Marinated Castelvetrano Olives

Marinated Castelvetrano Olives

A simple appetizer that feels like an upscale happy hour at home.

If you are a dirty martini lover or an olive lover, this recipe is going to speak your love language. These marinated Castelvetrano olives are bright, garlicky, a little spicy and unbelievably buttery. They taste like something you would order from your favorite date night spot, but they take less than ten minutes to throw together.

Serve them warm or chilled. Eat them right away or let them sit overnight for a deeper, richer flavor. Either way, this recipe turns a bowl of olives into a full moment.

Ingredients

• 1 jar Castelvetrano olives, drained

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper

• Pinch of flaky salt

Instructions

1. Prep the olives

Drain the Castelvetrano olives and place them in a mixing bowl. You can leave them whole or gently smash them with the back of a spoon to help them soak up more flavor.

2. Make the marinade

In a separate small bowl, stir together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, lemon zest, crushed red pepper and flaky salt until everything is well combined.

3. Toss and coat

Pour the marinade over the olives. Toss until every olive is coated in that garlicky, citrusy mixture.

4. Taste and adjust

Give one a quick taste. Add more lemon zest, red pepper or salt if you want a stronger flavor.

5. Serve or chill

Enjoy immediately for a bright and fresh flavor. For a deeper and more intense taste, cover and refrigerate overnight so the olives can soak in all the juices.

How to Serve

• Add to a charcuterie board for an instant upgrade

• Serve alongside a chilled dirty martini or glass of crisp white wine

• Pair with crusty bread for dipping into the leftover marinade

• Keep in the fridge for a ready to snack option that feels gourmet

These marinated Castelvetrano olives bring a touch of luxury to even the simplest night at home. If you make them, tag me so I can see your happy hour moment.