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Smoky Marinated Olives: A Simple and Flavorful Snack Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 71 reviews
  • Author: Mariam
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes preparation plus at least 2 hours marinating (preferably overnight)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

These Smoky Marinated Olives are an incredibly simple yet flavorful snack perfect for any occasion. Combining mixed green and black olives with a rich marinade of extra virgin olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic, fresh herbs, lemon zest, and optional red pepper flakes, this recipe delivers a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy bite that pairs wonderfully with cheese plates, cocktails, or as a standalone treat. The olives marinate overnight to absorb all the robust flavors, making for a tasty and elegant appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Olives

  • 2 cups Mixed Green and Black Olives (Pitted for easy snacking)

Marinade

  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (High-quality for best flavor)
  • 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika (For smoky flavor)
  • 3 cloves Garlic (Minced for robust flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme or Rosemary (Chopped for flavor)
  • 1 unit Lemon Zest (Grated for brightness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for heat)

Instructions

  1. Gather Ingredients: Place all ingredients in a large mixing bowl, ensuring the olives have been pitted for easy eating.
  2. Add Olive Oil: Pour the extra virgin olive oil into the bowl over the olives.
  3. Mix in Smoked Paprika: Sprinkle the smoked paprika into the oil and gently stir to combine and release its smoky aroma.
  4. Add Garlic: Incorporate the minced garlic into the mixture, mixing thoroughly to distribute the robust flavor evenly.
  5. Include Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle the chopped fresh thyme or rosemary into the bowl and stir well for herby notes.
  6. Add Lemon Zest: Grate the lemon zest directly into the bowl and mix to add brightness and a citrusy punch.
  7. Add Heat if Desired: Optionally sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir to integrate a subtle hint of spiciness.
  8. Coat the Olives: Gently fold the olives into the marinade until well coated with all the flavors.
  9. Transfer to Container: Move the marinated olives along with the marinade to an airtight container to keep flavors sealed.
  10. Refrigerate: Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours but preferably overnight to allow the flavors to develop fully.
  11. Serve at Room Temperature: Remove the olives from the fridge ahead of serving and let them come to room temperature for optimal taste.
  12. Plate & Enjoy: Serve the olives in a dish, drizzled with some extra marinade if desired for added flavor.

Notes

  • Using pitted olives makes snacking easier and more enjoyable.
  • For a stronger smoky flavor, use high-quality smoked paprika.
  • The marinade can be adjusted with your preferred herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
  • Marinate the olives overnight for the best flavor infusion.
  • These olives make a perfect accompaniment for cheese boards, cocktails, or as a party appetizer.
  • Keep refrigerated and consume within one week for freshness.
  • Letting olives come to room temperature before serving enhances their aroma and texture.

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Find it online: https://quickcookingmagic.com/smoky-marinated-olives-a-simple-and-flavorful-snack-recipe/