What You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds of green Sicilian olives
- 1/4 cup of kosher salt
- 4 cups of filtered water
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- A handful of fresh thyme
- A handful of fresh oregano
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
Step 1: Preparing the Olives
Start by selecting firm and unblemished green Sicilian olives. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Make small incisions in each olive using a sharp knife or a needle. This step allows the brine to penetrate the olives, ensuring they are perfectly seasoned.
Step 2: Brining the Olives
In a large bowl, dissolve the kosher salt in the filtered water. Add the olives to the brine and cover the bowl. Leave them to soak for at least a week, or up to a month if you prefer a stronger flavor. Remember to stir the olives gently every couple of days to distribute the brine.
Step 3: Flavor Infusion
After the brining period, drain the olives from the brine and give them a final rinse. In a clean jar, layer the olives with sliced lemon, minced garlic, thyme, and oregano. Pour extra virgin olive oil over the olives to ensure they are fully submerged. This step infuses the olives with the aromatic herbs and enhances their overall taste.
Step 4: Maturation
Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least one month. During this time, the olives will continue to mature and absorb the flavors of the herbs and oil. The longer you wait, the more flavorful they will become. Patience is key!
Serving Suggestions
- Add Sicilian-style brined olives to your antipasto platter for a taste of Sicily.
- Chop them up and use them as a topping for salads or pasta dishes.
- Enjoy them as a snack with some crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Include them in your homemade pizza or focaccia for an extra burst of flavor.
Now that you know how to make Sicilian-style brined olives, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start preparing this traditional delicacy. Whether you serve them at a gathering or enjoy them on your own, these olives are sure to impress with their rich flavors. Buon appetito!