Marinated green & black olives

Marinated green and black olives are a flavourful appetizer made with fresh thyme, lemon zest, garlic, and black pepper. This simple recipe allows the olives to soak in a zesty marinade, enhancing their taste for any occasion.

28 Dec 2025
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 245 min

Ingredients:

1 cup olives
1 tbsp fresh thyme
2 tbsp lemon zest
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp black pepper
Marinated green & black olives

Marinated green & black olives are a simple yet delicious appetizer or snack that you can effortlessly prepare at home. This recipe combines a mix of green and black olives with fresh thyme, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, and black pepper to create a flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Olives:
- Rinse 1 cup of mixed green and black olives under cold water to remove any brine. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Marinade Preparation:
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme, 2 tablespoons of lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Add 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Marinate the Olives:
- Add the olives to the bowl containing the marinade. Stir until all the olives are evenly coated with the marinade.
4. Resting Time:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the olives to an airtight container. Place the marinated olives in the refrigerator and let them marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
5. Serving:
- Before serving, allow the marinated olives to come to room temperature to enhance their flavors. Stir the olives once more to distribute the marinade evenly.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve as an appetizer, snack, or as part of a charcuterie board.

Enjoy your marinated green & black olives as a delightful addition to your appetizer spread, or simply as a tasty snack. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes and can even be customized with additional herbs and spices to suit your personal taste. Bon appétit!

Marinated green & black olives FAQ:

How long should I marinate the olives for maximum flavor?

For the best flavor, marinate the olives for at least 4 hours, but overnight is recommended to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Can I use other types of olives for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with other olive varieties like Kalamata or Castelvetrano, but keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.

What's the best way to store leftover marinated olives?

Store the marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to one week if properly stored.

What can I substitute for fresh thyme if I don’t have any?

You can use dried thyme or substitute with other herbs like oregano or rosemary, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How can I tell when the olives are done marinating?

The olives will be done marinating when they have absorbed the flavors of the marinade, which is typically noticeable after 4 hours, with peak flavor achieved overnight.

Tips:

- For the best flavor, use high-quality, fresh ingredients.

- Let the olives marinate for at least a few hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, to create a unique flavor profile.

- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

- Serve the marinated olives with crusty bread or crackers for a simple yet elegant appetizer.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 50kcal
Protein 0.55g
Carbohydrates 2.81g
Fiber 1.07g
Sugar 0.01g
Fat 6g

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