Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

Here’s a delicious recipe to elevate your appetizer game with Simply Delicious Marinated Olives. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply as a snack. With a vibrant marinade that infuses each olive with flavor, these marinated olives will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation – This recipe requires just five minutes of hands-on time, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavor Explosion – The combination of garlic, orange peel, and herbs creates a unique taste that transforms ordinary olives into a gourmet treat.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve these olives as an appetizer, alongside cheese, or as part of a Mediterranean platter.
• Make Ahead – Marinate the olives in advance to save time on the day of your event; they actually taste better after resting!
• Healthier Snack Option – With wholesome ingredients and low calories per serving, these marinated olives are a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything on hand makes preparation easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large shallow dish
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large shallow dish – Ideal for mixing the marinade thoroughly and allowing the flavors to coat the olives evenly.
• Whisk – Perfect for blending the oil and vinegar quickly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these delightful marinated olives:

For the Olives Marinade

• 14oz / 400g Olives, (pitted (see notes))
• 1/3 cup / 80ml Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1/4 cup / 20g very finely diced Fresh Parsley
• 4 fat cloves of Garlic, (peeled & cut into 3 or so slices each)
• 1 Orange, (peeled to around 3/4 strips with vegetable peeler)
• 1 tbsp Red Apple Vinegar
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1 tsp Chilli Flakes, (or to spice preference)

How to Make Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large shallow dish, whisk together the following ingredients:
1. Extra virgin olive oil
2. Red apple vinegar
3. Fresh parsley
4. Dried oregano
5. Chilli flakes

Step 2: Add the Olives and Aromatics

Add in:
1. Olives
2. Orange peel
3. Garlic

Toss gently to combine all ingredients so that each olive is coated in the flavorful marinade.

Step 3: Marinate

Cover the dish and let it marinate for at least one hour at room temperature. If you plan to marinate for longer than an hour, place it in the refrigerator. Remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving so that the olive oil loosens up nicely.

With this simple recipe for Simply Delicious Marinated Olives, you can turn plain olives into a mouthwatering snack or appetizer that everyone will love! Enjoy their delightful flavors at your next gathering or as a tasty treat any day of the week.

How to Serve Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

Simply delicious marinated olives make a fantastic appetizer or snack. They are versatile and can enhance various meals with their vibrant flavors. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include these marinated olives on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, nuts, and fresh fruits for a delightful presentation.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve marinated olives with crusty bread or baguette slices. The olive oil from the marinade makes a perfect dip.

In Salads

• Toss marinated olives into salads for added flavor and texture. They pair well with both green salads and grain-based salads.

As Topping for Pizza

• Use marinated olives as a topping on homemade or store-bought pizza. Their briny flavor complements the cheese and sauce perfectly.

With Antipasto Platter

• Create an antipasto platter featuring marinated olives, roasted peppers, artichokes, and various cheeses for an Italian-inspired feast.

On Their Own

• Enjoy them straight from the bowl as a snack during movie night or gatherings with friends.

How to Perfect Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

To achieve the best flavor in your marinated olives, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality olives: Opt for high-quality, pitted olives for the best taste and texture.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add different herbs such as thyme or rosemary to personalize your marinade.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of chili flakes based on your heat preference for a milder or spicier dish.
• Marinate longer: For even more intense flavors, allow the olives to marinate overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Serve at room temperature: Allow the olives to come to room temperature before serving so the oil is less viscous and flavorful.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, maintaining their deliciousness.

Best Side Dishes for Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

Pairing side dishes with your simply delicious marinated olives can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Assorted seasonal vegetables grilled until tender and slightly charred provide a wonderful contrast.
3. Hummus Platter: Creamy hummus served with assorted veggie sticks and pita chips is great alongside marinated olives.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs complement the rich flavors of the olives beautifully.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa, herbs, and feta cheese create a hearty side that pairs well.
6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad tossed with olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and arugula makes an excellent accompaniment.
7. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil adds a delightful crunch.
8. Couscous Salad: Flavorful couscous mixed with vegetables and herbs creates a deliciously light side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the simplest recipes can have pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind when making your Simply Delicious Marinated Olives.

• Skipping the marinating time: Not allowing enough time for the flavors to meld can result in bland olives. Aim for at least one hour, or longer if possible.
• Using low-quality olive oil: The quality of olive oil significantly impacts flavor. Always choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
• Overlooking ingredient freshness: Fresh ingredients, especially herbs and garlic, enhance the taste of your marinade. Ensure everything is fresh before using.
• Not adjusting spice levels: Each palate is different. Start with the recommended chili flakes and adjust according to your heat preference.
• Ignoring storage instructions: Proper storage preserves flavor and quality. Follow the guidelines for refrigeration and reheating to enjoy your olives at their best.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Keep the olives submerged in oil for maximum flavor retention.

Freezing Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat olives for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place olives in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 30 seconds, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Simply Delicious Marinated Olives.

How long should I marinate the olives?

Marinate your olives for at least one hour. For deeper flavors, consider marinating them overnight in the fridge.

Can I customize my marinated olives?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other herbs or spices like thyme or rosemary based on your taste preferences.

What type of olives should I use?

You can use any variety of pitted olives—green, black, or a mix! Each type will bring its own unique flavor.

Are these marinated olives suitable as a snack?

Yes! Simply Delicious Marinated Olives make an excellent snack or appetizer that pairs well with various dishes.

How can I use leftover marinade?

Leftover marinade can be used as a dressing for salads or drizzled over grilled vegetables for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Simply Delicious Marinated Olives offer a burst of flavor that complements many meals. This versatile recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices, making it perfect for any occasion. Try it out today and elevate your appetizer game!