Easy Herb-Marinated Olives Recipe: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight

Welcome to this delightful easy Herb-marinated olives recipe, where bold flavors and aromatic herbs come together to create a delectable snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Originating from the sun-kissed Mediterranean region, marinated olives have been enjoyed for centuries, providing a burst of flavor to antipasto platters, gourmet salads, or enjoyed simply as a snack. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing for a picnic, or just craving something savory, homemade herb-marinated olives from scratch offer the unique ability to customize flavors to your liking. Plus, this vegan herb-marinated olives recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a healthy alternative to store-bought snacks filled with preservatives.

This detailed guide will walk you through making your own herb-marinated olives, from prep to presentation, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. With a total preparation time of just 15 minutes and the opportunity for the flavors to develop over time, you’ll have an exquisite treat ready to impress your family and friends.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 day (for best flavor)
Total Time: 1 day 15 minutes
Servings: 4–6 people

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

2 cups mixed olives (green, black, and Kalamata) – pitted
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic – thinly sliced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary – chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme – chopped
1 tablespoon fresh oregano – chopped
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon black pepper – freshly cracked

Possible Ingredient Swaps:

Use any combination of olives you prefer, such as Castelvetrano or Ligurian.
For a milder flavor, replace garlic with shallots or omit it entirely.
Swap fresh herbs for dried herbs if necessary, using a 1:3 ratio (1 tablespoon of dried equals 3 tablespoons of fresh).

Equipment List

Medium mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Glass jar or airtight container
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons
Measuring cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Olives: Start by selecting your olives—mix green, black, and Kalamata for variety. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any brine or packaging liquid. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
Chop the Herbs: Using a sharp knife and cutting board, finely chop the fresh rosemary, thyme, and oregano. The vibrant colors and fragrances of these herbs will transform your olives into a gourmet dish.
Combine the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, thinly sliced garlic, chopped herbs, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and cracked black pepper. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until the ingredients are well incorporated, and the garlic begins to infuse the oil with its aroma.
Add the Olives: Once your marinade is ready, gently add the rinsed olives to the bowl. Using a spatula, fold to coat the olives evenly with the marinade—ensure each olive is glistening in the fragrant mixture.
Transfer to Container: Carefully transfer the marinated olives into a glass jar or airtight container. Pour any remaining marinade over the olives, ensuring they are submerged in the flavorful oil. This helps to intensify the flavor during marination.
Seal and Refrigerate: Seal the jar or container tightly and place it in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, allow the olives to marinate for at least 24 hours, although a few days will enhance the flavors even more.
Serve and Enjoy: After marinating, remove the olives from the fridge. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to savor their full flavor. Serve in a decorative bowl, garnished with a sprig of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Special Notes

Storing: Keep the marinated olives in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will continue to deepen over time.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat marinated olives; they’re best served chilled or at room temperature.
Make-Ahead: This is a perfect make-ahead recipe! Prepare it one to three days in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully.
Troubleshooting: If you find the flame too intense or salty, add an additional splash of olive oil or even a touch of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy Variation: For added heat, stir in sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil, dill, or parsley for a unique twist.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted almonds or walnuts to add a delightful crunch.
Fruit Infusion: Add slices of citrus fruit, such as oranges or limes, for a sweet and tangy flavor boost.

Nutritional Information

Estimated per 1/4 cup serving:

Calories: 150
Protein: 1g
Fat: 15g (mostly healthy fats)
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare this dish, visualize the vibrant colors of the mixed olives glistening with olive oil, the flecks of green from fresh herbs, and the delicate slices of golden garlic. Imagine the aromatic scents wafting through your kitchen, inviting family and friends to come closer. Once marinated, the olives take on a glossy sheen, and the flavors deepen to create a mouthwatering experience. For best results, consider capturing images of the marinating process, before and after shots, and a final styled presentation to showcase your culinary creation.

Conclusion

Now that you have the secrets to making your own herb-marinated olives, it’s time to get your hands dirty in the kitchen! This easy, homemade recipe is a wonderful addition to any meal or party spread. Dive into this culinary journey and savor the rich flavors of the Mediterranean right from your home. Don’t forget to leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! Or better yet, share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish – we can’t wait to see your beautiful creations!

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