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Understanding the Context

The olive (botanical name Olea europaea, "European olive") is a species of subtropical evergreen tree in the family Oleaceae. Olive, subtropical broad-leaved evergreen tree and its edible fruit. The olive fruit and its oil are key elements in the cuisine of the Mediterranean and are popular outside the region. Learn about the olive tree and about the commercial production of olives and olive oil.

Key Insights

What type of olive should you use for which purpose? Our guide to olives explains how curing and color affect taste—and then dives into the flavor profiles and best uses for popular types of olives, from buttery Castelvano and smoky Gaeta to fruity Kalamata and nutty Arbequina.