What You’ll Need
- 1 cup of olives (pitted or unpitted)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Step 1: Choosing the Olives
Start by selecting your olives. You can use any type of olives you prefer, whether it’s green, black, Kalamata, or a mix. This is where you can explore and experiment with different flavors.
Step 2: Preparing the Olives
If you have purchased olives that are unpitted, gently crush them with the flat side of a knife to open them up and release their flavors. If your olives are already pitted, skip this step.
Step 3: Creating the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried herbs, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Mix well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Marinating the Olives
Place the olives in a clean jar or container with a tightly fitting lid. Pour the prepared marinade over the olives, ensuring they are fully submerged. If needed, add more olive oil to completely cover the olives.
Step 5: Infusing the Flavors
Seal the jar or container and gently shake it to evenly distribute the marinade. Allow the olives to marinate for at least 24 hours, or up to a week in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more intense the flavors will become.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
Once your marinated olives have reached your desired flavor, they are ready to be served. You can enjoy them as a snack, add them to salads, pasta dishes, or use them as a flavorful addition to your appetizer platters. The possibilities are endless!
Now that you know the step-by-step process of making marinated olives, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start experimenting with flavors. Remember, this is just a basic guide, and you can get as creative as you want with your marinades. Homemade marinated olives are an excellent way to elevate your culinary skills and impress your guests with your homemade delicacy.