Mixed Olives
A simple, elegant mix of briny Kalamata and buttery Castelvetrano olives, gently warmed with garlic, rosemary, and a hint of lemon. The perfect low-carb, healthy-fat snack ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the aromatics.
Thinly slice the garlic cloves. Using a zester or fine grater, remove the zest from the lemon.
TIPBe careful to only get the yellow part of the lemon peel, as the white pith underneath can be bitter.Warm the oil and aromatics.
- Heat the olive oil in a small skillet or saucepan over low-medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic, rosemary sprig, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook gently for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
TIPUsing low heat infuses the oil with flavor without burning the garlic, which can make it taste harsh.Add the olives and warm through.
- Add the Kalamata and Castelvetrano olives to the skillet.
- Stir to coat them evenly with the flavored oil.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the olives are just warmed through.
Finish with lemon zest and pepper.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon zest and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
Serve warm.
Transfer the warm mixed olives to a serving bowl. They are best enjoyed warm but are also delicious at room temperature.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For convenience, buy olives that are already pitted.
- 2Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or oregano.
- 3A strip of orange peel added with the rosemary can add a lovely citrus note.
- 4These olives can be made a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently rewarm or bring to room temperature before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Quick
For a no-cook version, simply toss all the ingredients together in a bowl and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
healthyHealthy
This recipe is already quite healthy. To reduce sodium, look for low-sodium olives or rinse them well before using.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor that's more suitable for children.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Olives are packed with monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which is linked to reduced inflammation and improved heart health.
Source of Antioxidants
Olives contain powerful antioxidants, such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which help protect the body's cells from damage.
Low-Carb and Paleo-Friendly
As a fruit that's high in fat and low in carbs, olives are a perfect snack for those following low-carb, keto, or paleo diets.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, mixed olives are very healthy. They are an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. They also contain antioxidants and are naturally low in carbohydrates.