Marinated Olives(International)
A flavorful Mediterranean appetizer featuring briny Kalamata olives infused with aromatic dried herbs and orange zest, perfect for snacking or adding a savory touch to dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread olives between layers of paper towels and blot dry to remove most of the brine.
- Mix together the olives, dried herbs, and orange zest in a bowl.
- Loosely pack the mixture into a glass jar.
- Lay the herb sprigs on top of the olives.
- Add olive oil to cover the olives completely.
- Cover tightly and store for 2 days to 1 week.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your marinated olives, consider adding a splash of red wine vinegar or a few cloves of crushed garlic. You can also substitute Kalamata olives with green olives for a different taste. For a zesty twist, add some lemon zest along with the orange zest. If you prefer a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes to the herb mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These marinated olives make a perfect appetizer or snack, ideal for Mediterranean recipes. Serve them alongside crusty bread or a cheese platter. They pair beautifully with Lamb On The Grill or can be tossed into a salad for added flavor. For a refreshing touch, consider serving them with a side of Basil Mayonnaise for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store the marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to two weeks, with the flavors continuing to develop over time. If you want to serve them warm, take them out of the fridge about an hour before serving to allow them to come to room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Olives(International) contains roughly 55 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones in this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried, but you'll need to use a larger quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated. For example, use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried. Just chop them finely and mix them in with the olives.
How long do the marinated olives need to sit before they are ready to eat?
The olives should marinate for at least 2 days to allow the flavors to meld, but they can be stored for up to 1 week. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will become, so feel free to experiment with the timing based on your taste preference.
Can I add other ingredients to the marinade?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your marinated olives by adding ingredients like lemon slices, anchovies, or sun-dried tomatoes. These additions can enhance the overall flavor and create a more complex taste profile, perfect for your next gathering.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).