Spiced Olives
Spiced olives offer a bold, flavorful snack with a hint of heat and herbs, perfect for entertaining or as a savory appetizer for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the olives, discarding the juice, and return them to the jar.
- In a small bowl, combine tomato juice, olive oil, crushed red pepper, minced garlic, dried basil, and oregano.
- Pour the mixture over the olives in the jar.
- Close the jar and refrigerate for 3 to 10 days, turning the jar daily.
- Drain the olives before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using a mix of different stuffed olives such as garlic or pimento. If you prefer less heat, reduce the crushed red pepper. Fresh herbs can also be used instead of dried; just double the amount. Remember to turn the jar daily to evenly distribute the flavors. This recipe is adaptable, making it perfect for Mediterranean recipes enthusiasts.
Serving Suggestions
These spiced olives make a delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for entertaining. They pair beautifully with a refreshing Sangria Wine Cooler or alongside a platter of cheeses and cured meats. Consider serving them with crusty bread or alongside Green Beans, Red Peppers And Potatoes for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in the sealed jar for up to 10 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time. If you have a large batch, you can freeze the olives in an airtight container, but for best flavor, enjoy them fresh. No need to reheat; serve them chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Olives contains roughly 223 calories, with 7g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (137% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (104% of the Daily Value), and calcium (83% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 29g 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
How long should I marinate the olives?
You can marinate the olives for anywhere from 3 to 10 days, depending on how intense you want the flavors. The longer they sit, the more robust their taste will be. Just remember to turn the jar daily to help the flavors meld.
Can I use different types of olives?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different types of olives, such as kalamata, green, or even orange-stuffed ones. Each type will impart its unique flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
What can I serve with these olives?
These spiced olives are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. They can be served alongside a cheese platter, with crackers, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze spread. You could also enjoy them with a side of Bean Soup(Fassoulatha) for a hearty meal.
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).