About the Recipe
These Zesty Marinated Olives offer an irresistible burst of Mediterranean flavor, perfect for elevating any appetizer platter or snack. The combination starts with a premium blend of olives—such as briny Kalamata and buttery Castelvetrano—that are carefully chosen for their distinct textures and tastes.
The star of the dish is the bright, zesty marinade, crafted from high-quality extra virgin olive oil infused with a thoughtful mix of complementary ingredients. Sliced garlic and fresh rosemary and thyme create a rich, savory, and aromatic base, while strips of lemon peel and a squeeze of fresh juice provide a lively, citrusy kick. For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle, fiery finish that balances the other flavors.
The longer the olives marinate, the more complex and developed the flavors become. This allows the oil to absorb the fragrant essences of the herbs, garlic, and citrus, creating a delicious and versatile infused oil that is just as prized as the olives themselves.
This delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer is easy to serve and pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. Enjoy them on their own, toss them into a salad, or serve them warm with crusty bread for dipping and sopping up every last drop of the flavorful oil.
Ingredients
2 cup brine-cured olives
¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 shallot, minced
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley
1 garlic clove, minced
½ teaspoon salt
Preparation
Rinse olives thoroughly, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.
Toss olives with oil, shallot, lemon zest, parsley, garlic, and salt in a bowl. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Let the olives sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes