How to store olives

Delicious recipe for marinated olives in extra virgin olive oil

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Infusion time: 3 days
Number of servings: 1 jar (approximately 500g of olives)

Introduction
Marinated olives in olive oil are a delicacy that not only complements appetizer platters but also brings a touch of sunshine and flavor to your table. This recipe, taken from a good Greek friend, is a perfect combination of simple yet aromatic ingredients that transform ordinary olives into a true explosion of taste.

The history of olives takes us back to ancient times, when these fruits were valued not only for their taste but also for their nutritional properties. Olives are an excellent source of healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants, and extra virgin olive oil is considered a superfood, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids that protect the heart.

Ingredients
- 500g small red olives in brine (unpreserved)
- 200ml extra virgin olive oil
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1-2 hot peppers (or 1 teaspoon chili paste)
- 2-3 coriander seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig of rosemary
- 1 sprig of thyme
- Peppercorns (mix: red, white, green, and black)

Step-by-step preparation
1. Preparing the olives
Start by washing the olives well under cold running water. It is important to remove excess salt from the brine so that the flavors can integrate perfectly. Place the olives in a bowl and let them drain for 10-15 minutes.

2. Preparing the aromatic mixture
In a container, combine the extra virgin olive oil with the chopped garlic, hot pepper (finely chopped or chili paste), coriander seeds, bay leaf, rosemary, and thyme. This mixture will add an intense and deep flavor to your olives.

3. Combining the ingredients
In a sterilized jar (preferably glass), add the drained olives and the aromatic oil mixture. Make sure the olives are completely covered with oil. If necessary, you can add a little more oil to ensure they are fully submerged.

4. Infusing the flavors
Close the jar with a lid and leave it in a cool place, away from direct sunlight. After 3 days, the flavors will combine, and the olives will acquire an exceptional taste. It is important to gently stir them each day to help distribute the flavors.

5. Serving
After the 3 days of infusion, the olives are ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them as an appetizer alongside cheeses, fresh vegetables, or even on a toast. The remaining oil in the jar is perfect for adding a splash of flavor to your favorite salads.

Useful tips
- Choosing olives: Opt for small red olives that have been brined, as they have a better texture and a more intense flavor. You can find olives in bulk, and their shelf life is usually 3 days, so make sure to use them fresh.

- Customizing the recipe: Feel free to experiment with other herbs, such as oregano or basil, to give a personal touch to your olives. You can also add a little lemon juice for a fresher taste.

- Frequently asked questions:
1. *Can I use green olives?* - Of course! Green olives will provide a slightly different but delicious flavor.
2. *How long can I keep the marinated olives?* - If stored in oil, the olives can be consumed within a month.

- Calories and nutritional benefits: Olives are rich in healthy fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants. A serving of 100g of olives contains approximately 115 calories, making them a healthy choice for snacks.

Possible variations
For a more exotic version, you can add slices of orange or lemon, which bring a note of acidity and freshness. You can also experiment with different types of pepper or even other spices, such as cumin or smoked paprika.

Personal story
This recipe reminds me of vacations spent by the sea, where the sun shone, and the aromas of olives filled the air. Together with my friends, we enjoyed freshly prepared olives, alongside feta cheese and a bottle of refreshing white wine. This recipe is not just about cooking; it is about bringing people together and creating beautiful memories.

I hope this recipe for marinated olives in olive oil will bring you the same moments of joy and flavor in every bite! Enjoy!