Spanish Cuisine
Marinated Olives with Citrus and Garlic
These marinated olives are the embodiment of the simplicity and brilliance of Spanish tapas, where just a few ingredients turn an ordinary product into an exquisite appetizer. The combination of olive tartness, fresh garlic aroma, and an explosive citrus note creates an incredibly harmonious and refreshing flavor profile. This recipe is perfect for those times when you need to quickly create the atmosphere of a Mediterranean feast, as it requires no complex cooking, just a little time for the flavors to meld. A bright, spicy, and slightly tangy accent that will decorate any table and be the best addition to an aperitif.
Dishday
Recipe overview
- Total time
- 10 min
- Prep
- 10 min
- Servings
- 6
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Cuisine
- Spanish Cuisine
Nutrition
per serving
- Calories
- 160 kcal
- Protein
- 1 g
- Fat
- 15 g
- Carbs
- 3 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Step by step
Method
- 01
Remove the zest from the orange and lemon using a vegetable p…
Remove the zest from the orange and lemon using a vegetable peeler or grater in long strips. Lightly crush the garlic with the side of a knife blade so it releases more aroma.
- 02
Place the olives in a clean glass jar, add the zest, garlic,…
Place the olives in a clean glass jar, add the zest, garlic, and herb sprigs. Pour olive oil over them until completely covered.
- 03
Add a splash of freshly squeezed orange juice for flavor bala…
Add a splash of freshly squeezed orange juice for flavor balance, seal the jar, and shake vigorously several times. Leave the olives to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, preferably overnight.
Dishday
Useful advice
Cooking tip
For marinating, choose large, high-quality olives (like Manzanilla or Gordal), preferably with the pit — they hold their texture and flavor better. If you want to add some piquancy, add a sprig of fresh rosemary or some crushed fennel seeds to the jar.
How to serve
Serve the olives at room temperature, placed in a small, attractive bowl along with some of the marinade. They pair wonderfully with meat platters, cheeses, or simply serve as a standalone snack with a glass of sherry.
How to store
Olives can be kept in the refrigerator in a sterile, sealed jar for up to 1 week. Each day of marinating makes them even more aromatic as the garlic and citrus fully release their flavor.
Note
Do not discard the marinade after the olives are gone: this fragrant oil with garlic and herbs makes an excellent dressing for fresh vegetable salads.
