Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

Simply Delicious Marinated Olives are perfect for any gathering or meal. This bright and flavorful dish showcases the delightful taste of olives, enhanced with fresh herbs and aromatic ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a picnic, or simply looking for a savory snack, these marinated olives will impress everyone. Plus, they are easy to make and can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish quickly.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, orange peel, and spices creates a vibrant flavor profile that elevates simple olives.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack at any occasion—from casual get-togethers to elegant dinners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Allowing the olives to marinate enhances their flavor, making this a great make-ahead option for busy days.
• Healthy Snack Alternative: Packed with healthy fats and low in carbs, these marinated olives are a guilt-free treat.

Tools and Preparation

To create Simply Delicious Marinated Olives effectively, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large shallow dish: Provides ample space for mixing the marinade and tossing the olives evenly.
• Whisk: Helps combine the oil and vinegar smoothly for a well-blended marinade.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for slicing garlic and preparing orange peel efficiently.

Ingredients

Here I’ll show you a simple and delicious marinade to wrap around olives!

For the Olives

• 14oz / 400g Olives, (pitted (see notes))

For the Marinade

• 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 extra virgin olive oil, red apple vinegar, parsley, oregano, and chilli flakes until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add in the pitted olives along with orange peel and sliced garlic. Toss everything together gently until the olives are well coated in the marinade.

Step 3: Marinate

Cover the dish and let it marinate for at least an hour. If you’re able to toss them occasionally during this time, it helps distribute the flavors. For longer marination, refrigerate and bring back to room temperature before serving so that the olive oil loosens up nicely.

Enjoy your Simply Delicious Marinated Olives as a delightful addition to your next meal or gathering!

How to Serve Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

Serving Simply Delicious Marinated Olives is a delightful way to elevate your appetizers or snacks. These marinated olives can complement a variety of dishes and occasions, making them perfect for gatherings or a quiet evening at home.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• item Arrange marinated olives alongside cheeses, cured meats (like chicken or turkey), and fresh fruits for a visually appealing spread.

With Fresh Breads

• item Serve with crusty baguettes or artisan bread for dipping into the flavorful marinade, enhancing the taste experience.

On Tapas Night

• item Include these olives in your tapas selection. They pair beautifully with Spanish-inspired dishes like patatas bravas or stuffed peppers.

In Salads

• item Toss marinated olives into salads for added flavor. They work well with Mediterranean salads featuring feta cheese and fresh vegetables.

As a Snack

• item Enjoy marinated olives straight from the bowl as a healthy snack option between meals, offering a burst of flavor without the guilt.

With Wine Alternatives

• item Pair with non-alcoholic wines or sparkling juices for an enjoyable beverage that complements the rich flavors of the olives.

How to Perfect Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

Perfecting your Simply Delicious Marinated Olives can enhance their flavor and appeal. Here are some tips to ensure you get delicious results every time.

• Choose Quality Olives: Opt for high-quality olives that are firm and flavorful. This will significantly impact the end result of your dish.
• Adjust Marinade Time: Allow the olives to marinate longer for deeper flavor absorption. Overnight is ideal if you want maximum taste.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary to personalize your olive blend.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh garlic and parsley for better flavor compared to dried alternatives.
• Add Citrus Zest: Incorporating lemon zest along with orange adds an extra layer of freshness to your marinade.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This will maintain their freshness and flavor longer.

Best Side Dishes for Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

Pairing side dishes with Simply Delicious Marinated Olives can create a well-rounded meal or appetizer spread. Here are some great options:

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic makes a refreshing side that balances the richness of the olives.
2. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A vibrant salad packed with quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese complements the flavors of marinated olives perfectly.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, herbs, and ground turkey provide a hearty contrast to the lightness of olives.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls (or vegan alternatives), and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a delightful bite-sized treat.
5. Hummus Platter: Serve creamy hummus with pita chips and veggie sticks for a tasty dip that pairs well with marinated olives.
6. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds depth and complements the robust flavors of your olive dish.
7. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad mixed with lemon juice and herbs offers a nutritious side that balances well with salty olives.
8. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia drizzled with herbs is perfect for mopping up olive oil from marinated olives while adding texture to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating olives can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for while making your Simply Delicious Marinated Olives.

• Bold phrase: Not using quality olives – Using subpar olives can lead to a disappointing flavor. Choose high-quality, pitted olives for the best results.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the marinating time – Rushing the marination process diminishes flavor absorption. Always allow at least one hour for the flavors to meld.
• Bold phrase: Overlooking storage conditions – Improper storage can spoil your olives. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Bold phrase: Ignoring spice preferences – Not adjusting spices to your liking can result in bland olives. Feel free to modify the chilli flakes or herbs according to your taste.
• Bold phrase: Forgetting to bring to room temperature – Serving cold marinated olives can mask their flavors. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Simply Delicious Marinated Olives in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the olives.
• If necessary, freeze for up to 3 months, but expect changes in quality.

Reheating Simply Delicious Marinated Olives

• Oven: Preheat your oven to low heat. Place olives in an oven-safe dish and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe container for about 30 seconds. Stir and check if additional time is needed.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Simply Delicious Marinated Olives.

How long should I marinate the olives?

Allow at least one hour for marination. For best results, marinate overnight in the fridge.

Can I customize my Simply Delicious Marinated Olives?

Absolutely! You can adjust herbs and spices or add ingredients like lemon zest or other fresh herbs based on your preference.

What dishes pair well with marinated olives?

Simply Delicious Marinated Olives make a great appetizer or side dish. They pair well with cheese platters, bread, and Mediterranean dishes.

Are these marinated olives suitable for parties?

Yes! They are perfect finger foods and can be served at any gathering as a tasty snack or appetizer.

Final Thoughts

Simply Delicious Marinated Olives are a fantastic addition to any meal or gathering, bringing bright flavors and versatility. Feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite herbs or spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a burst of Mediterranean goodness!