing when to pick which variety is essential to the olives, whether consumed as a whole fruit or pressed into any variety of oils.
There are several curing processes that can be used for cultivating the olives taste. Popular curing methods include brining (salt water curing), water curing, oil curing, sun drying, or lye curing. All of these were designed to eliminate the bitterness of the olive. Flavor can then be infused with the use of garlic, herbs, spices, etc., which transform the olives into their ultimate magnificence. The versatility of the olive is indisputable. Whether green or black, stuffed with cheese, pimento, almonds, or anchovies, olives are the perfect pairing with fish, poultry, meat, pasta, and many alcoholic beverages.
Enjoy a meal made using the most authentic Italian recipes, the highest quality ingredients, and the finest imported olive oils. Experience the best restaurant in Orlando. Make your reservation now.
