Marinated Olives with Citrus and Herbs

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed olives
• 0.5 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 sprigs rosemary
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 2 cloves garlic
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds

Instructions

1. 1Rinse olives in cold water to remove excess brine.
2. 2Using a zester, gently zest the orange and lemon, ensuring to avoid the bitter white pith.
3. 3Crush the garlic cloves lightly with the flat side of a knife.
4. 4In a mixing bowl, combine the olives, extra virgin olive oil, orange and lemon zest, rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, crushed garlic, crushed red pepper, black pepper, and fennel seeds.
5. 5Mix gently until the olives are well coated with the oil and the herbs and spices are evenly distributed.
6. 6Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and marinate at room temperature for at least 2 hours. For deeper flavors, marinate in the refrigerator overnight, bringing the olives to room temperature before serving.
7. 7After marination, remove the garlic cloves and herb sprigs. They have served their purpose of infusing flavor.
8. 8Stir the mixture gently to redistribute the flavors.
9. 9Taste the olives and adjust the seasoning if necessary. The olives should have a balanced taste where no single flavor dominates.
10. 10Serve the marinated olives in a small plate, allowing the colors of the mixed olives, zest, and spices to be visible.
11. 11Garnish with a fresh sprig of rosemary or thyme for a touch of color and to hint at the flavors within.
12. 12Enjoy as a healthy and flavorful start to your Mediterranean meal.