On their own, Kalamatas are elegant and fruity, with a dense, almost meaty texture — a near-perfect inclusion for mezze boards and tapas plates. But even near-perfection can do with the occasional twist, as is skillfully demonstrated by Trader Joe’s Kalamata Olives with Jalapeños and Peri Peri Peppers. This jar of whole, unpitted Kalamatas and sliced jalapeños & Peri Peris builds upon its star olives’ savory sophistication with a devilish dose of peppery heat to brilliant effect, whether you enjoy them as a side, as an ingredient in part of a larger recipe, or simply as a snack, straight from the jar. As they marinate together in the brine, these Kalamatas don’t just take on some of the spice from their pepper partners, but some of their subtler flavors, too: there’s the fresh, vegetal notes of the jalapeño, and the brighter, tarter notes of the Peri Peri, each accentuating and enhancing the deeper Kalamata profile. We find that this fiery balancing act tastes especially great when the olives are warmed up slightly before serving, and pairs particularly well with a plate of warm cheese, too: think our Greek Feta in Brine or a freshly-grilled Halloumi.