If you have a soft spot for flavorful bites that are as charming as they are simple, then you’re absolutely going to adore this Marinated Olives with Citrus Zest and Herbs Recipe. This vibrant mix of Castelvetrano and Kalamata olives bathed in fragrant olive oil infused with fresh herbs and zesty citrus creates a snack that’s bursting with aromatic complexity and a medley of textures. It’s perfect for sharing, serving as a stunning appetizer, or simply enjoying any time you crave something fresh and lively. Trust me, this is one of those easy recipes that feel like a little gourmet magic in a jar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward yet essential for achieving that perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color in your Marinated Olives with Citrus Zest and Herbs Recipe. Each element brings something special to the party: the herbs add earthiness, the citrus zest adds brightness, and the olives bring their salty, buttery richness.
- 1 cup olive oil: Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and silky texture.
- 4 cloves garlic (sliced and divided): Adds fragrant warmth and a subtle punch of savory depth.
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (divided): These woody herbs give a pine-like aroma that lifts the olives beautifully.
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme (divided): Thyme’s gentle earthiness balances the citrus and garlic perfectly.
- 3 (2-inch) strips orange zest (from 1 orange, divided): Brings bright, sweet citrus notes and a burst of color.
- 3 (2-inch) strips lemon zest (from 1 lemon, divided): Adds zippy tang and a fresh, clean finish.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Provides a subtle warmth if you like a touch of heat.
- 8 ounces pitted Castelvetrano olives (drained): Known for their mild, buttery flavor and smooth texture.
- 8 ounces pitted Kalamata olives (drained): These bring a rich, fruity, and slightly tangy contrast.
How to Make Marinated Olives with Citrus Zest and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Infuse the Olive Oil
Begin by gently warming the olive oil in a small pot along with half the garlic, one sprig of rosemary, two sprigs of thyme, one strip each of orange and lemon zest, and the crushed red pepper flakes if you are using them. You want the oil to be warm enough to coax out all those fragrant, herbal aromas without cooking or browning the ingredients. Once warmed through and beautifully fragrant, take the pot off the heat and let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes. This oil will be the flavorful bath your olives soak in.
Step 2: Layer the Olives and Remaining Ingredients
Grab a lidded container or a jar that seals well, and start by layering in your olives. Then add the remaining garlic slices, the other sprig of rosemary, the remaining thyme, and the leftover strips of orange and lemon zest. This layering not only looks lovely but also ensures every bite gets a burst of herbaceous, zesty goodness.
Step 3: Pour and Marinate
Carefully pour the cooled infused olive oil over the layered olives and herbs, making sure to drizzle in all those flavorful bits of garlic, rosemary, thyme, and zest right along with the oil. Give everything a gentle stir to combine, seal the container tightly, and pop it into the refrigerator. Let the olives marinate for at least 30 minutes – although the longer you wait, the more all the flavors mingle and deepen. This is where the magic of the Marinated Olives with Citrus Zest and Herbs Recipe really comes alive.
How to Serve Marinated Olives with Citrus Zest and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your olives even further when serving, sprinkle with a few fresh herb leaves like small thyme sprigs or finely chopped rosemary. A final zesting of lemon or orange over the top right before serving adds a fresh aroma that awakens the senses.
Side Dishes
This marinated olive mix shines next to rustic bread—think crusty baguette slices or warm pita. It also pairs amazingly well with cheese boards featuring creamy brie, sharp manchego, or tangy feta. For a Mediterranean-inspired spread, add roasted nuts, fresh cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers.
Creative Ways to Present
For a striking presentation, serve the marinated olives in a beautiful shallow dish or a wooden bowl scattered with additional citrus zest and herbs. You could also skewer the olives with toothpicks along with small cubes of cheese and cherry tomatoes for a neat and elegant appetizer bite that wows guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Marinated Olives with Citrus Zest and Herbs Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will continue to meld and deepen, making your olives even tastier the next day.
Freezing
Because the olives are packed in olive oil and fresh herbs, freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the olives and the aromatic quality of the marinade. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
These olives are best served at room temperature to showcase their full flavor. Before serving, you can let them sit out for about 15 to 20 minutes after removing from the fridge. Avoid reheating as this can dull the brightness of the citrus and freshness of the herbs.
FAQs
Can I use other types of olives in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Castelvetrano and Kalamata olives offer a lovely balance of buttery and tangy flavors, you can experiment with your favorites such as green olives, black olives, or even mixed olives depending on your taste preferences.
How long can I marinate the olives for the best flavor?
At minimum, marinate the olives for 30 minutes, but for the fullest flavor, 24 hours in the refrigerator works beautifully. The longer marinating time allows the herbs and citrus oils to infuse deeply into the olives.
Is this recipe spicy if I add the red pepper flakes?
Adding a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes introduces a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. You can adjust the amount or omit entirely depending on how spicy you like your olives.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the olives a day or two before your event, refrigerate well, and serve at room temperature for a stress-free, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
What is the best way to serve these olives for entertaining?
Serve them in a beautiful shallow dish, drizzled with some of the infused oil and garnished with fresh herb sprigs and extra citrus zest. Pair with rustic bread, assorted cheeses, and nuts to create an inviting appetizer spread that guests will love.
Final Thoughts
If you want to bring a burst of Mediterranean sunshine and effortless elegance to your snack table, give this Marinated Olives with Citrus Zest and Herbs Recipe a try. It’s a simple, vibrant way to elevate everyday olives into something truly special. I promise once you taste these, they’ll become your go-to snack and conversation starter for every gathering. Enjoy the delicious journey of flavor and share the love with friends and family!
Print
Marinated Olives with Citrus Zest and Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Marinated Olives recipe features a flavorful blend of Castelvetrano and Kalamata olives steeped in an infused olive oil with fresh herbs, citrus zest, garlic, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Perfect as a savory appetizer or addition to any charcuterie board, these marinated olives are quick to prepare and offer a vibrant Mediterranean taste.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, sliced and divided
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, divided
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme, divided
- 3 (2-inch) strips orange zest, divided (from 1 orange)
- 3 (2-inch) strips lemon zest, divided (from 1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Olives
- 8 ounces pitted Castelvetrano olives, drained (1 jar)
- 8 ounces pitted Kalamata olives, drained (1 jar)
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil Infusion: In a small pot, combine the olive oil, half of the sliced garlic, 1 sprig of fresh rosemary, 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, 1 strip each of orange and lemon zest, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Warm gently over low heat until the oil is fragrant but not boiling. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Olives in Container: In a lidded container suitable for marinating, layer the drained Castelvetrano and Kalamata olives. Add the remaining half of the sliced garlic, the remaining sprig of rosemary, 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, and the leftover strips of orange and lemon zest.
- Combine and Refrigerate: Pour the warm infused olive oil along with the herbs, garlic, and zest over the olives. Stir gently to combine everything well. Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Notes
- Use good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- The recipe can be made a day ahead to deepen the flavors.
- Serve at room temperature for optimal taste.
- Optionally add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Store leftovers refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
