Baked lemon and herb olives

Baked lemon and herb olives feature infused olive oil with garlic, lemon zest, and a hint of chili heat, creating a flavorful appetizer. This easy recipe is perfect for entertaining or enhancing everyday meals.

16 Feb 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp lemon zest
2 bay leafs
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp allspice
3/4 cup olives

Baked lemon and herb olives are a delightful appetizer that combines the zestiness of lemon, the aromatic flavors of herbs, and the slight heat from chili powder. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for entertaining guests or adding a touch of sophistication to your everyday meals.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Zest the lemon until you have 2 tablespoons of zest.
- Measure out the olive oil, chili powder, and allspice.
- Rinse the olives if they are not already clean.

3. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, bay leaves, chili powder, and allspice. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly mixed.

4. Add the Olives:
Add the olives to the bowl and toss them in the seasoned oil mixture, making sure they are well-coated.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Transfer the seasoned olives to a small baking dish, spreading them out evenly.

6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the olives are heated through and fragrant. Stir halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.

7. Remove and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the olives to cool slightly before serving.

8. Serve:
Serve the baked lemon and herb olives warm or at room temperature. They make a perfect appetizer or snack, and can also be added to dishes for extra flavor.

Serve these baked lemon and herb olives warm, straight from the oven, for a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite. They make for an excellent snack on their own or a savory addition to cheese boards and tapas spreads. Enjoy the blend of herbs, spices, and citrus with each delicious olive.

Baked lemon and herb olives FAQ:

What is the ideal baking time for baked olives?

Bake the olives at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating and flavor infusion.

Can I substitute fresh herbs for the bay leaves in this recipe?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for additional flavor. However, adjust the amount to your taste, as fresh herbs can be more potent.

How should I store leftover baked olives?

Store any leftover baked olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

What types of olives can I use for this recipe?

You can use a variety of olives, such as Kalamata, green, or black olives. Choose pitted olives for convenience and a smoother texture.

What can I serve with baked olives?

Baked olives pair well with crusty bread, cheese platters, or as part of a Mediterranean appetizer spread. They also add a flavorful touch to salads and pasta.

Cooking Tips:

- Use a variety of olives for a more complex flavor profile.

- Make sure to pat the olives dry before cooking to achieve a better texture.

- Adjust the chili powder according to your taste preference for more or less heat.

- Consider adding other herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional layers of flavor.

- Stir the olives halfway through baking to ensure even coating and cooking.

Nutrition Facts

10 Servings
Calories 22kcal
Protein 0.25g
Carbohydrates 1.46g
Fiber 0.47g
Sugar 0.04g
Fat 8g

Baked lemon and herb olives