Discover how to create truly irresistible Marinated Olives in just minutes! This super easy recipe transforms ordinary olives into an extraordinary appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion. Imagine having a gourmet-level treat ready to impress guests or elevate your everyday snacking experience, all with minimal effort. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with absolute simplicity.
Effortlessly Delicious: Your Guide to Super Easy Marinated Olives!
My partner, John, immediately fell in love with these marinated olives. As soon as he discovered them in the fridge, they became his favorite go-to snack. He even added them to a sandwich, raving about how they elevated the flavors. This simple recipe consistently receives rave reviews, proving that the best dishes don’t always require hours in the kitchen.
These flavorful Marinated Olives aren’t just for snacking; they also make a fantastic homemade gift! Jarred beautifully with a decorative ribbon and a couple of small serving spoons or appetizer forks, they present a thoughtful and delicious present for your foodie friends, especially during the holidays. They’re also an absolute hit for any party or gathering. You can prepare them well in advance, letting the flavors meld and deepen, then simply transfer them to an elegant serving bowl with toothpicks or appetizer forks for effortless entertaining. Their vibrant taste and beautiful presentation make them a focal point on any appetizer spread.
Beyond appetizers, these versatile olives are a superb addition to salads, pasta dishes, or as a delightful accompaniment to a cheese board. The robust flavor profile, which you can easily customize, makes them incredibly adaptable. Whether you prefer a mild hint of spice or a fiery kick, simply adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your taste. If heat isn’t your preference, feel free to omit them entirely for a purely savory experience.
Why You’ll Love This Marinated Olives Recipe:
- Incredibly Simple & Quick: Ready for marinating in mere minutes, requiring minimal prep time.
- Flavorful & Customizable: A perfect blend of savory, tangy, and aromatic notes, easily adjusted to your spice preference.
- Versatile Delight: Excellent as an appetizer, a gourmet snack, a salad topper, or an addition to main dishes.
- Ideal for Entertaining: A crowd-pleasing finger food that can be prepared ahead of time, reducing day-of stress.
- Thoughtful Homemade Gift: Beautifully packaged, they make a unique and delicious present for friends and family.
- Diet-Friendly: Naturally vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Marinated Olives
Crafting these epic marinated olives requires a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients that work together to create an explosion of flavor. Choosing fresh and good quality components is key to achieving the best taste. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to bring this delightful appetizer to life:
- Black Olives: The star of our show! While the recipe specifically calls for black olives, feel free to experiment with other varieties. Ensure they are pitted and well-drained before marinating to prevent excess liquid from diluting the flavors.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This is the foundation of our marinade, providing a luxurious, fruity base. Opt for a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, as it will infuse deeply into the olives.
- Fresh Basil: Adds a bright, aromatic, and slightly peppery note. Fresh herbs make a significant difference in the overall freshness of the marinade. Chop it finely to release its essential oils.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic is crucial for a pungent, savory depth. It’s one of the quintessential flavors of Mediterranean cuisine and perfectly complements the olives.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Introduces a wonderful tang and a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the olive oil and the saltiness of the olives. A good quality balsamic vinegar will offer a more complex flavor profile.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who appreciate a touch of heat. These flakes add a pleasant warmth and a slight kick, enhancing the overall dynamic of the marinade. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level, or omit for a milder version.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors, bringing out the best in the olives and herbs. Taste and adjust as needed, keeping in mind that olives are already naturally salty.
Recommended Equipment for Marinated Olives
Preparing these marinated olives is straightforward and doesn’t require specialized kitchen gadgets. However, having the right basic equipment can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Covered Dish or Bowl: You’ll need a medium to large non-reactive dish or bowl with a lid or airtight cover. This is essential for the olives to marinate properly in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without drying out or absorbing other fridge odors. Glass containers are ideal.
- Serving Bowl: For presenting your delicious marinated olives. While any attractive bowl works, did you know there are specialized olive serving trays? These often long, shallow glass or ceramic trays are perfect for showcasing olives and other small appetizers, offering an elegant alternative to a large charcuterie board or a standard serving platter.
