Calamata olives are purplish, elongated, almond-shaped olives that are grown in the Peloponnese part of Greece, mostly in the area surrounding the city of Kalamata, for which they were named. Firm and meaty, these olives exude a pungent flavor. Classically, they are prepared by splitting the olive and then they are brine-cured and packed in wine vinegar and olive oil. Oftentimes, they are used in Greek Salads but can also be used in recipes for baked meats, tapenades or simply as a snacking olive.