Zesty Marinated Olives Recipe

About the Recipe

For a flavorful and elegant appetizer, this Zesty Marinated Olives Recipe combines briny olives with fresh herbs, garlic, lemon zest, and extra-virgin olive oil. It is an easy make-ahead recipe that becomes even more delicious as the flavors meld together. Perfect for charcuterie boards, holiday entertaining, or a simple Mediterranean-inspired snack, these marinated olives are ready with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Enjoy these bright and savory marinated olives as an appetizer, snack, or addition to your favorite cheese board. Fresh lemon zest, garlic, parsley, and shallots infuse every bite with vibrant Mediterranean flavor.

Prep Time

4 hours 10 minutes

Cook Time

0 minutes

Total Time

4 hours 10 minutes

Servings

6 servings

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Ingredients

2 cups brine-cured olives
¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 shallot, finely minced
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
2 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely minced
1 garlic clove, minced
½ teaspoon salt

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Olives

Rinse the brine-cured olives thoroughly under cool running water to remove excess salt. Drain well, then pat the olives completely dry with paper towels to help the marinade cling to them.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, minced shallot, grated lemon zest, fresh parsley, minced garlic, and salt. Stir until all of the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Marinate the Olives

Add the prepared olives to the bowl and gently toss until they are thoroughly coated with the flavorful marinade. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the olives to absorb the fresh citrus and herb flavors.

Step 4: Bring to Room Temperature and Serve

Remove the marinated olives from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving. Stir gently and transfer them to a serving bowl. Enjoy as part of a charcuterie board, alongside crusty gluten-free bread, or as a simple Mediterranean appetizer.

Notes

For the best flavor, allow the olives to marinate overnight.

A combination of green, black, and Kalamata olives creates a beautiful presentation and adds a variety of textures and flavors.

Fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano can be added for an extra layer of Mediterranean flavor.

Store leftover marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.