Fratepietro Bella di Cerignola Green olives in Brine and glass jar

Fratepietro Bella di Cerignola Green Olives – A Southern Italian Classic

1. What are Cerignola green olives?

Cerignola green olives, also known as Bella di Cerignola, are one of Italy’s most iconic and sought-after olive varieties. They are instantly recognisable for their exceptionally large size, firm yet tender flesh and smooth, buttery taste. Unlike smaller, more intensely bitter olives, Cerignola green olives are prized for their mild, balanced flavour and clean finish, making them ideal for both everyday snacking and elegant entertaining. Their striking elongated shape and glossy green colour also make them visually stunning on any antipasti platter.

2. Where do they come from?

Cerignola green olives originate from Cerignola in the Puglia region of Southern Italy, an area celebrated for centuries of olive cultivation. The fertile plains of Foggia, warm Mediterranean climate and rich clay-limestone soils provide perfect growing conditions. The olives are traditionally hand-harvested and preserved carefully in brine to retain their natural sweetness and crisp, succulent texture. Many producers in this region are family-run farms committed to craftsmanship and sustainable agricultural methods.

3. How can I use Cerignola green olives?

Cerignola green olives are wonderfully versatile. Enjoy them on their own as a refined aperitivo or pair them with cheeses, charcuterie and crusty bread. They are excellent added to salads, pasta dishes, focaccia and antipasti platters, or served alongside grilled vegetables and meats. Their large size and gentle flavour also make them perfect for stuffing with cheese, almonds or peppers. For a simple gourmet appetiser, drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil, herbs or a pinch of chilli flakes.

Ingredients:

Bella di Cerignola green olives, water, salt.