- Bamboo Picks or Appetizer Forks: If you’re serving these at a party or as a shared appetizer, providing bamboo cocktail picks or small appetizer forks makes it easy for guests to enjoy them hygienically. A small pair of tongs would also be a practical and elegant serving option.
How to Make Super Easy Marinated Olives: Step-by-Step Guide
Making these marinated olives couldn’t be simpler! With just a few quick steps, you’ll have a delightful appetizer ready to chill and infuse with incredible flavors. The key is allowing ample time for the olives to soak up the aromatic marinade. Here’s how you can prepare them:
- Prepare Ingredients: Begin by ensuring your black olives are well-drained. If using fresh basil, finely chop it. Mince your garlic cloves. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready will make the assembly process even faster.
- Combine and Mix: In your chosen covered dish or mixing bowl, combine the drained black olives, extra virgin olive oil, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt. Use a spoon or spatula to gently mix all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the olives are evenly coated with the fragrant marinade. This initial mixing is crucial for uniform flavor distribution.
- Marinate in the Refrigerator: Once mixed, cover the dish tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the olives to marinate for at least 2 hours. For the absolute best flavor, aim for 4 to 24 hours. The longer they marinate, the more intense and harmonious the flavors will become. Give them a gentle stir halfway through the marinating time if possible, to further ensure even flavor development.
- Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, take the marinated olives out of the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes beforehand to allow them to come closer to room temperature, which enhances their flavor. Serve them in a nice bowl with picks or tongs, and prepare for them to be a crowd favorite!
Preparation and Storage Tips for Marinated Olives
These marinated olives are not only easy to make but also incredibly convenient when it comes to preparation and storage, making them an ideal choice for both spontaneous snacking and planned entertaining.
Make-Ahead: This recipe is a dream come true for make-ahead planning. The olives actually taste better after they’ve had a chance to sit and absorb the marinade. They require a minimum of two hours in the fridge to marinate, but their flavor deepens beautifully overnight or even for a couple of days. This makes them the perfect appetizer to prepare well in advance of a party or gathering, freeing up your time on the day of the event.
Storage: Any leftover marinated olives (if there are any!) should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they will maintain their delicious flavor and texture for up to one month. Ensure the olives remain submerged in the olive oil marinade as much as possible, as this helps preserve them and keeps them flavorful.
Freezing/How to Freeze: If you find yourself with an abundance of marinated olives or simply want to extend their shelf life significantly, freezing is an option. For comprehensive guidance on how to freeze olives effectively, you can consult a thorough guide to freezing olives. Generally, you can freeze marinated olives in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to six months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and allow them to come to room temperature for optimal flavor.
Customizing Your Marinated Olives: Variations & Expert Tips
One of the joys of this super easy marinated olives recipe is its incredible flexibility. While delicious as is, it serves as a fantastic base for customization. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to tailor the flavors precisely to your preferences. Here are several ways to make these marinated olives uniquely yours:
Olive Choices: While black olives are recommended, this recipe truly shines with a variety of olives. Explore your local grocery store’s olive bar or specialty stores for exciting options. Consider:
- Castelvetrano Olives: Known for their buttery, mild, and slightly sweet flavor, and a vibrant green color.
- Kalamata Olives: A classic choice, offering a robust, fruity, and slightly briny taste with a deep purple hue.
- Green Olives (Manzanilla or Picholine): Provide a firmer texture and a sharper, saltier flavor.
- Mixed Olives: A combination of different olive types can add visual appeal and a more complex flavor profile.
Herb & Spice Blends: Enhance the aromatic depth by adding a wider array of fresh or dried herbs and spices:
- Fresh Thyme & Rosemary: Woody, fragrant herbs that pair wonderfully with olives.
- Dried Oregano or Marjoram: Essential Mediterranean flavors that add an earthy depth.
- Fennel Seeds: Offer a subtle anise-like sweetness and crunch.
- Bay Leaf: A classic addition for a sophisticated, aromatic undertone.
