Marinated olives
This recipe for marinated olives combines garlic, olive oil, oregano, and bay leaf, infusing the olives with Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for snacking or entertaining, they can be marinated for an hour or up to two weeks for enhanced flavor.
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
2 garlic cloves2 cups olives
3/4 cup olive oil
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried oregano
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet delicious marinated olives recipe. Packed with Mediterranean flavors, these marinated olives are perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a quick snack. A delightful combination of garlic, olive oil, oregano, and bay leaf works together to transform ordinary olives into something truly special.
Instructions:
- Crush or lightly smash the garlic cloves with the flat side of a knife. This helps release their flavor into the marinade.
2. Heat the Oil:
- In a small saucepan, add the olive oil.
- Heat over a low flame until it is just warm. Do not let the oil come to a boil.
- Once the oil is warm, add the crushed garlic cloves and the bay leaf.
- Continue to heat over a low flame for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors of the garlic and bay leaf to infuse into the oil. Stir occasionally.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add the dried oregano to the oil mixture and stir well.
- While the oil is infusing, place the olives in a mixing bowl.
- If using fresh olives, make sure they are washed and drained well. You can also slightly score or prick the olives with a knife to help the marinade penetrate better.
- Pour the warm infused oil over the olives, making sure to include the garlic and bay leaf.
- Stir well to coat all the olives evenly with the seasoned oil.
- Allow the olives to sit at room temperature for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. For best results, transfer the olives and marinade to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will become.
- Before serving, remove the olives from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature. This usually takes about 30 minutes.
- Serve in a bowl with some of the marinated oil and enjoy as an appetizer or addition to salads and charcuterie boards.
- Store any leftover marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to two weeks.
Your marinated olives are now ready to enjoy! This easy recipe brings out the best in the ingredients, creating a flavorful and aromatic treat that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Whether you're serving them at a gathering or savoring them on your own, these marinated olives are sure to impress.
Marinated olives FAQ:
For the best flavor, marinate the olives for at least 24 hours. However, allowing them to marinate for just one hour at room temperature is sufficient for some flavor.
Store leftover marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Yes, you can use any mixture of olives, such as green, black, or kalamata. Choose your favorite varieties for the best taste.
Heating the olive oil is recommended as it helps to infuse the flavors of the garlic and bay leaf into the oil. Mixing it cold may not provide the same depth of flavor.
Yes, you can substitute dried oregano with other herbs like thyme or rosemary, but keep in mind that it will slightly alter the flavor profile of the marinade.
Tips:
- For best results, use a mix of different types of olives to add a variety of flavors and textures.
- Feel free to add more herbs and spices to suit your taste. Red pepper flakes, rosemary, or lemon zest can add an extra kick.
- Allow the olives to marinate for at least 24 hours, but they taste even better after a few days.
- Store the marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Remember to bring them to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition per serving
8 ServingsCalories 70kcal
Protein 0.59g
Carbohydrates 4.12g
Fiber 1.21g
Sugar 0.03g
Fat 30g
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