How to season freshly picked olives

Olives are a versatile fruit that have been enjoyed for centuries. Whether they are used in salads, pasta dishes, or as a standalone snack, add a unique flavor and texture to any meal. While most olives available in stores come pre-seasoned, there is something special about seasoning olives yourself. In this article, we will explore the process of seasoning olives and provide you with some delicious seasoning ideas to try at home.

Before we delve into the seasoning process, it is important to note that olives need to be cured before they can be consumed. Freshly picked olives have a naturally bitter taste, and curing them helps to soften this bitterness and develop their signature flavor. There are several methods to cure olives, including water curing, brine curing, and salt-curing. Select the curing method that suits your taste preference and follow the appropriate instructions before proceeding with the seasoning.

Once your olives have been properly cured, it is time to season them. The first step is to rinse the cured olives in cool water to remove any excess salt or other curing agents. Next, pat them dry with a clean towel. This will ensure that the seasoning sticks to the olives properly.

There are endless seasoning combinations that you can try for your ly picked olives. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Mediterranean Blend:
This classic seasoning includes a blend of dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, and crushed red pepper flakes. This combination adds a savory and slightly spicy flavor to your olives. Mix these herbs together and coat the olives generously before storing them in an airtight container.

2. Citrus Zest:
For a refreshing twist, mix grated lemon or orange zest with a small amount of sea salt and sprinkle it over your olives. The citrus zest adds a burst of tanginess, complementing the natural brininess of the olives.

3. Garlic Infusion:
If you love garlic, you will enjoy this seasoning. Crush several garlic cloves and mix them with olive oil. Allow the olives to marinate in this mixture for a couple of hours or overnight. The olives will absorb the pungent garlic flavor, making them a delicious addition to any dish.

4. Smoky Paprika:
This seasoning is perfect for those who prefer a smoky and slightly spicy flavor. Sprinkle some smoked paprika over the olives and toss them to coat evenly. The paprika adds a vibrant red color and a distinct smokiness to the olives.

5. Chili Lime:
For a zesty and spicy kick, mix the juice of a fresh lime with a sprinkle of chili powder and a pinch of salt. Drizzle this mixture over the olives, making sure they are well-coated. The combination of lime and chili adds a burst of flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Once seasoned, store your olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help them retain their flavor and freshness for a longer period.

Seasoning freshly picked olives allows you to personalize their flavor and experiment with different combinations. So, the next time you have the opportunity to pick olives, give one of these seasoning ideas a try. It will undoubtedly elevate your olives to a whole new level of deliciousness.