For olive lovers, the quest for the perfect pitted green variety is a culinary holy grail. A great olive should be firm, flavourful, and perfectly brined – not a soggy, tasteless disappointment. To settle the debate once and for all, we conducted a rigorous blind taste test of jars from every major UK supermarket.
Our panel of food experts judged each olive on its texture, brine, flavour, and overall value for money. The results were surprising, proving that a high price tag doesn't always guarantee a superior snack.
The Surprising Champion: A High Street Bargain
In a stunning victory for the budget shopper, the top spot wasn't claimed by a premium retailer. The winning olive impressed judges with its perfect balance of saltiness and tang, a firm yet yielding texture, and a clean, fresh finish that kept them coming back for more.
The taste test revealed a clear divide between the contenders. Some were criticised for being overly soft or mushy, while others were condemned for an excessively harsh, metallic brine that overpowered the delicate olive flavour.
The Premium Letdown
Perhaps the biggest shock was the poor performance of a traditionally high-end supermarket. Its offering, one of the most expensive jars on the table, was described as "unremarkable" and "lacking in any distinct character", finishing near the bottom of the rankings. It served as a potent reminder that you don't always get what you pay for.
What To Look For In Your Jar
Based on our tasting, here’s what makes a great pitted green olive:
- Texture: It should have a firm bite, not be soft or mushy.
- Brine: The liquid should enhance the olive's flavour, not taste solely of salt or vinegar.
- Flavour: A good olive has a complex, fruity, and slightly grassy taste without any chemical afternotes.
- Value: The best products offer great quality without a staggering price.
So, next time you're adding olives to your shopping trolley for a salad, martini, or cheeseboard, you can make an informed choice. Skip the guesswork and head straight for our taste-test-winning jar, which delivers exceptional quality for a fraction of the price of its underwhelming rivals.
