Marinated greek olives

Marinated Greek olives are a vibrant appetizer combining olives with lemon juice, olive oil, and aromatic herbs. This simple recipe allows the olives to absorb a Mediterranean flavor profile through marination.

11 Feb 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 430 min

Ingredients:

1/2 lemon
1/3 cup olives
1/3 cup olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 bay leaf

Marinated Greek olives are a simple yet flavorful appetizer or snack that's perfect for any occasion. By combining fresh olives with a mix of lemon, olive oil, and aromatic herbs, you can elevate their taste and impress your guests. Follow this easy recipe to create a delightful Mediterranean treat.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Lemon:
- Start by washing the lemon thoroughly. Using a knife, cut the lemon in half. You will use half of the lemon in this recipe.
- Squeeze the juice from the half lemon into a mixing bowl, ensuring to catch any seeds. You can discard the seeds or use a strainer to avoid seeds in the juice.

2. Mix Ingredients:
- In the bowl with the lemon juice, add 1/3 cup of olives. You can use a variety of olives such as Kalamata, green, or a mix, based on your preference.
- Pour in 1/3 cup of olive oil. The olive oil will help to marinate and infuse the flavors into the olives.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. This herb will add a distinct Mediterranean flavor to the marinade.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper for a hint of spice.
- Place 1 bay leaf into the mixture for an aromatic touch.

3. Stir and Combine:
- With a spoon, gently stir the ingredients together until the olives are well-coated with the mixture and the flavors are evenly distributed.

4. Marinate:
- Transfer the mixture into an airtight container or a jar.
- Let the olives marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. For more intense flavor, you can marinate them in the refrigerator for several hours or even overnight.

5. Serve:
- After marinating, your Greek olives are ready to serve. They can be enjoyed as a snack, part of a mezze platter, or as a flavorful addition to salads and other dishes.

6. Store:
- Any leftovers can be stored in the airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure the olives are submerged in the marinade to keep them fresh.

Marinated Greek olives are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a dish that's bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy these olives as an appetizer, snack, or as part of a larger spread, and don't forget to experiment with additional herbs and spices to make the recipe your own.

Marinated greek olives FAQ:

How long should I marinate the olives for the best flavor?

For optimal flavor, marinate the olives at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. For even better results, refrigerate and marinate them for several hours or overnight.

What types of olives can I use for this recipe?

You can use a variety of olives such as Kalamata, green olives, or a mix, depending on your preference.

How should I store leftover marinated olives?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, ensuring the olives are submerged in the marinade to maintain freshness.

Can I substitute fresh lemon juice for bottled lemon juice?

Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute, but fresh lemon juice typically offers a brighter flavor.

What if I don’t have dried oregano?

If you don't have dried oregano, Italian seasoning or fresh oregano can be used instead. Adjust the quantity to taste, as fresh herbs may be more potent.

Tips:

- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.

- Feel free to mix different types of olives to create a more complex taste profile.

- Let the olives marinate for at least 24 hours to fully absorb the flavors.

- You can add other herbs and spices, such as thyme or garlic, to customize the marinade to your preference.

- Store the marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 15kcal
Protein 0.22g
Carbohydrates 1.71g
Fiber 0.64g
Sugar 0.20g
Fat 11g

Marinated greek olives