What is the Recipe About?
Marinated Olives and Feta is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your table.
This appetizer combines briny olives with creamy feta cheese, all infused with a blend of aromatic herbs, citrus, and olive oil. Perfect for entertaining or as a savory snack, this dish is sure to impress with its robust flavors and elegant presentation.
How to Serve?
Serve Marinated Olives and Feta in a beautiful bowl or on a platter, making sure to include some of the flavorful marinade.
Garnish with additional fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra touch of color and aroma. Pair this dish with a variety of breads such as crusty baguette slices, pita bread, or artisan crackers.
It’s perfect for a grazing board alongside other Mediterranean favorites like hummus, roasted red peppers, and grilled vegetables.
How to Pair?
Marinated Olives and Feta pairs wonderfully with a variety of wines and beverages. Serve it with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp rosé. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir or Chianti works well. It also complements craft beers, especially lighter ales or wheat beers.
For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with sparkling water with a hint of lemon or a refreshing iced herbal tea. The savory, tangy flavors of this dish make it a versatile addition to any dining experience.
Some Notes About the Recipe
- Olives: Use a mix of your favorite olives, such as Kalamata, green, or Castelvetrano. Make sure they are pitted for easy eating.
- Feta Cheese: Choose high-quality feta cheese, preferably in block form, as it holds up better in the marinade and has a richer flavor.
- Marinade: Combine extra virgin olive oil with freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, and a selection of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Preparation: Let the olives and feta marinate for at least a few hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to ensure even coating.
- Serving Tips: Serve the marinated olives and feta at room temperature to fully enjoy the flavors. Drizzle some of the marinade over the bread for added taste.
- Extras: For added flavor, include lemon zest, whole peppercorns, or even a few strips of roasted red pepper in the marinade.
Marinated Olives and Feta
Equipment
- Medium-sized mixing bowl
- Serving dish
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed olives
- 1/2 cup feta cheese - crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic - minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain the olives and add them to the mixing bowl.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the olives.
- Add the minced garlic, oregano, and thyme to the bowl.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the olives and feta.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss everything together gently until well combined.
- Let the olives and feta marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the marinated olives and feta in a serving dish and enjoy!