To start, you will need a pound of black olives. It is best to choose olives that are firm and not overly soft. Rinse the olives under cold water to remove any excess brine or salt. Next, you will need to prepare the seasonings for your olives. The seasonings can vary based on your personal preference, but a classic combination includes olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon zest.
In a mixing bowl, combine half a cup of olive oil with two cloves of minced garlic, two tablespoons of finely chopped rosemary, and the zest of one lemon. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined and the flavors have melded. Add the olives to the bowl and toss them gently to ensure that each olive is coated with the seasoning mixture. Let the olives marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator, to allow the flavors to infuse.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the olives are marinating. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent the olives from sticking. Spread the olives out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring that they are not crowded. This allows them to roast evenly and develop a deliciously crispy texture.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the olives roast for approximately 30 minutes, or until they become slightly shriveled and have a rich, dark color. During the roasting process, make sure to give the olives a gentle shake or stir every 10 minutes to ensure even browning.
Once the olives are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. The olives can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and they are perfect for snacking on their own or adding to salads, pizzas, or pasta dishes. The combination of the rich, briny olives with the added seasonings results in a delightful burst of flavors in every bite.
The beauty of making your own black olives in the oven with seasonings is that you can easily experiment with different flavors and spices to suit your taste. You may want to try adding crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or substituting thyme for the rosemary. The possibilities are endless, and you can let your creativity run wild.
In conclusion, making black olives in the oven with seasonings is a simple and rewarding process that elevates the flavor of this beloved ingredient. With a pound of firm black olives and a flavorful combination of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon zest, you can create a delicious snack or a versatile addition to your favorite dishes. So, why settle for store-bought when you can enjoy homemade black olives bursting with your desired seasonings?