If you’re looking for a simple yet spectacular appetizer that bursts with flavor, let me introduce you to the Marinated Olives with Herbs, Garlic & Citrus Recipe. This delightful mix of green and black olives soaked in a fragrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and zesty citrus transforms humble olives into an irresistible snack or tapas staple. It’s effortless to prepare, refreshingly vibrant, and perfect for sharing with friends or adding elegance to your next gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to unlocking the full character of the Marinated Olives with Herbs, Garlic & Citrus Recipe. Each component offers a unique touch, whether it’s the fragrant aroma of fresh herbs, the bright pop of citrus zest, or the richness of olive oil that ties everything together perfectly.
- 2 cups mixed olives: Choose a mix of green and black for a pleasing variety of textures and flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced: Fresh garlic adds a bold, savory punch that marinates beautifully.
- Zest of 1 orange or lemon: Citrus zest brings a lively, aromatic brightness that balances the richness of the olives.
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary: These herbs infuse the olives with earthy, fragrant notes essential to an authentic taste experience.
- ¼ cup olive oil: High-quality olive oil protects the olives while enhancing their natural flavors with silky depth.
How to Make Marinated Olives with Herbs, Garlic & Citrus Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by placing your mixed olives into a clean jar or bowl. Add the sliced garlic, fresh herb of choice, citrus zest, and pour the olive oil over everything. This combination creates the perfect environment for the flavors to mingle and develop.
Step 2: Marinate to Perfection
Cover your container tightly and let the olives marinate for at least 2 hours at room temperature. For a more intense infusion of flavor, allow them to stay overnight in the refrigerator. The longer marination allows the garlic, herbs, and citrus to impart their essence deeply into every olive.
Step 3: Serve at Room Temperature
Before serving, take the olives out of the fridge and bring them to room temperature. This step ensures the olive oil softens up a bit and the flavors become vivid and well-rounded on the palate.
How to Serve Marinated Olives with Herbs, Garlic & Citrus Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a touch of freshly ground black pepper or a few extra herb sprigs over the olives just before serving. A light drizzle of additional olive oil can add an appealing sheen and richer mouthfeel that elevates the presentation.
Side Dishes
These marinated olives pair marvelously alongside crusty artisan bread, a platter of cured meats, or a fresh cheese board. Their vibrant herbal and citrus notes cut through richer flavors, making them a bright contrast on the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming appetizer setup, serve the olives in a rustic ceramic bowl accompanied by small forks or toothpicks for easy snacking. Alternatively, layer them over toasted crostini with a sliver of fresh cheese for an irresistible bite-sized treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Marinated Olives with Herbs, Garlic & Citrus Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld together, usually lasting up to a week without compromising taste or texture.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe as the texture of olives can become mushy, and the fresh herbs and citrus zest degrade over time. For best results, enjoy them fresh or refrigerated only.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat marinated olives. Simply bring them back to room temperature for optimum flavor and texture before serving. Warming them can cause the olive oil to lose its silky quality.
FAQs
Can I use different types of olives in this recipe?
Absolutely! Mixing varieties like Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or Ligurian olives gives your marinated dish complexity and visual appeal. Just choose olives that you enjoy eating on their own.
How long should I marinate the olives?
A minimum of 2 hours is needed to impart the key flavors, but marinating overnight or up to 24 hours enhances the depth and richness significantly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this entire recipe is 100% vegan-friendly, relying solely on plant-based ingredients that deliver incredible flavor.
Can I substitute the fresh herbs?
Feel free to experiment. Fresh rosemary or thyme works beautifully, but you can also try oregano, basil, or a blend depending on your mood and pantry.
What’s the best way to serve these olives for a party?
Serve them at room temperature in a beautiful bowl with toothpicks or small spoons for easy sharing. Pairing with crusty bread, cheeses, or charcuterie makes a fantastic tapas spread.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Marinated Olives with Herbs, Garlic & Citrus Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed olives without the vibrant, fragrant punch of fresh herbs, citrus, and garlic. It’s such an easy, no-cook recipe that instantly elevates your appetizer game and brings a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to your table. Give it a go and watch it become a new favorite in your collection of go-to snacks!
Print
Marinated Olives with Herbs, Garlic & Citrus Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A simple and flavorful Spanish tapas recipe featuring green and black olives marinated with fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus. This easy no-cook dish is perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer and delivers bright, aromatic notes with every bite.
Ingredients
Olives
- 2 cups mixed olives (green and black)
Marinade
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced
- Zest of 1 orange or lemon
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary
- ¼ cup olive oil
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a clean jar or bowl, add 2 cups mixed olives, sliced garlic cloves, citrus zest, fresh thyme or rosemary, and olive oil. Mix well to ensure all olives are coated with the marinade.
- Marinate: Cover the jar or bowl and let the olives marinate for at least 2 hours to develop flavor. For best results, refrigerate and marinate overnight to enhance the infusion of herbs and citrus.
- Serve: Allow the olives to come to room temperature before serving to fully appreciate the aromatic flavors of the marinade. Enjoy as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Use pitted olives for easier eating and to avoid biting into pits.
- The marinated olives can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, allowing the flavors to deepen over time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Spanish
