Elevate your snacking experience with this irresistible Homemade Marinated Olive recipe! Bursting with Mediterranean flavors and vibrant colors, these olives are a delightful addition to any appetizer spread or antipasto platter. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a gourmet snack that’s perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying on a cozy night in. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s embark on a journey to flavor town!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed olives (such as Kalamata, green, and black)
– 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or basil)
Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Olives:** Start by draining the brine or liquid from the jar of olives. Rinse the olives under cold water to remove any excess saltiness.
2. **Mix the Marinade:** In a mixing bowl, combine thinly sliced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon zest (if using). Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
3. **Marinate the Olives:** Add the drained olives to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the olives gently to coat them evenly with the herbs and spices.
4. **Add Olive Oil and Vinegar:** Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the marinated olives. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that the olives are well coated with the oil and vinegar mixture.
5. **Season to Taste:** Taste the marinated olives and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Keep in mind that olives can vary in saltiness, so adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
6. **Let the Flavors Meld:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the marinated olives for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and infuse the olives with deliciousness.
7. **Serve and Garnish:** Before serving, give the marinated olives a final toss to redistribute the flavors. Transfer them to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color and freshness.
8. **Enjoy:** Serve your Homemade Marinated Olives as a standalone snack, alongside cheese and charcuterie, or as part of an antipasto platter. These flavorful olives are sure to impress your guests and elevate any occasion!
9. **Storage:** Store any leftover marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become, so feel free to make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.
There you have it – a simple yet sensational recipe for Homemade Marinated Olives that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a gourmet snack, these flavorful olives are the perfect choice. Give this recipe a try and elevate your snacking game to new heights!
