Introduction
Article
When it comes to entertaining or enjoying a cozy night in, there’s nothing quite like a delicious bowl of marinated olives. Packed with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, this dish brings together a blend of olive oils, fresh herbs, and citrus zest that elevates the humble olive into a gourmet snack. Ideal for serving with cheese and crackers or simply on their own, this marinated olive recipe is sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Olive Oil
1 cup olive oil
Garlic
4 cloves garlic, sliced and divided
Fresh Rosemary
2 sprigs fresh rosemary, divided
Fresh Thyme
4 sprigs fresh thyme, divided
Orange Zest
3 (2-inch) strips orange zest from 1 orange, divided
Lemon Zest
3 (2-inch) strips lemon zest from 1 lemon, divided
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Castelvetrano Olives
8 ounces pitted Castelvetrano olives, drained (1 jar)
Kalamata Olives
8 ounces pitted Kalamata olives, drained (1 jar)
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
In just a few simple steps, you can create a delightful appetizer that will delight your senses. The combination of garlic, herbs, and citrus creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile that enhances the natural taste of the olives. Perfect for parties, picnics, or a simple snack, these marinated olives are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Infused Oil
In a small pot, heat 1 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Add half of the sliced garlic, 1 sprig of fresh rosemary, 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, 1 strip of orange zest, 1 strip of lemon zest, and chili flakes (if using). Warm the mixture until it becomes fragrant, typically about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let it smoke. Once fragrant, remove the pot from heat and allow it to cool for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Layer the Olives
In a lidded container, begin layering the olives. First, add the drained Castelvetrano olives, followed by the Kalamata olives. Next, sprinkle in the remaining half of the sliced garlic, the second sprig of rosemary, the other 2 sprigs of thyme, and the remaining strips of orange and lemon zest.
Step 3: Combine and Refrigerate
Carefully pour the infused oil, along with all the herbs, garlic, and zest, over the layered olives in the container. Stir gently to ensure all olives are coated in the oil mixture. Cover the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let the olives marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.
Notes
Storage
The marinated olives can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure they are covered with oil to maintain freshness.
Flavor Development
For a more intense flavor, consider letting the olives marinate for several hours or even overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These marinated olives make a great appetizer, snack, or addition to a charcuterie board. They pair well with cheeses, crusty bread, or as part of a Mediterranean platter.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and citrus zests based on your flavor preferences. Other herbs like oregano or dill, or even infusing with red wine vinegar can alter the flavor profile.
Cook techniques
Infusing Oil
Heat olive oil gently with aromatics like garlic, rosemary, thyme, and citrus zest to create a fragrant infusion that enhances the flavor of the olives.
Layering Ingredients
Carefully layer olives with remaining aromatics, ensuring even distribution of flavors throughout the mixture for a consistent taste.
Marinating
Allow the olives to marinate in the infused oil in a sealed container to enhance their flavor profiles, recommending a minimum of 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Cooling Aromatics
Let the infused oil cool before adding it to the olives, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly while preventing the cooking of the ingredients.
FAQ
Can I use different types of olives?
Yes, you can substitute with other varieties of olives based on your preference for taste and texture.
How long can the marinated olives be stored?
Marinated olives can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Is the crushed red pepper necessary?
The crushed red pepper is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs, but use about one-third of the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
What else can I add to the olive mixture?
Feel free to add additional ingredients like capers, garlic cloves, or other citrus zests for extra flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for gifting?
Yes, marinated olives make for a great homemade gift when presented in a decorative jar.
Conclusion
The infused olive oil with herbs and citrus zest elevates the flavor of the olives, making them a delicious and aromatic appetizer. This simple recipe allows for various adaptations, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Let the flavors meld together, and enjoy a delightful combination that can be served at gatherings or enjoyed as a snack.
Herbed Goat Cheese Spread
Blend goat cheese with the infused oil and herbs for a creamy spread perfect for crackers or bread.
Grilled Vegetable Medley
Use the infused oil to toss seasonal vegetables before grilling them for a flavorful side dish.
Citrus Vinaigrette
Whisk the infused oil with vinegar, mustard, and honey to create a zesty dressing for salads.
Pasta with Olives and Herbs
Toss cooked pasta with the infused oil, olives, and a sprinkle of parmesan for a quick and tasty meal.
Savory Focaccia Bread
Drizzle the infused oil over focaccia dough before baking, topped with sea salt and herbs for extra flavor.
