Marinated Mixed Olives
A vibrant mix of Kalamata and green olives marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs. This simple, no-cook side dish brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor to any meal and is ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
Combine the olives and aromatics.
In a medium bowl, combine the pitted Kalamata and green olives. Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Add liquids and mix well.
Squeeze the juice from half of the lemon over the olives. Pour in the olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together until the olives are evenly coated.
TIPTaste and add more lemon juice or salt if needed, but be careful as the olives are already briny.Let the olives marinate.
Cover the bowl and let the olives sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. For best results, you can let them marinate for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator.
TIPIf marinating in the fridge, bring the olives back to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before serving, as olive oil can solidify when cold.Serve and enjoy.
Give the olives one final stir and serve them in a small bowl as a side dish or appetizer.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a mix of your favorite olives for more complex flavor and texture. Castelvetrano, Cerignola, or Picholine are great choices.
- 2For a fresher flavor, you can substitute dried oregano with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or basil.
- 3A vegetable peeler is a great tool for getting long, beautiful strips of lemon zest without the bitter white pith.
- 4These marinated olives can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- 5To make it a more substantial appetizer, serve with feta cheese cubes and crusty bread for dipping in the flavored oil.
Adapt it for your goals.
Quick
If you're short on time, skip the 30-minute marination. The olives will still be delicious, just with a slightly less infused flavor.
high proteinHigh protein
Add 1/2 cup of cubed firm feta cheese or small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) to the mix for a protein boost.
healthyHealthy
To reduce the calorie count, reduce the olive oil to 3 tablespoons. The olives will be less coated but still flavorful.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Both olives and olive oil are excellent sources of monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
Source of Antioxidants
Olives contain powerful antioxidants, including vitamin E and polyphenols, which help protect the body's cells from damage by free radicals.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, marinated olives are a healthy choice. They are rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which is linked to heart health. They also provide antioxidants and vitamin E. The main consideration is their sodium content, so enjoy them in moderation.
