Save A vibrant and festive appetizer featuring a medley of marinated olives and creamy feta cubes, perfect for entertaining and holiday gatherings.
This recipe has become a holiday staple in my home, impressing guests with its bold flavors and simple assembly.
Ingredients
- Mixed Olives: 1½ cups mixed olives (green and black, pitted)
- Feta Cheese: 200 g feta cheese, cut into 1 cm cubes
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 3 tbsp
- Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp (freshly squeezed)
- Dried Oregano: 1 tsp
- Fresh Thyme Leaves: 1 tsp (optional)
- Garlic: 1 small clove, thinly sliced
- Red Pepper Flakes: ½ tsp (optional)
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Lemon Zest: Zest of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the mixed olives and feta cubes.
- Prepare Marinade:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme (if using), garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
- Mix:
- Pour the marinade over the olives and feta. Gently toss to coat evenly, being careful not to break up the feta.
- Marinate:
- Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Serve:
- Before serving, bring to room temperature. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and lemon zest. Toss gently and serve.
Save This dish brings my family together every holiday season, sparking joy and conversation around our table.
Notes
Try adding strips of roasted red pepper or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor. Serve with crusty bread or as part of a mezze platter. Substitute feta with marinated goat cheese if preferred.
Required Tools
Medium mixing bowl, small bowl, whisk or fork, sharp knife, cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180 per serving. Total Fat: 15 g. Carbohydrates: 3 g. Protein: 6 g.
Save This simple yet flavorful appetizer is a must-have for your next celebration or casual get-together.
Recipe FAQs
- → What types of olives work best for this mix?
Use a combination of green and black pitted olives for varied texture and flavor. Kalamata or Castelvetrano olives complement the creamy feta well.
- → Can I prepare the mix in advance?
Yes, marinating for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to develop. It can be refrigerated up to 4 hours before serving.
- → What variations can enhance the dish?
Adding roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes adds color and a sweet, tangy contrast to the olives and cheese.
- → How should this mix be served?
Bring to room temperature before serving and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or as part of a mezze platter.
- → Is this suitable for special diets?
This mix is vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. Check ingredients if you have specific allergies.