Description
Elevate your appetizer game with these incredibly simple yet sophisticated Herb Marinated Olives. Bursting with fragrant herbs and zesty citrus, they transform ordinary olives into a gourmet treat that will have everyone reaching for more.
Ingredients
1 cup medium pitted green olives (6 oz)
1 cup medium pitted black olives (6 oz)
1 teaspoon whole fennel seeds
1 medium garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary (or thyme)
2 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (basil or tarragon)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1–2 tablespoon lemon juice
3 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Heat the fennel seeds in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until they become fragrant.
2. Reduce the heat to low and add the olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Warm everything together until the oil is beautifully infused, which takes about eight minutes.
3. Pour the warm oil mixture over the olives and give them a good stir.
4. Mix in the parsley and salt. You can serve them immediately, but letting them marinate for at least two hours will give you a much richer flavor.
5. As an alternative method, crush the fennel seeds in a mortar and pestle, work the garlic in to make a paste, and then stir in the rest of the ingredients. Toss the olives in this marinade and let them sit for several hours.
6. For storage, place the olives in an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for up to one week.
Notes
It might seem like a small step, but thoroughly drying your olives is key. Excess water can dilute the marinade and prevent the flavors from properly infusing.
While dried herbs *can* be used in a pinch, fresh herbs truly make a difference in the vibrant aroma and flavor of marinated olives. The fragrance is really what sets these apart.
Choose a jar or container that allows the olives to mingle comfortably in the oil, rather than being packed in too tightly. This ensures even marination.
The amount of chili flakes can be adjusted based on your heat preference. Start with a small pinch and add more if you like a spicier kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Mediterranean