Marinated Olives
A classic Mediterranean appetizer, these warm marinated olives are steeped in a fragrant infusion of garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, and bright lemon zest. Incredibly simple to make in just 10 minutes, they are the perfect elegant starter for any gathering.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Infuse the Oil
- b.In a small saucepan or skillet, combine the extra virgin olive oil, smashed garlic cloves, rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, and lemon zest strips.
- c.Warm over low heat for 3-4 minutes. The oil should be gently simmering, not boiling.
- d.Swirl the pan occasionally until the garlic is fragrant and the herbs are aromatic. Do not let the garlic brown, as it will become bitter.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Warm the Olives
- b.Add the mixed olives to the saucepan with the infused oil.
- c.Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and freshly ground black pepper.
- d.Stir gently to coat all the olives evenly.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Heat, Rest, and Serve
- b.Continue to heat over low for another 1-2 minutes, just until the olives are warmed through.
- c.Remove the pan from the heat and let the olives sit in the warm oil for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- d.Transfer the olives and all the fragrant oil to a serving bowl. Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use a high-quality, fruity extra virgin olive oil.
- 2A mix of olives provides a variety of flavors and textures. Buttery Castelvetrano, briny Kalamata, and mild Cerignola are excellent choices.
- 3Serve with crusty bread, focaccia, or a cheese board. The leftover infused oil is delicious for dipping.
- 4To make ahead, prepare the olives and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Gently reheat on the stove or serve at room temperature.
Adapt it for your goals.
Citrus Twist
Substitute the lemon zest with wide strips of orange zest for a slightly sweeter, warmer citrus note.
HerbaceousHerbaceous
Add a bay leaf along with the other herbs for a deeper, more complex aromatic flavor.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
For more heat, add a whole dried chili pepper (like a chili de árbol) to the oil along with the garlic.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Stir in a quarter cup of toasted, slivered almonds just before serving for added texture and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Heart-Healthy Fats
Both olives and extra virgin olive oil 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 like vitamin E and polyphenols. The garlic and herbs in the marinade also contribute antioxidant compounds that help protect the body's cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving (about 1/2 cup) of these marinated olives contains approximately 150-180 calories, primarily from the healthy fats in the olives and olive oil.