§Olives have always played a central role in Cretan culture — from family dinners to festive meze platters. But sometimes, tradition welcomes a little innovation. That’s where our garlic olives from Crete come in.
At Kalaitzakis Family, we believe in respecting the methods passed down through generations, while also introducing natural flavor enhancements that make our olives stand out. Our garlic-infused olives are a perfect example of that balance: rustic, honest, and bold.
What Makes Garlic Olives from Crete Special?
Cretan olives are naturally rich in flavor thanks to the island’s unique soil and climate. We start by handpicking only the best fruit from our family groves in Kandanos, Chania. Then, using the traditional dry-salting method, we cure the olives slowly with sea salt and extra virgin olive oil.
Once cured, we introduce natural garlic — either sliced or crushed — into the packaging. The garlic infuses the olives gently, complementing the robust olive flavor without overpowering it.
The result is a smooth, savory experience that’s far more refined than mass-produced flavored olives. We never use extracts, powders, or artificial additives — only real ingredients and patience.
How to Enjoy Garlic Olives
Our garlic olives from Crete are a versatile addition to any table. Their deep, aromatic profile makes them ideal for:
Serving alongside cheese and rusks in a traditional meze
Adding to green salads or roasted vegetables
Mixing into pasta dishes or grain bowls
Offering as a rustic appetizer with a glass of wine
Warmed gently with a splash of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs, they transform into a cozy and flavorful side dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a quiet moment, garlic olives offer a taste of Crete with every bite.
Rooted in Kandanos, Grown with Care
The mountain village of Kandanos, in the Selino region of Chania, is home to our olive groves. These trees have weathered seasons, stories, and generations. Grown in mineral-rich soil under the Cretan sun, they yield olives with dense flavor and rich texture — perfect for slow curing.
Garlic, long used in Cretan kitchens for its health benefits and bold taste, adds a local touch to a timeless ingredient. The pairing of Cretan olives and garlic is more than a flavor decision — it’s a celebration of the island’s character.
How to Use Garlic Olives
These olives shine in:
Charcuterie and meze platters
Salads with feta and tomatoes
Tapenades and spreads
Warmed slightly with herbs and olive oil
Want a simple pairing idea?
“Serve them with graviera cheese, a slice of village bread, and a glass of red Cretan wine. That’s dinner.
Why Garlic?
Garlic is more than a seasoning. It has deep roots in Mediterranean cooking, not only for its flavor but also for its known nutritional benefits. Traditionally used to support digestion and heart health, garlic adds depth to dishes without adding heaviness.
Combined with naturally preserved olives, garlic enhances both taste and function — making this product an excellent addition to the Cretan diet.
Our method ensures the garlic flavor is infused gradually and evenly, never overwhelming. It elevates the olive — not masks it.
A New Favorite for Old and New Fans Alike
Garlic olives aren’t just for garlic lovers. They’ve become a favorite among those who are new to Cretan food and long-time fans alike. The subtle, balanced infusion allows the quality of the olive to shine, while still delivering a rich and memorable flavor.
They also make a great gift — something special, local, and unexpected. For many of our visitors, it’s the first product they try… and the one they come back asking for.
Natural, Simple, Honest
Everything we do at Kalaitzakis Family follows one core principle: make food we’d be proud to serve our own children. That means:
No chemical preservatives
No artificial flavorings
No rushed processes
Just real olives, grown with care, and a touch of nature’s boldest flavor — garlic.
FAQs
Not at all. They’re mild and aromatic — not hot.
Keep refrigerated after opening. They stay fresh for weeks in their vacuum-sealed pack.
Absolutely! They’re delicious in stews, roasted with potatoes, or added to warm pasta dishes.
A Cretan Flavor Worth Sharing
Garlic olives from Crete aren’t just a product — they’re a bridge between tradition and innovation. They represent a way of eating that’s mindful, flavorful, and rooted in the rhythms of nature.
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Cretan culture through food, these olives offer a perfect place to start. They’re bold but balanced, rustic yet refined — and unmistakably from Crete.
