Olives and cold-pressed olive oil

Since olives and olive oil have long been associated with health benefits, it's no surprise that many of the world's healthiest diets commonly include them.

Olives have a lot of heart-healthy fats, but they also have vitamin E and other plant components that lower inflammation and your chance of developing chronic diseases like osteoporosis, cancer, and heart disease. Olives are a handy and portable snack, but they are also delicious in salads or as an antipasti ingredient. Garlic, pimentos, or gorgonzola cheese can be packed within the olives to give them an added taste boost. Making a tapenade with whole olives, olive oil, anchovies, and capers will give veggie sandwich wraps fat, flavor, and moisture. Use cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil as the base for a marinade or dressing for roasted meats, vegetables, or fresh salads to increase the fat content of grilled or lightly sautéed vegetables.