Lemon-Marinated Olives

These Lemon marinated olives are delicious, easy and elegant party pleaser. When it comes to appetizers, few things are loved as a bowl of flavorful olives. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, putting together a charcuterie board, or simply craving a snack, lemon-marinated olives are a perfect choice. With their bright citrus notes, herby aroma, and a hint of garlic, these marinated olives are as easy to make as they are delicious.

Why Make Lemon-Marinated Olives?

Marinated olives are more than just an appetizer—they’re a celebration of bold Mediterranean flavors. The briny richness of olives paired with the zesty brightness of lemon creates a harmonious blend that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Here are just a few reasons to love this recipe:

• Effortless Elegance: Despite requiring minimal prep, these olives look and taste gourmet.
• Customizable: You can mix and match your favorite herbs, spices, and olive varieties to make the recipe your own.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them ahead of time and let the flavors develop overnight—they’ll be even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make lemon-marinated olives, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:

• Olives: Choose your favorites! A mix of green and black olives adds variety in both flavor and appearance.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to that bright, tangy flavor.
• Garlic: Thin slices of garlic add a subtle kick.
• Herbs: Oregano and parsley are my favorite classic choices, but feel free to experiment with thyme or rosemary.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This ties everything together, adding a luscious texture and depth of flavor.
• Maple syrup: Adds a slightly sweet flavor to the marinade
• Balsamic vinegar : Optional but brings a different kind of acidity to the marinade
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): A pinch of heat for those who like it spicy

How to Serve Lemon-Marinated Olives

Lemon-marinated olives are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

• On a charcuterie board with cheeses, cured meats, and crackers.
• As part of a mezze platter alongside hummus, pita bread, and roasted vegetables.
• Tossed into salads or pasta for a burst of flavor.
• Simply on their own with a glass of wine or your favorite cocktail.

Check out more recipes:

Spicy Cauliflower Bites

Beetroot Bean Burgers

Tabbouleh Salad

Marinated Tomatoes

Lemon-Marinated Olives

tastysimplyvegan

These Lemon marinated olives are delicious, easy and elegant party pleaser. When it comes to appetizers, few things are loved as a bowl of flavorful olives. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, putting together a charcuterie board, or simply craving a snack, lemon-marinated olives are a perfect choice. With their bright citrus notes, herby aroma, and a hint of garlic, these marinated olives are as easy to make as they are delicious.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Course Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup mixed olives (green, black, kalamata)
• 1 lemon zest and juice
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp chili flakes
• ¼ tsp salt

Instructions

 

• If your olives are very salty, rinse them briefly under cold water and pat them dry. Add to a small bowl.
• Combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, garlic, olive oil, parsley,oregano, red pepper flakes (if using) and a pinch of salt.
• Mix the olives with the marinade evenly. Transfer the olives and marinade to a jar or airtight container. Let them marinate for at least 1-2 hours at room temperature, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
• Allow the olives to come to room temperature before serving. Garnish with a bit of extra lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired.

Keyword easy, garlic, lemon, olive oil, olives, plant based, snack, vegan