Marinated olives

Marinated olives are a savory and zesty appetizer infused with garlic, chili peppers, and rosemary. This simple recipe combines olives with a flavorful olive oil and vinegar marinade, perfect for enhancing any gathering.

19 Nov 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2/3 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
2 red hot chili peppers
2 tbsp rosemary
1 cup olives
1/3 cup vinegar

Marinated olives are a delicious and easy appetizer or snack that can add a burst of flavor to any meal or gathering. By infusing olives with garlic, chili peppers, rosemary, and a blend of olive oil and vinegar, you create a savory and zesty treat that is sure to impress your guests. Here's a simple recipe to help you make your own marinated olives at home.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, sliced red hot chili peppers, and chopped rosemary. Mix well to evenly distribute all the ingredients.

2. Combine with Olives:
- Add the olives to the marinade mixture. Gently stir or toss the olives until they are well-coated with the oil and seasoning blend.

3. Add the Vinegar:
- Pour the vinegar over the olives and give the mixture one final stir to make sure the vinegar is evenly distributed.

4. Marinate:
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. For best results, let the olives marinate overnight or up to 24 hours.

5. Serve:
- Before serving, allow the olives to come to room temperature. This helps enhance the flavors. You may wish to give them a gentle stir once more.

6. Storage:
- Store any leftover marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 1 week.

Marinated olives are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own, as part of an antipasto platter, or as a delicious addition to salads and other dishes. By following this straightforward recipe, you'll have a flavorful, homemade snack ready in no time. Enjoy the rich, aromatic blend of flavors, and don't hesitate to experiment with other herbs and spices to make this recipe your own.

Marinated olives FAQ:

How long should I marinate the olives?

For optimal flavor, marinate the olives for at least 4 hours. However, letting them sit overnight or up to 24 hours is recommended for the best results.

What kind of olives can I use for this recipe?

You can use a variety of olives, such as Kalamata, green olives, or mixed olives. The type you choose will affect the flavor profile, so select your favorites.

How should I store leftover marinated olives?

Store any leftover marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 1 week.

Can I substitute the vinegar in the marinade?

Yes, you can substitute the vinegar with lemon juice or a different type of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar, depending on your flavor preference.

What if my olives are too salty after marinating?

If the olives taste too salty, you can rinse them briefly under cold water before marinating or use less salty olives in your recipe. Adjusting the amount of salt in the marinade can also help.

Tips:

- Choose a Mix of Olive Varieties: Using a combination of green and black olives can add depth and variety to your marinated olives.

- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, chili peppers, and rosemary will impart the best flavor.

- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili pepper or remove the seeds before adding them.

- Allow Time to Marinate: For the best flavor, let the olives marinate for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator before serving.

- Store Properly: Keep your marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to two weeks.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 55kcal
Protein 0.64g
Carbohydrates 3.89g
Fiber 0.84g
Sugar 0.77g
Fat 30g

Marinated olives