- Coriander Seeds: Lightly crushed, they provide a citrusy, earthy note.
- Smoked Paprika: For a touch of smoky sweetness and color.
Citrus & Acidity Boost: Brighten the marinade with citrus or explore different vinegars:
- Lemon Peel or Orange Zest: Finely grated zest adds a beautiful fragrant lift without the bitterness of juice.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: A squeeze just before serving can add a zesty pop.
- Red Wine Vinegar: A more robust, fruitier alternative to balsamic vinegar for a different tangy profile.
- White Wine Vinegar: Offers a sharper, cleaner acidity.
Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness to your liking:
- More Red Pepper Flakes: Amp up the heat for those who love a fiery kick.
- Chili Oil: A drizzle of quality chili oil can add both heat and a rich, infused flavor.
- Fresh Chili: Thinly sliced fresh bird’s eye chili or jalapeño for a bolder, fresher spice.
- No Spice: Simply omit the red pepper flakes for a mild, family-friendly version.
Other Delicious Add-ins:
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Thinly sliced, they add a sweet, concentrated tomato flavor.
- Capers: Provide a briny, tangy pop that complements olives perfectly.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Sliced and added to the marinade for a sweet and smoky element.
- Artichoke Hearts: Quartered artichoke hearts can be a delightful textural and flavor addition.
Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly: This recipe is inherently vegetarian and vegan, as all the ingredients are plant-based. It’s a fantastic option for various dietary needs.
Gluten-Free Assurance: All ingredients in this recipe are typically gluten-free. However, if you have severe gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, always check the labels of your olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and other packaged ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free and to avoid any potential cross-contamination.
Serving Size Adjustments: The base recipe makes 12 servings and is incredibly easy to scale up or down. Whether you’re preparing a small snack for yourself or a large batch for a big party, simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally. Remember to use a sufficiently large covered dish if you’re increasing the yield to ensure proper marination.
What to Serve with Super Easy Marinated Olives
These versatile marinated olives are much more than just a simple snack; they are a sophisticated addition to a wide range of meals and gatherings. Their bright, savory, and tangy profile makes them an excellent companion to various dishes, from elegant cocktail appetizers to hearty main courses. Here are some inspired serving suggestions to help you integrate them into your menu planning:
Perfect for Appetizer Spreads: Serve them as a star component on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, cured meats, crackers, and crusty bread. They also pair beautifully with other elegant finger foods during a cocktail night or a sophisticated dinner party.
Enhancing Main Meals: Incorporate them into a homemade date night meal. They can be served with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, and a decadent dessert like tiramisu for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. Their briny kick can cut through rich flavors, providing a delightful contrast.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Sides:
- Sugared Cranberries
- Hasselback Potatoes
- Caprese Pasta Salad
- Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
- Carrot Soufflé
- Crock Pot Stuffed Tomatoes
- CrockPot Shrimp & Grits
- Strawberry Bruschetta
- Shrimp Remoulade
- CrockPot Bacon Wrapped Potatoes
- Main Dishes:
- CrockPot Port Braised Beef Short Ribs
- CrockPot Rosemary Pork
- Caprese Eggs Benedict
- Balsamic Chicken Skewers
- CrockPot Salisbury Steak
- CrockPot Beef Tips & Gravy
- Shrimp Linguini
- CrockPot Roast with Red Potatoes
- Grilled Shrimp with Avocado Butter
- Desserts:
- Hershey Pie
- Sweet & Salty Chocolate Dessert Bar
- Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars
- Carrot Cake with Pineapple, Coconut & Port Wine
- CopyCat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake
- Strawberry Shortcake
- CrockPot Cherries Jubilee
- Apple Blackberry Fruit Tart
- Drinks:
- Alchemy Bar Revved Up Mojito Martini
- Chocolate Cake Shot
- Chocolate Covered Cherry Shot
- Classic Grasshopper Drink
- Cranberry Mimosa
- Raspberry Pomegranate Lemonade Cocktail
- 40 Is the New 20 Martini Cocktail
- Martini Seduction
- Alchemist Sidecar
When to Enjoy These Easy Marinated Olives
The beauty of these super easy marinated olives lies in their versatility. They’re suitable for a myriad of occasions, effortlessly fitting into various meal plans and social settings. Here are some ideal times to serve and savor this delightful dish:
- Lunch: A fantastic addition to a light lunch, complementing sandwiches, wraps, or a fresh salad.
