Garlic, pimento, feta, or even blue cheese! These are fantastic for instant appetizers.

Whether you're looking for the perfect martini garnish or a centerpiece for your next charcuterie board, here is everything you need to know before you buy olives. 1. Where to Buy: The Olive Bar vs. The Jar If you have the option, .

Whole olives (with the pits) generally have a better texture because they haven't been processed as much. However, for cooking or tapenades, pitted is a huge time-saver.

When you're scanning the shelves at retailers like Trader Joe's or online gourmet shops like iGourmet, keep an eye out for these terms:

The Ultimate Guide to Buying Olives: From Grocery Aisle to Gourmet Jar

These are massive green olives from Italy. They are meaty and crisp, making them the ultimate snacking olive.

The "entry-level" olive. They are bright green, buttery, and mild—perfect for people who think they don't like olives.

The Greek classic. These are deep purple, almond-shaped, and have a distinct smoky, fruity tang. Essential for a true Greek salad.