Marinated green olives

Marinated green olives are a simple yet flavorful appetizer made by infusing olives in a mixture of garlic, chili peppers, and orange zest. This recipe combines rich and tangy flavors, perfect for enhancing any snack or gathering.

08 Feb 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 cups olives
1 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
3 bay leafs
2 red hot chili peppers
2 tbsp orange zest

Marinated green olives are a delightful and easy-to-prepare appetizer or snack that's perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic, bay leafs, and red hot chili peppers with the zest of oranges and the smoothness of olive oil to create an irresistible treat. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply want a tasty snack, these marinated olives are sure to impress.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse and drain the green olives, and set them aside in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Peel and lightly crush the garlic cloves to release their flavor.
- Wash the red hot chili peppers, then slice them into thin rings. Be sure to remove the seeds if you prefer a milder heat.
- Using a fine grater, zest the orange to collect 2 tablespoons of orange zest.

2. Combine the Ingredients:
- In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, crushed garlic cloves, bay leaves, and sliced chili peppers.
- Warm the mixture over low heat for about 3-5 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the oil is infused with the flavors. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.

3. Mix the Olives:
- Pour the infused oil mixture over the olives in the mixing bowl.
- Add the orange zest to the bowl.

4. Marinate the Olives:
- Stir the olives well to ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Transfer the olives and marinade to a sterilized jar or airtight container.
- Seal the jar or container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, let the olives marinate for up to a week.

5. Serve:
- Before serving, let the marinated olives come to room temperature to fully enjoy their flavors.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the olives from the jar, and discard the bay leaves before serving.

Enjoy your homemade marinated green olives as an appetizer, a snack, or even as a flavorful addition to salads and dishes. With their vibrant combination of flavors, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique variation.

Marinated green olives FAQ:

How long should I marinate the olives?

For optimal flavor, marinate the olives for at least 24 hours. However, if possible, let them sit for up to a week to enhance the taste further.

Can I use different types of olives for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various types of green olives, such as Castelvetrano or Kalamata. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly based on the type of olives used.

What is the best way to store marinated olives?

Store the marinated olives in an airtight container or a sterilized jar in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?

To adjust the spice level, you can either add more or fewer chili peppers, or remove the seeds for a milder flavor. Alternatively, for a different spice profile, you might try using crushed red pepper flakes.

What can I serve with marinated olives?

Marinated olives pair well with a variety of appetizers such as cheese platters, charcuterie boards, or as part of Mediterranean meze alongside bread, hummus, and roasted vegetables.

Tips:

- Choose Quality Ingredients: For best results, use high-quality olives and extra virgin olive oil. The quality of the ingredients will significantly impact the final taste.

- Marinating Time: Allow your olives to marinate for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more intense the flavors will become.

- Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of red hot chili peppers or remove the seeds. Conversely, you can add more if you love extra heat.

- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic cloves and freshly grated orange zest will give the best flavor. Pre-packaged or pre-ground options may not provide the same intensity of taste.

- Stir Occasionally: During the marination process, occasionally stir or shake the container to ensure all the olives soak up the marinade evenly.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 140kcal
Protein 1.44g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 2.18g
Sugar 1.08g
Fat 70g

Marinated green olives