What You’ll Need
Before we dive into the preparation process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment:
- 2 cups of olives (Choose your favorite variety. We recommend a mix of green and black olives for added visual appeal.)
- 4 cloves of garlic (peeled and finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust according to your preferred level of spiciness)
- 1 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- Airtight glass jars (for storing the marinated olives)
Step 1: Prepare the Olives
The first step in marinating olives is to prepare them. If you are using olives with pits, make sure to remove them carefully. You can use a small knife or your fingers to gently pry the pits out of each olive. Once all the pits are removed, rinse the olives under cool water to remove any brine or excess salt. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the chopped garlic, fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the marinade.
Step 3: Marinate the Olives
Transfer the olives into the airtight glass jars, leaving some space at the top for the marinade. Pour the marinade into the jars, making sure all the olives are fully submerged. Secure the lids tightly and give the jars a gentle shake to distribute the marinade.
Step 4: Infuse the Flavors
Place the jars in the refrigerator and let the olives marinate for at least 24 hours. This resting period allows the olives to absorb all the flavors from the marinade, resulting in a more intense and delicious taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the olives have marinated to your liking, they are ready to be enjoyed. You can serve them as an appetizer alongside a cheese and charcuterie board, toss them in salads, or even add them to pasta dishes for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless!
So why wait? Prepare a batch of marinated olives using this step-by-step guide, and elevate your culinary skills to impress your friends and family with this simple yet delicious treat.