Warm dressed olives

Warm dressed olives combine the rich flavors of olives, capers, garlic, and lemon zest for a simple yet elegant appetizer. This dish is quickly prepared on the stovetop, making it ideal for entertaining.

17 Nov 2025
Cook time 9 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp capers
2 tbsp lemon zest
3/4 cup olives
1 stalk

Warm dressed olives are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer or snack that brings together the rich flavors of olives, capers, garlic, and lemon zest. This simple yet sophisticated recipe is perfect for adding a touch of Mediterranean flair to your table and is sure to impress your guests.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Drain and rinse the capers.
- Zest a lemon until you have 2 tablespoons of lemon zest.
- Finely chop the celery stalk.

2. Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a medium-sized skillet, heat the 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat.

3. Cook the Garlic and Capers:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in the capers and cook for another minute, allowing them to sizzle and infuse the oil with their flavor.

4. Add the Lemon Zest and Celery:
- Mix in the 2 tablespoons of lemon zest and the finely chopped celery. Stir well to combine with the garlic and caper mixture. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the celery starts to soften.

5. Incorporate the Olives:
- Add the 3/4 cup of olives to the skillet. Stir to ensure the olives are well coated with the dressing. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the olives are warmed through.

6. Serve:
- Transfer the warm dressed olives to a serving dish. You can serve them immediately for the best flavor.

7. Optional Garnish:
- Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, if desired.

Making warm dressed olives is an excellent way to elevate a simple ingredient into a flavorful and aromatic dish. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delightful appetizer that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy this dish with friends and family, and revel in the vibrant flavors it brings to your table.

Warm dressed olives FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover warm dressed olives?

Store leftover warm dressed olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Can I use different types of olives for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a variety of olives such as green, black, Kalamata, or Castelvetrano. Just ensure they are pitted and drained before using.

How can I tell when the garlic is done cooking?

Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but is still a light golden color. Avoid browning, as burnt garlic can become bitter.

What can I substitute for capers if I don't have any?

If you don't have capers, you can use chopped green olives or pickles as a substitute for a similar tangy flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the olives are best served warm, you can prepare the dressing (olive oil, garlic, capers, and lemon zest) in advance and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up and add the olives before serving.

Tips:

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

- Feel free to experiment with different varieties of olives to find your favorite combination.

- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice.

- Serve the warm dressed olives with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful oil.

- You can make this dish ahead of time and gently reheat just before serving.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 30kcal
Protein 0.43g
Carbohydrates 2.17g
Fiber 0.74g
Sugar 0.24g
Fat 10g

Warm dressed olives