Warm marinated olives

Warm marinated olives combine the robust flavors of citrus, herbs, and spices for a delightful appetizer. This easy recipe features olives infused with lemon zest, rosemary, garlic, and cumin, heated gently for a fragrant and flavorful snack.

06 Dec 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 4335 min

Ingredients:

1/3 cup olives
2 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp rosemary
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp ground cumin

If you're looking to elevate your appetizer game, warm marinated olives are a fantastic option. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also pack a flavor punch with their mix of citrus, herbs, and spices. This recipe combines olives with lemon zest, rosemary, garlic, and cumin, creating a warm, fragrant, and delicious snack that's perfect for any gathering.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse and drain the olives if they are packed in brine.
- Finely grate the lemon zest.
- Strip the rosemary leaves from the stems and finely chop them if using fresh.
- Peel and slice the garlic cloves thinly.

2. Combine the Ingredients:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the olives, lemon zest, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, and ground cumin. Toss everything together to ensure the olives are evenly coated with the marinade.

3. Marinate the Olives:
- Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If you have more time, you can let them marinate longer for a stronger infusion of flavors.

4. Heat the Olives:
- When ready to serve, transfer the marinated olive mixture to a small saucepan.
- Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-10 minutes until the olives are warm and the garlic is softened. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.

5. Serve:
- Transfer the warmed olives to a serving dish along with the infused oil and aromatics.
- Serve immediately as a warm appetizer or side dish. They are perfect served with crusty bread, a cheese platter, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Warm marinated olives are a simple yet sophisticated appetizer that can complement any meal or stand-alone at gatherings. With minimal ingredients and effort, you’ll impress your guests with a rich blend of flavors and aromas. Enjoy this delightful dish as you soak in the compliments!

Warm marinated olives FAQ:

How long should I heat the olives for?

Warm the marinated olive mixture over low to medium heat for about 5-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the olives are warm and the garlic is softened, but be careful not to let the garlic burn.

Can I make these olives in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and let it marinate for longer at room temperature or in the refrigerator. If chilled, bring them back to room temperature before heating.

What type of olives should I use for this recipe?

You can use any variety of olives, such as Kalamata, green olives, or a mix of both. Just make sure they are good-quality olives for the best flavor.

Can I substitute fresh rosemary with dried rosemary?

Yes, you can substitute fresh rosemary with dried rosemary. Use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. One teaspoon of dried rosemary should suffice.

How should I store leftover marinated olives?

Store any leftover marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure to include the oil and herbs for maximum flavor.

Tips:

- Use a mix of different types of olives (like Kalamata, Castelvetrano, and green olives) for a variety of flavors and textures.

- Fresh rosemary can be substituted with dried rosemary if needed, but reduce the quantity to 1 tbsp.

- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

- Serve the warm olives with crusty bread for a more substantial appetizer.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 13kcal
Protein 0.20g
Carbohydrates 0.95g
Fiber 0.21g
Sugar 0.02g
Fat 4.50g

Warm marinated olives