- Cocktail Night: An elegant and effortless appetizer that pairs perfectly with your favorite drinks and other finger foods.
- Dinner Date Night: Adds a touch of gourmet sophistication to an intimate meal at home.
- Dinner and Drinks: An excellent starter or side for casual dinners with friends.
- Football Parties / Game Day: A crowd-pleasing snack that’s easy to munch on while cheering for your team.
- New Year’s Celebrations: A festive and flavorful bite to kick off the new year.
- Holiday Parties: Their vibrant colors and rich flavors make them a welcome addition to any holiday spread.
- Everyday Snacktime: When you crave a healthy, satisfying, and flavor-packed snack.
- Picnics & Potlucks: Easy to transport and universally loved, making them perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Explore More Delicious Recipes and Culinary Inspirations
If you’ve enjoyed making and savoring these super easy marinated olives, you’re in for a treat! Our blog is filled with an extensive collection of recipes designed to inspire your culinary adventures. From savory snacks to comforting main courses and indulgent desserts, we have something for every taste and occasion. Dive into these curated collections to find your next favorite dish:
Savory Snacks – Craving something satisfying and savory? Whether you need a quick bite between meals, a flavorful accompaniment for your evening, or a snack to fulfill a specific craving, our extensive selection of savory snacks offers options galore to satisfy every palate. Get ready to discover your new go-to munchies!
Finger Foods – Hosting a party or attending a potluck? These easy finger food recipes are your perfect companions. Designed for convenience and deliciousness, they are ideal for mingling, ensuring your guests can enjoy delectable bites without needing formal cutlery. Impress everyone with these fuss-free appetizers!
Game Day Appetizers – Elevate your game day experience with over 30 appetizers that promise to score big in flavor! From warm and gooey slow cooker dips to crispy air fryer delights, we’ve got the ultimate selection of snacks you’ll want to enjoy while passionately watching your favorite team. Make your next game day gathering unforgettable!
Vegetable Side Dishes – Looking for the perfect complement to your main course? Explore our collection of easy vegetable side dishes, ideal for any family dinner, holiday meal, or special event. These recipes offer delicious and healthy ways to incorporate more greens and vibrant flavors into your spread.
Potluck Recipes – Never stress about potlucks again with our collection of easy potluck recipes. Perfect for work parties, holiday gatherings, community events, or church picnics, these ideas are designed to feed a crowd of any size. Find recipes that are simple to prepare, easy to transport, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone!
Beyond these categories, we encourage you to explore our wider array of culinary creations. Check out our dedicated sections for copycat recipes (perfect for recreating restaurant favorites at home), delightful dessert recipes for every sweet craving, and our ever-popular CrockPot Recipes, offering effortless meals for busy days.
Stay connected and never miss a new recipe or culinary tip! Follow Tammilee Tips on MSN, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for all our latest updates, delicious posts, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into our kitchen.
Super Easy Marinated Olives Recipe
This Super Easy Marinated Olives Recipe is the perfect simple appetizer for football parties, New Year’s celebrations, holiday gatherings, or any day you’re craving a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
- 12 oz Black olives, drained
- ½ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 Tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Red Pepper chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients (drained olives, olive oil, basil, garlic, balsamic vinegar, red pepper flakes, and salt) in a covered dish and mix well, ensuring the olives are evenly coated.
- Cover the dish tightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to properly marinate. For best results, marinate for 4-24 hours.
- Before serving, stir the olives gently. You can let them come closer to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to enhance their flavor. Serve with appetizer picks or small tongs.
Kitchen Tools
- Large Mixing Bowl or Covered Dish
- Serving Bowl
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 117
Recipe originally shared September 11, 2013, updated on March 12, 2020.