Homemade marinated green olives, a mediterranean delight, infused with garlic, herbs, and spices — an easy, flavourful appetizer perfect for any platter or snack table.
There’s something irresistible about a bowl of marinated olives. Glossy, aromatic, and bursting with herby, garlicky flavors, these olives transform an ordinary snack into a vibrant, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Homemade marinated olives are surprisingly easy to prepare — and they taste so much fresher and more complex than store-bought versions. Once you try making them yourself, you’ll never look back. By choosing the right olives and pairing them with complimentary flavours, you turn a simple jar of marinated green olives into a centerpiece. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a quiet evening snack, or recreating a Spanish tapas night at home, these olives never disappoint.
Why Use Olives with Pits?
Using olives with pits is key to getting the best flavour and texture. Olives with pits stay firmer and juicier during marination because the pit helps the olive hold its shape. The pit also helps preserve the olive’s natural briny, fruity flavor, making each bite more satisfying and complex.
If you want olives that taste fresh, meaty, and full of character, always choose ones with pits. Just be sure to provide a small dish for guests to discard them — they’ll appreciate the extra flavour! 🙂
Some Pairing Ideas
Marinated olives shine on their own but truly elevate other foods when paired thoughtfully:
Appetizer platters: Pair with sliced cured meats, aged cheeses, roasted nuts, and crusty bread.
With drinks: Enjoy with a crisp white wine, a sparkling drink, or even a dry martini.
Cheese boards: Their bright, herbaceous notes compliment both soft cheeses (like goat cheese) and hard, nutty varieties (like aged gouda).
On bread: Serve with warm baguette or sourdough to soak up the delicious marinade.
Storing Marinated Green Olives
Store your marinated green olives in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and flavourful for up to 2 weeks. Always use a clean spoon to scoop them out to prevent contamination. If needed, top up with extra olive oil to keep them completely covered.
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Marinated Green Olives
Course: AppetizersCuisine: Mediterranean4
servings10
minutesHomemade marinated green olives infused with garlic, herbs, and spices — an easy, flavourful appetizer perfect for any platter or snack table.
Ingredients
200 g Green olives, with pits
1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar
6 cloves of Garlic, crushed
2 sprigs Thyme
2 sprigs Rosemary
3 Bay leaves
1/2 tsp Fennel Seeds
1/2 tsp dried Oregano
Directions
- Rinse and drain the green olives to remove excess brine.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil and vinegar until well combined.
- Stir in crushed garlic, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, fennel seeds, and oregano.
- Add olives to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly.
- Transfer everything into a clean glass jar or airtight container, making sure olives are fully submerged in the marinade.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 days, shaking or stirring the jar gently each day to ensure even flavour.
Notes
- Always use a clean spoon to scoop them out to prevent contamination. If needed, top up with extra olive oil to keep them completely covered.
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