Talks and Demos
By Nicole Neethling | September 28, 2025
Top Chefs Showcase Olive Recipes at Swartland Festival
The Riebeek Valley, hosted the first Swartland Olive Festival in over 5 years. Swartland Tourism, together with SA Olive Association, joined forces to create an experience that was just about the “Olive”. The idea was to elevate the style and the vibe, while creating a place for many different olive, and olive oil producers a space to shine.Â
And man did it shine! The Riebeek Kasteel square was transformed into a space that can be likened to the Oranjezicht Market. With white tents, straw covered floors and hanging lights, it was beautiful and inviting.
Stalls boasted an amazing range of South Africa’s finest olive products for all to taste. Wine farms were also in attendance to offer the perfect wine pairings. Guests danced and tapped their feet to the live music of RAAF and reggae singers for the whole weekend.
Added to the offerings of the day, were the Chef Demos. I was proud to share the stage with the likes of Jenny Morris, well known as the giggling gourmet, who has featured in many homes as a Chef and radio personality;Â
Pieter Malan, an award-winning chef and third-place winner of the reality show Kokkedoor; and Cobus Bekker, goldsmith to gourmet, whose infectious enthusiasm and warm personality make every dining experience at Grounded in Yzerfontein truly special.
We were each asked to demo some of our favourite summer dishes, using olives and olive products that were on show.Â
In the traditional Flour & Oil style, we added our spices to the pot and showed our guests how we can add some spice to spring. Using Kloovenburg’s Dipping Oil Chilli & Garlic, and Willowcreek’s Coriander Infused Olive Oil, we created mini bunny chows with chicken curry, topped with sambals and lemon, and a stack of spicy prawns on a bed of blue cheese and peanut brittle salad. It was an explosion of flavours that was enjoyed by all.Â
All in all, it was a huge success, and I personally cant wait for next years festival.Â
