Herbed Olives
If you’re searching for a quick and flavorful appetizer or snack that can elevate your cheese board or charcuterie platter, look no further than herbed olives. This recipe brings together a medley of olives, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a deliciously tangy and savory treat. Perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying on a quiet evening, these herbed olives are a delightful addition to any table. Let’s dive into how to make this simple yet impressive dish!
Why You’ll Keep Making It
Herbed olives are a versatile dish that you can customize to your taste. Their vibrant flavors make them a crowd-pleaser, and once you discover how easy they are to prepare, you’ll find yourself making them on repeat. Not only do they work wonderfully as an appetizer, but they can also be tossed into salads, served alongside grilled meats, or even enjoyed straight from the jar. The best part? You can make a big batch and let the flavors develop over time, ensuring each bite is packed with that irresistible herbaceous goodness.
Ingredient Notes
- Olives: Choose your favorite type, such as Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or green olives. Each variety brings its own unique taste and texture.
- Rosemary: Fresh rosemary is a must for its aromatic qualities. Chopping it releases more flavor.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme pairs beautifully with rosemary and adds a subtle earthiness.
- Coriander seeds: These seeds provide a citrusy warmth that complements the olives perfectly.
- Peppercorns: Black or mixed peppercorns add a gentle heat and complexity to the dish.
- Fennel seeds: The slight anise flavor from fennel adds depth to the herb blend.
- Olive oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse the oil with a wonderful aroma and taste.
- Bay leaves: These leaves add a subtle layer of flavor as they infuse into the oil.
- Red pepper flakes: Adjust the amount to your heat preference; they add a nice kick.
- Orange or lemon zest: This adds a bright, citrusy note that balances the flavors.
- Salt: Use to taste; it enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Setup & Equipment
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the herbs and spices.
- Glass Jar or Container: To store the herbed olives once they are prepared.
- Kettle or Saucepan: For gently heating the olive oil and infusing the flavors.
- Cutting Board & Knife: For chopping the herbs and garlic.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
From Start to Finish: Herbed Olives
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse the olives under cold water and drain them thoroughly. This helps to remove excess brine and enhances the flavors of the herbs.
Step 2: Chop the Herbs
Using a sharp knife, chop the rosemary and thyme, discarding the stems. Aim for a fine chop to maximize the herbal flavor that will infuse into the olives.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the coriander seeds, peppercorns, and fennel seeds. Toast them for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them; shaking the pan occasionally helps to prevent this.
Step 4: Heat the Olive Oil
In a saucepan, combine the olive oil, sliced garlic, bay leaves, red pepper flakes, and the toasted spices. Heat over low heat for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Do not let it boil; the goal is to infuse, not cook.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a mixing bowl or large jar, combine the olives, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, and strips of orange or lemon zest. Pour the warm infused oil over the olives, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 6: Season and Store
Season with salt to taste, give everything a good stir, and let it cool. Once cooled, cover the jar or container and refrigerate. Let the olives marinate for at least 24 hours for the best flavor, although they can be enjoyed sooner.
Dietary Swaps & Alternatives
- For a lower-fat version, consider using less olive oil; just enough to coat the olives will work.
- If you’re avoiding garlic, feel free to omit it or substitute with garlic powder for a milder flavor.
- For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced fresh chili peppers instead of red pepper flakes.
- For a sweeter note, include a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup along with the spices.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
- Overheating the olive oil can lead to a bitter taste. Always use low heat for infusing the oil.
- Not letting the olives marinate long enough means the flavors won’t have time to develop. Aim for at least 24 hours.
- Using stale or old spices can diminish the overall flavor. Make sure your spices are fresh for the best results.
- Be cautious with the salt; always start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Leftover herbed olives can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. The flavors will continue to deepen over time, making them even more delicious. You can also use them in various dishes, such as salads, pasta, or as a topping for pizzas. For meal prep, make a large batch at the beginning of the week to have on hand whenever you need a quick snack or appetizer.
FAQ
Can I use different types of olives for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix different varieties of olives to find your favorite combination. Each type brings its unique flavor and texture.
How should I serve herbed olives?
Herbed olives are great served at room temperature alongside cheese, crackers, or crusty bread. They also work well as a topping for salads or pizzas.
How long do herbed olives last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, herbed olives can last up to two weeks. The flavors will intensify over time.
Can I make herbed olives ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, herbed olives taste better when made in advance. Prepare them a day or two before you plan to serve them for the best flavor.
More from the Kitchen
Final Bite
Herbed olives are a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. With just a few fresh herbs, spices, and olives, you can craft a dish that is not only delicious but also versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these herbed olives will surely impress. So grab your ingredients, gather your friends, and let the flavors take you on a Mediterranean adventure!
Herbed Olives
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse the olives under cold water and drain them thoroughly.
- Using a sharp knife, chop the rosemary and thyme, discarding the stems.
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the coriander seeds, peppercorns, and fennel seeds. Toast them for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- In a saucepan, combine the olive oil, sliced garlic, bay leaves, red pepper flakes, and the toasted spices. Heat over low heat for about 5-10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl or large jar, combine the olives, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, and strips of orange or lemon zest. Pour the warm infused oil over the olives.
- Season with salt to taste, give everything a good stir, and let it cool. Once cooled, cover the jar and refrigerate.
Notes
- Let the olives marinate for at least 24 hours for the best flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to two weeks.
- Feel free to mix different types of olives for a unique flavor.
